1. Real Weddings

Sarah & James: A Lakeside Outdoor Wedding in Lake Geneva, WI

It was a classic case of matchmaking when Sarah’s best friend and James’ buddy had a hunch that their single pals would hit it off. Feeling adventurou

It was a classic case of matchmaking when Sarah’s best friend and James’ buddy had a hunch that their single pals would hit it off. Feeling adventurous, Sarah and James both agreed to a double date -- even though they knew nothing about each other. The gamble paid off, as Sarah and James felt an immediate connection. The Bride Sarah Mutz, 30, lawyer The Groom James Kirk, 34, construction manager The Date July 19 A year later, James and Sarah were driving to dinner on her 29th birthday when he stopped at a residential lot he’d purchased where he planned to build a home. James said he couldn’t think of a more romantic place to propose than on the very spot where he hoped he and Sarah would share a future together. “I was so surprised and happy,” says Sarah. “I had no idea he was going to propose!”

Hanging vines concealed tent poles and added a romantic vibe to the second reception venue.
A string quartet played U2’s “Beautiful Day” after the couple exchanged self-written vows.
The couple danced to Ronan Keating’s “When You Say Nothing at All” for their first dance. Sarah ditched her veil beforehand to let loose at the reception.
The 8-piece band played “My Girl,” by The Temptations before Sarah’s cousin put on a surprise performance. His song of choice? “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay,” by Otis Redding.
James and his groomsmen sported preppy sport coats, khaki pants, and bow ties that matched the bridesmaid dresses.
The couple included a photo of their lakeside wedding locale with each invitation to give guests a glimpse of what was to come.
Thick leaves lined short, square vases filled with roses, alstromeria, and accent blooms.
Each maid carried a smaller version of the bride’s bouquet.
A calla lily and rose bouquet popped against Sarah’s dress. Satin ribbon around the stems added a touch of formality to the otherwise laid-back style.
All nine bridesmaids donned the same chiffon dress. Gold cuffs, a gift from the bride, finished the look.
A sign printed with a formal script let guests know where to go so that no one arrived late for the ceremony.
Sarah wore a custom-made, Empire-waist dress inspired by the “Greek goddess” looks she’d seen in magazines. The light fabric was perfect for an outdoor summer affair.
Instead of taking down the hammock, Sarah spruced it up with roses and daisies. In the end, it added to the breezy feel of the reception.
After eating dinner on the Grand Belle, a two-story boat that tours Lake Geneva, the party continued in a tent set up on the lawn outside Sarah’s family’s lake house.
Not wanting a long engagement, Sarah and James wed just five months after he proposed. They immediately knew Lake Geneva was the perfect locale.
The couple and their guests boarded the Grand Belle for dinner. The at-sea dinner gave guests the chance to cool down and chow down before heading to the reception tent after sunset.
Dramatic arrangements of roses, lilies, and daisies towered over the buffet of shrimp-and-starfruit salad, seared ahi tuna, and Jamaican jerk chicken -- among other tasty bites.
Fresh blooms decorated each cake tier instead of pricier sugar flowers, while a circle of bridesmaid bouquets made the cake appear even larger.