A Riverside Garden Wedding at Urban Ecology Center
Chelsea & Jared | June 14, 2025 | Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Chelsea and Jared's wedding day was so much fun. Like, genuinely one of those days where you just can't stop smiling.
We stared with getting ready photos at the “Milwaukee Mansion” AirBnb.
Perfect June Day For A Stroll
From there we strolled over to Juneau Park. The joy was contagious and we met quite a few folks on our walk!
A High Noon gift from some college kids. So Milwaukee!
First Look by the Lake
Their first look took place at Juneau Park. They had their bridal party, families and their sweet pup meet us there for some quick pre-ceremony pics.
Next we headed to their ceremony and reception site: Urban Ecology Center - Riverside Park.
A Formal Garden Party
Chelsea described the dress code as “formal garden party,” and it translated beautifully.
Bridesmaids wore French blue chiffon. The flower girls and flower ladies carried variations of blue prints and satin. Jared stood apart in charcoal, the groomsmen in navy.
The palette was so pretty and cohesive! Blue against the green background.
A Ceremony Led by Family
This wedding had a lot of fun fashion!
Jared’s brother led the ceremony, with a couple of readings woven in. Chelsea and Jared stood outside beneath the trees, guests seated close around them.
The beautiful setting did most of the work — green in every direction, late afternoon light settling in.
Here’s a little photographer secret: if you stick your tongue out at the sweet flower girl, there’s a 99% chance she will do the same back! haha.
Reception Right Next Door
Cute little seed packets were used for their Garden-themed seating chart, topped with a sign that said “Please be seeded”
The groom built their head table from scratch
The Groom wanted his favorite homemade pie
And the Bride wanted cake. So they had both!
The his-and-hers specialty cocktails of the night were Aperol Spritzers and Manhattans
Dinner and Speeches
Taking Full Advantage of The Charming Venue
You can just about slide right into your dinner seat!
coolest hidden door! perfect spot for the Bride to sneak away and take a breather when needed.
Sunset Photos
As the evening stretched toward sunset, we stepped outside. The light was soft and low.
Dance Floor Shenanigans
The dance floor was a whole thing. Full energy, zero inhibitions, everyone in. Exactly how a wedding night should end.
Final Thoughts:
Chelsea and Jared just let the day be what it was—and what it was, was really, really good.
Dream Team
Venue: @urbanecologycenter
Planner: @heatherfarrevents
Photos: me! @jillemmer
Catering: @tallguyandagrill
Dessert: @buckleysmke, @peter_sciortino_bakery
Hair: @hairbyannaaustin
DJ: @djgoosemke
