Hometown is Where the Heart Is

by Carolyn Hartnett

 

Alissa and Aaron grew up in the same small, farming town. Although their paths crossed on several occasions, it wasn’t until after college that fate brought the two together. When Alissa moved to Milwaukee, she connected with Aaron, and they fell in love. On November 5, 2016, the hometown sweethearts tied the knot.

 

Especially Us

Aaron: Alissa gives the best hugs in the world. The first time she hugged me, it felt like we had known each other our whole lives. I always say that hug felt like “home.”

Intimate Proposal

I walked into our living room and saw a bunch of roses and champagne set on ice. Aaron told me how much he loves me, and asked me to marry him. Later that night, we celebrated at Flannery’s — the location of our first date — at a surprise engagement party with both families.

 

Key Resources

Aaron’s mother, an interior decorator, created the centerpieces and several décor items. Also, Alissa’s friend and bridesmaid, Danielle, is a graphic artist and designed the programs.

Wedding Style

Classic, elegant city wedding, accented by a champagne, gold and ivory color palette. A subtle sparkle shone through on many aspects of the wedding day. The bridesmaid dresses were an elegant champagne gold color that set the tone for the décor. Linens on the cake table, gift card table and guest book table were also champagne with sequin beading.

Worth Every Penny

The Photography & Videography: “We had such great vendors, and the pictures and video are something that we will cherish for years to come. Now we can look back on our wedding day and remember every detail.”

The Venue: “The décor in the Hilton’s Empire room fit perfectly with our theme. It looked like a ballroom straight out of the White House!”

The DJ: “Our DJ absolutely KILLED it. He kept the party going from the first dance until midnight. Sound by Design is the best!”

Bridal Ensemble

Gown: Trumpet style with a combination of lace and beading. Veil: Classic, elegant cathedral veil with a double layer. Shoes: Badgley Mischka. Headpiece: Beaded headband for the reception. Jewelry: Beautiful, subtle accessories to pair with Alissa’s glamorous dress, veil and headpiece. A pearl bracelet from Alissa’s godmother, and Stella and Dot earrings.

The Ceremony

Aaron: I have to admit, I really did not think that I would cry at the wedding, but Alissa looked absolutely beautiful walking down the aisle. Between that and having all of the most important people in our lives there for our wedding day, it was definitely an emotional moment for me.

Personal Touch

Alissa’s grandparents have won the ‘generations dance’ at every wedding for years. “It’s become a tradition now for our family on my mom’s side to do the generations dance at our weddings and watch them win every time. They won at our wedding with 66 years of marriage!”

Funny Moments

Melanie, a bridesmaid, donned an old Ray Allen Bucks jersey halfway through her speech. Everyone loved it!

 

Advice To Future Brides

There is only so much you can do to prepare, and some things can only be done last minute. This can be stressful at times, but try your best to stay organized, and you will remember everything you need to do. Also, keep a little bit of everything after the wedding. I held onto one of almost everything, even our napkins, in our keepsake box. Otherwise, those little details could be easily forgotten over time. Years from now, you will love looking back on it all!

Advice For Couples

Marriage is a major life transition. You are creating a new family with your spouse, but also want to maintain some of your own independence. Make sure to always put each other at the top of your priority list.