Claire & Jamie | October 5, 2025 | Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Claire and Jamie’s wedding was simple in the best way. Intimate, unfussy, and grounded in the things they love most—good food, good drinks, and the people who’ve known them for years. Held at South Shore Pavilion. Their wedding felt less like a big event and more like one of the many relaxed gatherings they love to host—just with vows, a tiara and Lake Michigan in the background.

A Lakefront Setting That Needed Very Little

South Shore Pavilion offered exactly what Claire and Jamieson were looking for: a straightforward, beautiful lakefront setting that didn’t require much dressing up. The ceremony took place in the second story of the venue, overlooking Lake Michigan, with the water and fall light doing most of the work.

A Ceremony Led by a Friend

The ceremony was officiated by Alex, a longtime friend they both worked with for years. Keeping things simple, he led the ceremony before Claire and Jamieson shared their vows—no extra readings, no added layers, just the words that mattered most.

Afterward, guests gathered for a casual bubbles toast, setting the tone for a celebration that felt warm, easy, and unpretentious.

From Coworkers to More Than a Decade Together

These two met working at a pizza restaurant and spent over a decade as friends before getting married. Jamie proposed after a hike in their favorite park, just the two of them sitting and looking at Lake Michigan. So perfect.

DIY Everything

To stay on budget—and because they genuinely enjoy it—Claire and Jamie sourced plates, linens, and décor themselves. They hit antique stores and estate sales, rummaged through stacks of china to find pieces they loved. I adored the dainty mis-matched vintage plates.

Flowers came from Claire's garden and Jamie's mom's yard. Bright, summery, natural. Jamie built the wooden ceremony backdrop. Claire made little paper decorations using leftover invitation paper. Nothing wasted.

The Food

pictured: the bride + groom and the owners and staff from GoodKind. Claire made the little strings of paper decorations using leftover invite paper.

With years in the service industry between them, food and drink were huge. Claire's a wine buyer and educator, so she curated the drink selection. Their friends at Goodkind created dinner—generous and unfussy, the kind of meal meant to be shared. Lisa (chef and co-owner) even topped an entree with fresh arugula from Claire's garden!

Portraits After Dinner

After dinner, Claire and Jamie snuck away for a few lakefront portraits.

One of their only quiet moments of the day. I kept my distance and let them soak it in.

What Made It Work

Claire and Jamie's wedding was proof that you can have a heartfelt wedding without all of the extras. A simple ceremony, a good meal, and a room full of people who know you well. That was enough.