Dani & Sam's Wedding at The Rivulet on the Riverwalk (with Drag Queens)!
Getting married in Milwaukee is always a blast — this city has such a mix of vintage charm and modern energy. The vintage and modern blend is especially evident in the Historic Third Ward! Dani & Sam hosted their wedding celebration at The Rivulet, located inside the historical Renaissance Building, and literally right on the Third Ward Riverwalk (it’s right next to those iconic white spirally walking steps you have definitely seen before).
Check out their wedding reels: Part 1 & Part 2 & Drag Queens
To be clear, The Rivulet 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 the river and skyline views of Milwaukee, we were able to include many bushes and trees in our wedding photos. Once the wedding party was finished, it was time to head inside for the ceremony, filled with lots of happy tears and celebration.
At the reception, everything was lovely, with a lot of delicious food, cocktails, and 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 typewriter, and a line quickly formed, patiently waiting for their turns. She would spend a minute talking with each person and then compose an original poem for them. 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!
Wedding Team:
The Wedding Team:
Photographer: ME!
Officiant: Daniel Starr
Day Of Coordinator: Brandon Herr // @bherrmke
Venue: Black Swan Riverwalk
Dani’s Dress: Miss Ruby Boutique
Brand:
Shoes
Dani’s Earrings: Untamed Petals
Sam’s Bridal outfit: Strike Bridal Bar
Brand:
Shoes:
Sam’s Earrings: Olive & Piper
MUA: @makeupbyeliseniess, @beautybybrooketheissen
Hair: @dyemydarlingmke, @hairbymatthewscott, @corythecutter
Flower People: Azazi
Dessert: The Cake Lady
Food vendor: Tuscan Hall
Late Night Snack: Ian’s Pizza
Florist: Belle Fiori
Ceremony music: Innocenti Strings
Band / DJ: Double Platinum DJ
Bar Service: Bartenders on the Go
Typewriter Poet: Anja Notanja Sieger // @anjanotanja