Dani & Sam's Black Swan Riverwalk MKE Wedding (with Drag Queens)!

WeddingsLGBTQ

Feb 28

Getting married in Milwaukee is a fantastic experience. Every corner of our great city is full of both vintage and modern treasures and the Historic Third Ward is no exception. Dani & Sam hosted their wedding celebration at Black Swan’s Riverwalk locations - located literally right on the Third Ward Riverwalk (its is right next to those iconic white spirally walking steps you have definitely seen before). This venue leans in to “its historically elegant and sophisticated ambiance” to feature a space that’s “rich in texture (from the web).”

Check out their wedding reels: **Part** 1 & **Part 2** & **Drag Queens**

To be clear, Black Swan Riverwalk delivers on its aspirations - their space feels fully vintage Milwaukee and also modern and accessible - and as previously mentioned - the location is perfect. In addition to its Riverwalk-connected outdoor party space, the inside of the venue has a stunning staircase, lots of windows, and a very high-end and romantic feel. Throw in some candlelight, and it really is dreamy.

Sam & Dani both got ready in separate suites at the Cambria Hotel - just a short walk/drive from their venue. It was super fun to see each of them become “brides” and their wedding party was a blast all day.

Once they were all decked out - they met up on the riverwalk for their first look - which was full of laughter and joy and lots of lovely spies (their family was all peeking as it transpired). With everyone assembled, we used the Riverwalk for photos of the couple and the wedding party. In addition to river and skyline views of Milwaukee, many bushes and trees could be included in our wedding photo. Once we had the wedding party finished, it was time to head inside for the ceremony and lots of happy tears and celebration.

At the reception - everything was lovely, and there was a lot of delicious food, cocktails, and so many heartfelt toasts. There were two special aspects that I can’t wait to tell you about.

Drag Queens. Sam & Dani invited their favorite Milwaukee Drag Queens to perform, which was so unbelievably cool. Drag Queens bring so much energy and joy to the right wedding celebration. This is my 4th wedding featuring them; it has been such a hit each time! Thanks for all the joy, Dita Von, Chanel, and Marbella!
Typewriter Poet! This was my first experience witnessing a typewriter poet in action at a wedding reception. Anja Notanja Sieger set up her typewriting, and a line quickly formed, patiently waiting for their turns. She would spend a minute talking with each person and then compose them an original poem. MANY people cried as they read them, but you know - the good sort of tears. It was fantastic, and I hope it becomes a thing!

My favorite part of the wedding day was spending time with the couple! We snuck out of the reception for a final set of nighttime photos with the city lights. Sam and Dani are fabulous, and I wish them all the love, laughter, and moments that matter for years to come!

There is more to see: Engagement Session // Wedding Reels: Part 1 & Part 2 & Drag Queens

*Scroll to the bottom for all the vendor details!