Laura + Hunter | October 6, 2018
Some weddings feel like they belong in a different era—in the best way. That was Laura and Hunter’s day: timeless, elegant, and full of personality. They chose a classic church ceremony followed by a country club reception, and added modern, playful touches that made the celebration unmistakably theirs.
Ceremony at Immanuel Lutheran Church
Laura and Hunter were married at the historic Immanuel Lutheran Church in La Crosse, Wisconsin. With its Gothic Revival architecture, soaring ceilings, and vibrant stained glass windows, it created a ceremony setting that was both dramatic and deeply meaningful. The church’s intricate carved altar and warm coral accents gave every photo a painterly, old-world feel.
Pre-ceremony, Laura got ready with her bridesmaids, slipping into a cream mermaid-style gown adorned with intricate beadwork. The vintage-inspired dress shimmered as she moved, paired with a cascading veil and barefoot lace accessories that made a statement without needing shoes. Her blonde curls were pinned back with a delicate white branch piece, and floral brooches from both grandmothers were tucked into her bouquet—a beautiful tribute to family history.
Meanwhile, Hunter and his groomsmen wore tailored dark blue-gray suits with black lapels and bowties. Classic, sharp, and sophisticated. The couple chose to forgo a first look, which made Hunter’s reaction as Laura walked down the aisle with her father all the more moving. His eyes welled up, and behind him, groomsmen exchanged knowing glances—moments that reminded us that weddings aren’t just about two people, but about all the people who love them cheering them on.
A Ceremony Full of Emotion
Laura and Hunter exchanged heartfelt vows beneath the cathedral arches, framed by light filtering through stained glass. At the end of the ceremony, just after their first kiss, Hunter pulled Laura into a full embrace, grinning ear to ear—a spontaneous, joyful hug that perfectly captured the love between them.
After some formal family portraits at the altar, the wedding party headed downtown for photos in Historic La Crosse. Laura was a natural in front of the camera—giving us serious Tyra Banks “smize” energy. We swooped her veil for some romantic wind-blown shots, and she completely owned the moment. The images from that golden-hour session are timeless—editorial without losing the emotion.
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Reception at La Crosse Country Club
Cocktail hour was held at The La Crosse Country Club in Onalaska, where guests mingled on the patio overlooking the rolling greens. The country club offers both indoor and outdoor event space, in-house catering, and a dedicated event team—ideal for weddings year-round.
Dinner was delicious (and came with a complimentary tasting beforehand—a major bonus), and the staff moved seamlessly through the reception. The early fall colors surrounding the venue made for stunning evening portraits with Laura and Hunter, adding a warm glow to their already radiant energy.
As the evening continued, speeches brought laughter and a few more tears, and the newlyweds took to the dance floor for their first dance. Hunter pulled Laura close, gently resting his head against hers, while moments earlier she’d flashed a cheeky rock-and-roll hand sign to the camera. That duality—tender and playful—summed up their entire day. It was a perfect blend of grace and authenticity.
We left the celebration just as boas and glow sticks were making their rounds on the dance floor, confident the party was only just getting started.
Final Thoughts
Laura and Hunter’s wedding was everything a fall Wisconsin celebration should be: elegant, emotional, and effortlessly fun. It was the kind of day that reminds us why we do this work—to capture love, in all its forms, in all its light.
Congratulations, Mr. & Mrs. Lisowski!
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