Christmas wedding perfection at Rustic Manor

Snow does not materialize for Christmas on command. Just ask the millions of skiers who eagerly look to the sky each winter.Not a snowflake was in sight when we met Mary and Mike last summer to talk about filming their wedding ceremony at St. Charles Catholic Church and reception at Rustic Manor 1848. The Hoyt Park Beer Garden where we met was drenched in sunshine, but Mary and Mike had snowflakes in their eyes as they described the event they were planning just two days before Christmas.They were even planning some portraits on snowshoes to reflect their love of the outdoors, and it was easy to see that these two also shared a deep commitment to each other.We couldn’t wait to film as their wedding approached, because we have so few opportunities to capture weddings in winter.And wedding portraits in snowshoes? Where do we sign up???Just weeks before the big event, Mother Nature blessed Wisconsin with a thick blanket of snow, exactly what Mary and Mike had ordered. But the forecast for their wedding day called for light flurries. The flat overcast skies only spit out the faintest flakes during portraits at Rustic Manor before the early evening ceremony.And while the frigid temperatures challenged all, the entire wedding party was game to frolic outside. And true to form, Mary and Mike strapped on wedding-present snowshoes for an amazing set of portraits and video under the soaring and majestic Rustic Manor “chandelier” tree.Then, just as Mary and Mike hoped for, a little Christmas magic occurred.As everyone packed up to drive to the church and the light began to fade, something in the skies changed. Enormous flakes began falling, so thickly and quickly that it seemed to be raining snow. We arrived at the church first, and as the bridal party van pulled up, I asked Mary and Mike if they were game to have one last, quiet moment in the beautiful snow before they said their vow.Without hesitation, without worrying about her hair or makeup, Mary said: Absolutely.And as soon as they took two steps into the swirling white, I knew this was their “moment.”And it’s why that footage leads their Sneak Peek. Swirling, amazing snow for an equally amazing couple.Congrats to Mary and Mike, who were surrounded by adoring family, a top-notch wedding party (who happily tromped through slush for them!), and a ton of caring friends who helped get the rafters of Rustic Manor rocking!Cheers,CindyThanks to the pros who helped Mary and Mike realize their winter wonderland wedding!Cinematography: Sweet Pea CinemaPhotography: The Paper Elephant (Thanks Colleen and Bill!)Venue: Rustic Manor 1848Church: St. Charles Catholic ChurchBride’s dress: Casablanca from Savvy BrideBride’s Shoes: Badgley MischkaBridesmaid Dresses: Bill LevkoffGroom’s Tux: Vera Wang Black from Jos A. BankHair/Make-up: Merle Norman SalonFlorist: Jane Kelly FloralDJ: All Star MusicInvitations: Coqui Paperie & GiftsTransportation: Cruise-A-PaloozaCatering: Saz’s CateringDessert: A Little Slice of HeavenDance Instructor: Social Style