Mary Rita and Justin’s Elegant Tented Wedding on Lake Mendota

As the echoes of joy and celebration continue to resonate, reliving the magical wedding day of Mary Rita and Justin in Mary Rita’s own childhood backyard truly made for a beautiful, sentimental, and special experience. Surrounded by their cherished friends and family, their love story unfolded in a day filled with heartfelt gratitude and love.

How They Met

Mary Rita was attending a colleague’s wedding reception on a large sailboat and Justin was one of the crew. He was working the front sail and she took a couple sailing classes and decided to strike up a conversation because she thought he was cute and she had a little liquid courage… 😉

Mary Rita told him that his jib was luffing and the conversation lasted all evening. Their first date was also on a boat!

And while we’re sad to say we weren’t able to get them on a boat on their wedding day (too windy), it only made sense that they got married in a place that had so much meaning to them: in Mary Rita’s parents’ backyard, next to the water.

The Proposal

Justin surprised Mary Rita with a trip to a cozy cottage for her birthday. He had a 3-course dinner catered at the cabin and proposed after dessert while they were sitting in front of the fireplace. It was romantic and intimate – just like them!

The Wedding Day

With their hearts set on creating a day of joy and togetherness, their goal was to provide a memorable experience for all who attended.

The tented reception area was elegantly adorned, featuring vintage and eclectic vintage plates that added a charming touch to each place setting. Every detail was carefully curated to create an inviting atmosphere where guests could relax, enjoy delicious food, and revel in the amazing lakeside views.

As the evening progressed, the dance floor came alive with the soulful melodies of a live band. The couple’s daughter, served as their flower girl and had a major contribution to the energy and joy of the dance floor. 🙂

Special thanks to Mary Rita’s parents who allowed us to take over their house/yard for a week and did everything possible to turn their home into a 5-Star wedding venue. With her dad’s master gardening skills combined with her mom’s expert hosting/baking skills that are unrivaled, we know a lot of labor and love was put into executing this day. Their dedication and hard work created a warm and inviting atmosphere that made everyone feel at home.

Are you dreaming of your own private residence wedding in Wisconsin or Minnesota? Let us guide you in creating a completely unique and personal day. Tented weddings are kind of our favorite. Contact us at Olive Branch Events Co. to learn more.

Vendor Team

Planning: Olive Branch Events Co.
Tent: Blue Peak Tents
Rentals: Velvet Rentals
Photography: Blu Moose Photography
Videography: Pretty Wedding Films
Bridal Makeup: Makeup By Markie, Mark Fenton
Catering: Blue Plate Catering
Band: Bluewater Kings Band
HOMEMADE Cookies (over 500+): Aunt Cathy and Mama McKenna
String Quartet: Lucia String Quartet featuring Uncle Alan
Florals: Red Square Flowers
Dress Alterations: Befitted Tailoring Co.