Thoughts on a Madison Wedding, finding inspiration, and civic architecture’s role on marriage.
But how is a taste in this beautiful art to be formed in our countrymen, unless we avail ourselves of every occasion when public buildings are to be erected, of presenting to them models for their study & imitation?
– Thomas Jefferson (in discussing the construction of the Capitol Building in Washington DC)
Whenever I find myself in Madison I always hope to spend time at the Madison capitol building, one of the best pieces of civic architecture in the country. It is open to the public to wander through, to enjoy.
For as beautiful as the capitol is, it would be as much a capitol building if it were a skyscraper, or a featureless behemoth. We choose to have our government buildings be inspirational. We choose to showcase the grandeur and maturity and elegance that sometimes we don’t posses but that we always strive to have.
A good wedding is also an inspiration, a model, for a life of loving understanding. We cannot, in our married lives, always be patient and kind and honest. We can choose to strive for those things.
There couldn’t be a better model for others than Kris and Michael’s wedding. And, indeed, I am sure that their own parents served as strong models for love as they grew up. Kris and Michael are elegant and loving and kind. Their wedding was also energetic and fun and a touch wild. There was dancing, there was a German wedding day challenge, there were toasts.
May we all find inspiration for study and imitation as strong as these two. And may we look half as good doing it!
ABOUT WEDDINGS AT THE MEMORIAL UNION
I grew up in Madison and worked in the Memorial Union during college – I have many memories of walking along the terrace, studying, meeting up with friends, and finding a quiet corner in this amazing building. I know that couples who plan their wedding at the Memorial Union often have similar connections to the space, and I love to bring that sense of magic and wonder into the images as well.
Knowing the building has been a huge asset in finding the best spaces for portraits and unexpected vistas. As the renovations change the space and the terrace, I’m continuously engaged by telling love stories at the Memorial Union.
Ceremony: St John the Baptist Church
Reception: Memorial Union Great Hall
Planner: Cherry Blossom Events
Band: Upbeat Orchestra
Hotel: Mansion Hill Inn
Ceremony & Cocktail Music: Sterling & Brass Quartet
Florist: Flora by Jamae
Transportation: Badger Bus
Antique Car: Sunset Limos
Cake: “I Do” Cakes by Betty
Hair/Make-up: Alan Koa Salon
