I will never forget the feeling of listening to Brittney and Nathan exchange vows as thunder rumbled in the distance. There was something so beautiful and so cozy-feeling about being in the church surrounded by all of their family and friends knowing that whatever was happening outside didn’t change the fact that these two were becoming husband and wife. Brittney and Nathan celebrated their Vernon Vineyards Wedding on what would end up being the rainiest day in history in the area!

When we arrived at St. Patrick’s Church, Brittney and her bridal crew were in the midst of getting ready. What immediately stuck out to me about the family and friends that surrounded Brittney and Nathan on their wedding day was their willingness to do whatever needed to be done to help these two have an amazing day. There seriously couldn’t have been a better crew supporting them and celebrating them on their wedding day!

Nathan, like many grooms on the wedding day, was feeling anxious to see Brittney. Sometimes emotions can surprise you on important days, and though Nathan is usually relaxed and down to earth, the importance of this day brought out a few feelings of nervousness. Thankfully, Nathan and Brittney had chosen to do a first look with each other before the ceremony. We were blessed with a break in the rain and got to do their first look outside the church.

As Brittney and Nathan stood back to back reading letters from each other, Nathan held back tears and Brittney could not stop smiling! Finally, they turned around and saw each other. As Brittney beamed up at Nathan, his feelings of anxiousness finally passed and he could fully experience the joy of seeing his bride. After a lot of hugging, Nathan making Brittney spin around like a princess, and the wiping away of a few tears, we had just enough time to capture portraits of the two before the rain started again. I absolutely loved catching all the groomsmen cheering them on from the church doors during their portrait session, like I said, they have the best family and friends!

We often tell our couples that choosing to do a first look does not minimize the emotional experience at the ceremony, and Brittney and Nathan’s wedding is the perfect example of that! Despite the fact that these two had already spent time together before the ceremony, they both were holding back tears as Brittney walked with her dad down the aisle to Nathan. There is just something so special and monumental about that moment!

The rain that fell during the ceremony had passed once we were finished with portraits at the church. It was time to travel to Vernon Vineyards, where Nathan and Brittney had their reception. Our portrait time at the vineyards was something so unique, it will be hard to top it! Huge storms were passing to the north of the venue, and the clouds were almost black with thunder! However, we were able to stay dry during the wedding party and bride and groom portraits! I’ve never experienced a wedding day where our portrait time at 3:00 pm was darker than sunset portraits at 7:30 pm, but everything worked out perfectly!

We went inside the venue to capture details, just in time for it to start raining again! Honestly, I cannot believe how we lucked out with the timing on this wedding day!! The guests stayed cozy inside the venue as we listened to meaningful speeches from family members and the wedding party. Both Brittney and Nathan’s families do not shy away from showing love and emotion, and these speeches all pointed out how special Brittney and Nathan’s love is.

Another thing neither of these families shies away from is having a good time- and I can assure you this venue has never seen a grand march or dance like Brittney and Nathan’s! We had one last chance to capture Brittney and Nathan near sunset, and then they spent the rest of their night celebrating on the dance floor.

Cody and I loved each moment of this day, and we know many special people were looking down on Nathan and Brittney during this day and keeping us safe from the rain showers. Enjoy our favorite images from their wedding day!

Brittney and Nathan, Cody and I were honored to capture your beautiful wedding day. We have no doubt that your love will continue to grow stronger as you continue on this new adventure of marriage. Lean on those around you who love you and will never stop supporting you. Continue to have fun together and put each other first. We cannot wait to see what the future has in store for you both!

To see Brittney and Nathan’s La Crosse, Wisconsin Engagement Session, click here! 
To view other Andrea and Cody weddings, click here! 

Thank you to the incredible vendors who made Brittney and Nathan’s day possible.

Church: St. Patrick’s Catholic Church

Venue: Vernon Vineyards

Videographer: BVisions Media 

Florist: Cindy’s Wedding Designs 

Dresses and Tuxes: The Wedding Tree

Cake: Julie Phillips

DJ: Just-Us Wedding Events & Entertainment 

Makeup: Makeup by Brooke Weber

Hair: Kristi Ferries