2020 was an unprecedented time for couples searching for love, with virtual connections and quarantine dates replacing (traditional) methods for beginning a relationship. Mallory & Ryan’s love story began somewhere in the middle, with their first meeting on Milwaukee’s East Side. They clicked instantly, finding meaningful connection through their love of walking along the lakefront, cooking meals together at home, and listening to their favorite songs on vinyl.
Over the next few years, they often spent weekends visiting Ryan’s family in the Driftless Area, which began to feel like a home away from home–so much so that Mallory & Ryan eventually made the move for good. They especially love the rolling hills, quiet walking trails, hiking, and the small-town feel. Mallory joyfully recalled Ryan’s proposal, writing, “On one of our hikes, I was looking for rocks when Ryan asked, “Mallory, what about this rock?” I turned around to find Ryan on one knee, holding out a ring, and beginning to propose. Such an exciting “yes!”‘
Willow & Oak at Hillsboro Brewing Company was the launching point when planning their dream wedding. Located on the second floor of the brewery, Willow & Oak offers a beautiful, private space for up to 400 guests for a reception, or 200 for a combined ceremony and reception. The venue also offers delicious catering and, while located in the Driftless region, was still accessible for Mallory & Ryan’s guests.
When it came to meeting and narrowing down vendors, the couple also found WedPlan La Crosse to be a great resource, writing,
“[WedPlan La Crosse] helped us discover vendors and ideas. We also leaned on our vendors for recommendations; they are so well connected and were helpful in recommending other trusted professionals.”
Mallory said yes to an ethereal, romantic gown from Marah’s Bridal. The beautiful, off-the-shoulder dress featured a wrapped bodice, A-line silhouette, and luxe (brocade) fabric draping into an elegant, full train. She accessorized with a cathedral-length tulle veil at varying times throughout the day, for the ceremony and couple portraits.
Su Casa Salon & Bridal Suite and Makeup by Jaide Johnson kept hair and makeup simple, sweet, and refined. Mallory and her bridesmaids wore their hair in loose waves, in varying updos or half-up styles, often with loose, face-framing pieces. Mallory’s bridal makeup included shimmering pink eyeshadow, soft eyeliner, blush cheeks, and a natural lip.
Sage green, forest green, white, peach, and varying shades of pink encompassed the couple’s garden-inspired color palette. Florist Pennycress Studio brought pops of color to life in airy, meadow-inspired floral arrangements. Mallory and her bridesmaids carried bouquets consisting of peach ranunculus, blush garden roses, zinnia, cosmos, white sweet peas, and clusters of soft pink stock flowers, further texturized with chamomile and Queen Anne’s lace.
Additional greenery and cascading green amaranthus (added) in the floral décor, most notably in the ceremony backdrop and table arrangements, ranging from bud vases to mini bouquets.
The couple wed in an indoor ceremony framed by florals, natural light, and a timeless brick backdrop. Right after the ceremony, Mallory and Ryan stepped away for a private moment. Mallory reflected, “It was a chance to soak in the moment and be fully present with each other. During that time, we shared our personal vows with just the two of us. It was intimate, emotional, and one of the most meaningful parts of our wedding.”
Green was the theme for menswear, with Ryan wearing a pinstripe check sage suit with a matching vest, while his groomsmen wore solid forest green. They otherwise matched with white undershirts, brown dress shoes, floral boutonnieres, and floral-patterned ties.
Boldly completing the wedding party, Mallory’s bridesmaids wore unique, floor-length dresses in varying textures, shades of pink and yes–patterns! The final group photos were full of personality while remaining cohesive.
The couple’s dog, Arthur, also briefly joined for portraits, wearing the cutest bow-tie collar.
Mallory & Ryan’s biggest advice for wedding planning? Enjoy the planning process and really take in your wedding day. They made sure to document small moments leading up to their wedding, like organizing and packing, as well as big decisions like fashion and invitations.
Their wedding planning process was also a team effort, with the couple jokingly referring to the day as their “WE-dding.” They made time to be present with one another, grow as a couple, and overcome obstacles together, which helped them stay grounded and feel secure.
Fine art photographer Haley Hundt Photography shined in the natural light both inside and outside the venue. Her work focused on honest connection, capturing both posed and candid moments, expressions, and especially joy. Sunset portraits were a must, framed against the Driftless backdrops that Mallory & Ryan couple cherish so deeply.
Are you a La Crosse couple or photographer with a wedding you’d love to share? WedPlan is always looking for beautiful local celebrations to feature on our blog, social media, and in our annual publication. Visit our submissions tab to help inspire other couples planning their big day in the La Crosse area.
