A Beautiful Spring Wedding at Lilydale
On the last weekend of May, I had the honor of kicking off my 2026 wedding season by photographing Lindsey and Tyler’s wedding at Lilydale Wedding & Event Venue in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin, just outside of Eau Claire. As an Eau Claire wedding photographer, I absolutely love shooting weddings at Lilydale because there are so many beautiful locations for portraits throughout the property.
Lindsey and Tyler were gifted by the weather with a gorgeous spring day. As any Wisconsin resident knows, late May weather can be unpredictable, but we couldn’t have asked for better conditions. While the humidity crept in for a little while, a light breeze kept everyone comfortable. Best of all, we had sunshine all day long and not a drop of rain.
An Incredible Wedding Party
One of the things that stood out most about this wedding was the incredible bridal party. Lindsey and Tyler had seven attendants on each side, along with two ushers. While some photographers might feel intimidated by a large wedding party, I was genuinely excited about this group. Every single person brought so much joy and energy to the day. They were constantly offering to help, making sure things ran smoothly, and celebrating their friends every step of the way.
At one point, I recruited a few of the groomsmen to help move chairs to one of our portrait locations. We ended up incorporating them into some of the group photos, creating a variety of standing and seated combinations rather than one long line of people. I absolutely loved how those portraits turned out, and you’ll find some of my favorites below.
Private Vows Without a First Look
Lindsey and Tyler exchanged vows during a beautiful outdoor ceremony on the Lilydale property. One of my favorite parts of their day was the way they handled their private vows. They wanted to keep the tradition of seeing each other for the first time as Lindsey walked down the aisle, but they also wanted a private moment together before the ceremony.
To make that happen, they exchanged private vows while carefully avoiding seeing one another. They were able to hold hands, share meaningful words, and enjoy a quiet moment together while still preserving the first-look experience they had always envisioned. It was the perfect balance of intimacy and tradition.
As photographers, we often talk about the benefits of a first look because it can make certain parts of the wedding day timeline more efficient. However, I firmly believe that every couple should choose the option that feels right for them. Lindsey and Tyler created a plan that perfectly reflected what they wanted, and it was incredibly special to witness.
A Perfect Day for Lindsey and Tyler
I absolutely loved being a part of this wedding day. From the thoughtful personal touches they added throughout this beautiful Chippewa Falls wedding venue to the amazing family and friends who surrounded them, every part of the celebration felt full of love and joy.
Lilydale continues to be one of my favorite places to photograph weddings because it offers so many opportunities for beautiful portraits while still feeling intimate and welcoming for couples and their guests.
Lindsey and Tyler, thank you for trusting me to capture such an important day in your lives. Your wedding was beautiful, and I have no doubt your marriage will be even more beautiful. Enjoy this sneak peek from your unforgettable day.
Wedding Vendor Team
Venue & Reception
Lilydale Wedding & Event Venue
https://www.lilydalewi.com
Wedding Coordinator
Zane Weddings
https://www.zaneweddings.com/
Wedding Dress
Wedding Shoppe – St. Paul, Minnesota
https://www.weddingshoppeinc.com
Florist (Family Friend)
DJ & Entertainment
Out of This World DJ – James Porter
djastreaux@gmail.com
Cake
Blondie’s Bake Shop
https://www.blondiesbakeshop.com
Catering
FatBoy’s Catering – Bloomer, Wisconsin
https://www.fatboyscateringllc.com
Bridesmaid Dresses
Kennedy Blue
https://www.kennedyblue.com
Groom & Groomsmen Attire
Men’s Wearhouse
https://www.menswearhouse.com
