Sarah & Cole | November 8, 2025 | Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Sarah and Cole got married at The Rivulet in downtown Milwaukee—a city they've called home for years. The ceremony and reception both happened onsite, surrounded by longtime friends and the people who've been part of their story since college.

How They Met

Sarah and Cole met freshman year during Welcome Week at Marquette and realized they lived one floor apart. They were friends first, started dating sophomore year, and spent the next several years building a life together in downtown Milwaukee.

Cole proposed in October, the night before they moved into their first home. He asked in their apartment—just the two of them, in the same place they'd shared for five years.

The Venue

The Rivulet had everything they wanted—warm wood, a grand staircase, and a location right on the Milwaukee River. The space spoke for itself, so décor stayed simple: white florals with greenery, a plant wall behind the sweetheart table, and lots of twinkling lights.

Getting Ready & A First Look Downtown

The day began with relaxed getting-ready photos, followed by individual portraits and a first look. Sarah and Cole chose to exchange vows. privately by the river. It was such a special moment, Even the photographer was holding back tears.

Private Vows

One full-circle moment: was that their first look took place on the Riverwalk in the exact spot where they’d taken their engagement photos with Jill just a year earlier!

Milwaukee Style Wedding Portraits

Sarah + Cole Wedding at the Rivulet, Milwaukee. Super8 Video

After private vows, the gang headed out to take scenic photos on the Marquette campus and near the lake— capturing the skyline and the city they’ve called home for so long.

A Ceremony on the Staircase

Their ceremony took place on The Rivulet’s grand staircase, officiated by one of their close friends. Guests were seated facing the aisle, with family lining both sides—bringing everyone closer to the moment. Such a unique layout for a wedding!

Portraits Along the River

After the ceremony, Sarah and Cole stepped away briefly for couple portraits along the Riverwalk.

Dinner Stations, Desserts, and Dancing

Food played a big role in the evening, with station-style dining reflecting Sarah and Cole’s shared love of trying different cuisines. A dessert table followed—because, as Sarah says, sweets were non-negotiable.

Dancing!

The dance floor filled quickly and stayed packed late into the night.

The Random Dog

One of the most memorable moments? A dog wandered into their first look. Totally unplanned, and it became one of their favorite memories. The woman came back later with champagne for them!

What Mattered

Mishaps came and went, but what they remember is the joy, the laughter, and getting married in the city where their story began.

The Dream Team:

Venue & DJ: The Rivulet
Officiant: Christopher Holdway
Florals: Belle Fiori
Food: Chef Jack's Catering
Dessert: Mili Wonka Treats
Dress & Suit: White Dress Bridal Boutique, Men's Wearhouse
Hair & Makeup: JJ Bridal Artistry
Transportation: Milwaukee Food Tours
Photos: Me! Photography By Jill Emmer