The Long Sleeve Ballgown Our Editors Are Obsessing Over

From the bride, Lauren… Jordan and I met through a mutual friend. We had gone to high school together, but had never formally met. We dated for five years, mostly at a short distance while we were both in graduate school in different states (Wisconsin and Minnesota). The weekend of April 9, Jordan planned a getaway to my parent’s lake home in northern Wisconsin. His plans were almost crushed by a late spring blizzard, but with a little luck we made the hike to our favorite lake where Jordan proposed on one knee, and I of course said yes. We returned to the lake home, and to my surprise all our family and my best friend were waiting to celebrate, champagne in hand.

As we began the planning process, we wanted our wedding to feel classic and timeless. To achieve this, we chose a neutral color palate of ivory and white accented by the natural greenery that blooms during spring in Wisconsin. The ceremony was held at our church in downtown Madison, with the reception following at The Edgewater hotel, located on the shore of beautiful Lake Mendota. Our wedding party was made up of both our families (7 brothers!) and we wouldn’t have had it any other way.

Once we had a vision of our day, the details started to fall into place. After trying on a few dresses, I fell in love with a long sleeve Hayley Paige gown. It was the perfect combination of tulle and lace. The men in black tie tuxedos was an easy decision- a classic duo!

From a rose petal toss as we left the church to a 10-piece band singing Frank Sinatra, we worked hard to preserve our intention throughout the day. Sticking with our concept of timeless elegance, we chose to have our day captured in film, rather than digital photography. Our insanely talented photographer, Jake Anderson, provided us with photos that we will cherish forever. The grain and realness of the photos are something that cannot be beat. Looking back at the photos makes us feel all the feels, and for that we thank Jake!

We both agree that our favorite moment of the day was simply exchanging vows. We loved the band (North Coast Orchestra), the blooms (Garden Laurels), and the grand exit complete with ribbon wands (thanks, dad!). But at the end of the day saying those sacred vows in front of all our loved ones takes the peony layered cake!