The Gathering Barn Wedding // Ashland, WI // Raquel + Stan

Raquel and Stan have a story straight out of a rom com.
They first met in central Wisconsin where Stan’s family vacationed and Raquel’s family lived. Their families became super close and Stan and Raquel spent every summer on the lake together growing up and falling in love. As adults Raquel made the move to Colorado and they finally made their relationship official. Fast forward to their wedding day, Raquel and Stan tied the knot in the Northwoods surrounded by their loved ones.

The Gathering Barn in Ashland is such a gorgeous venue. We had outdoor areas for the ceremony and pictures and the most beautiful indoor area for getting ready, dinner, and dancing!

Raquel and Stan made their details so personal! They spent FOREVER collecting drift wood, stones, and sea glass for their centerpieces. These two love hiking, camping, and any activity that puts them in or near the water. So each little piece of wood, rock, and glass tells a story about their adventures together.

These two decided to read letters to each other privately before their ceremony. I love that they took the time to just connect and have a moment before the madness of getting ready and the ceremony.

Raquel opted to do a first look with her Dad and her brothers. And it was the sweetest thing ever. Look at those facial expressions!!!

You all know I love good food at a wedding. And this little cocktail hour spread did not disappoint!

We took a little break from the festivities and snuck over to Lake Superior to take some gorgeous bride and groom portraits.

I always always try to get my couples to sneak away around sunset. They’re usually ready for a little break, they’re feeling relaxed and just ready to have some fun. It doesn’t need to be long. 10-15 minutes. And then you get the cutest pictures ever like Stan and Raquel.

Don’t be afraid to grab your group of friends for some fun pictures. You’re all dressed up, you’re all together, you might as well get some good photos.