Elizabeth and Jake's elegant La Crosse wedding at Cappella Weddings & Events was filled with timeless details, romantic florals, and heartfelt moments. From a classic church ceremony to a joyful downtown celebration, their day reflected love, style, and meaningful personal touches.
When Elizabeth & Jake first met in college, they knew it was a perfect match. They fell deeper in love over the next two years while traveling, enjoying new cuisine (though nothing compares to the classic Midwestern fish fry and cheese curds!), and spoiling their two-year-old dog, Tater. Jake proposed during a summer getaway to the mountains of Montana, getting down on one knee beside Flathead Lake in Bigfork.
The venue and the photographer were top of mind for the couple during the planning process. Elizabeth & Jake dreamed of an elegant space that would photograph beautifully and also be memorable for guests. Reflecting on the process, Elizabeth wrote,
"One piece of advice we'd share with other couples is to find a wedding planner who truly understands your vision and goals. At first, we thought planning a wedding on our own wouldn't be too difficult, but we quickly realized how invaluable a planner really is. They smooth out the unexpected bumps, think of details you might overlook, and handle countless behind-the-scenes tasks to ensure the day flows seamlessly. Having that support allows you to be fully present and enjoy your celebration without the stress."
They were lucky enough to find an in-house coordinator at Cappella Weddings & Events, their dream reception venue located in the heart of downtown historic La Crosse. The Capella Ballroom boasts 40-foot cathedral ceilings, exposed brick backdrops, warm lighting, and original 1886 stained glass windows.
Elizabeth found her dream dress, the "Glenetta" from designer Justin Alexander, at Vera's House of Bridals. The stunning fit-and-flare gown featured a straight neckline, a basque waist, off-the-shoulder straps, exposed corset boning, and vintage lace that cascaded into a chapel-length train. She accessorized with a floor-length tulle veil that added texture and movement to her romantic poses and portraits.
Hair and makeup teams collaborated to create a bridal look that was both radiant and natural. Esthetician Devinne brought out Elizabeth's natural beauty, with rosy cheeks, soft eyeshadow, lengthy lashes, and glossy lip. Sue Kolves Salon & Day Spa styled Elizabeth's hair into a half-updo, with loose waves, and stylish, framing curtain bangs.
The couple wed at Blessed Sacrament Church in La Crosse. Jake's walk down the aisle was the first without crutches after an ankle injury just weeks before, an unexpected hiccup Elizabeth & Jake chose to see the best in. Though he wore a boot for the occasion, it did not take away from the beauty and meaning of their devotion to one another. If anything, the moment felt even more memorable and momentous.
In honor of her late mother, Elizabeth carried a bouquet wrapped in a ribbon that featured a gold pin holding a picture of her mother. She wrote, "This was a deeply personal tribute that honored her and kept her mother close on such a meaningful day."
The day's color palette was kept simple, featuring black, white, cream, and blush. Elizabeth's bridesmaids wore various styles of blush gowns, and each carried a bouquet that matched the bride's. Blooms from Wildflower and Wren included peonies, white and blush roses, peach ranunculus, daisies, and smaller accent flowers and greenery.
Jake and his groomsmen wore black suits from Men's Wearhouse, with white undershirts, black ties, and pocket florals. For a slight differentiation, Jake also wore a black vest, visible beneath his suit coat.
Emilee Meador Photography captured the couple's big day, from getting ready to the end of the night. While searching for vendors, Elizabeth hoped to find a photographer who understood her vision, while also feeling comfortable being creative and thinking outside the box. The resulting gallery included plenty of candid moments, along with editorial-styled posed photos that the couple adores (and we agree!).
Highlights at the reception included delicious catering from Apothik Catering & Food Truck, a champagne wall from Resource Vintage Rental, and music and entertainment from DJ Wilde.
For their first dance, Elizabeth & Jake chose "Sweet Symphony" by Joy Oladonkun and Chris Stapleton, which perfectly captured their love. Surrounded by family and friends, they will forever cherish the support and joy they felt in those precious moments.
Find more La Crosse, Wisconsin, wedding inspiration on our blog and on social @wedplanlacrosse!
