Savannah and Sawyer’s wedding weekend at Prevailing Winds Lodge and Blue Mound State Park was the kind of outdoor wedding in Wisconsin that makes you forget you’re sweating through your linen. Nature-forward, deeply intentional, and full of that slow, summer joy, every detail felt personal without trying too hard.

As a Wisconsin wedding photographer, I’ve seen my fair share of backyard breezes and humid hair moments, but there’s just something about embracing the wild beauty of this state that hits different. So let’s talk about how these two made it work, and how you can plan an outdoor wedding that’s gorgeous, meaningful, and (mostly) sweat-free.

A Love Story in the Woods (and an Outdoor Wedding in Wisconsin to Remember)

Savannah and Sawyer went full circle, college coworkers turned fiancée-and-fiancé, back to Blue Mound State Park to say “I do.” Standing on that trail where they first bonded felt like nostalgia with a side of happy tears. It wasn’t some staged moment; it was pure them, surrounded by the trees that witnessed their first inside jokes.

Then we cruised over to Prevailing Winds Lodge, just 30 minutes from Madison, where prairie grasses swayed like they were VIP guests and vintage wildflowers popped up everywhere (barefoot dancing totally encouraged). As a wedding photographer, when a couple chooses a location that reflects their love story, the entire day just hits differently. Every glance, every vow, every photo feels richer and more rooted.

4 Tips for Planning an Outdoor Wedding in Wisconsin (Without Melting)

1. Be Ready for Any Weather

Savannah and Sawyer’s wedding hit a high of 97 degrees. Yep. Ninety. Seven. Degrees. But these two didn’t miss a beat, they made sure guests had water bottles and handheld fans along with plenty of shade to keep things cool and comfy. If you’re planning an outdoor wedding in Wisconsin, definitely prep for the unexpected. Pro tip: build in breaks to sneak into some AC if you can (your bridal party will thank you).

2. Choose a Location That Means Something to You

This isn’t just about pretty backdrops (though, let’s be real, Wisconsin delivers big time on those). Choosing a location that holds personal significance for you adds emotional depth to your celebration, allowing you to feel it in every moment. I’ve seen how powerful it is when couples root their day in meaning, it shows up in every single photo.

3. Embrace Nature’s Surprises

While we were out shooting bride and groom portraits in the prairie, a mink popped out of the grass to say hi. It was a blink-and-you-miss-it moment, but it totally captured the wild, beautiful energy of the day. When you get married outside, you never know who (or what!) will drop by, and honestly, that’s part of the charm!!

4. Let Your Theme Flow with the Landscape

Savannah’s vision? “Vintage wildflowers.” Think soft pinks, peaches, earthy tones, and ivory over stark white. Her decor complemented the natural setting instead of competing with it. Bonus: She planned for extra flowers and decor, which came in handy throughout the day. Intentional and flexible, and totally unique to their love story. 

Outdoor Weddings in Wisconsin Are Their Own Kind of Magic

Outdoor weddings in Wisconsin are a vibe all their own. From sunny prairie trails to cozy lodge receptions, they offer the perfect blend of laid-back beauty and meaningful connection. If you’re dreaming up your own celebration under the sky, take a page from Savannah and Sawyer’s book: plan ahead, lean into the setting, and don’t be afraid to sweat a little. The memories? So worth it.

As a Wisconsin wedding photographer, I’m here for it all, the nature walks, the unexpected wildlife sightings, and every sweet, candid moment in between. Let’s make your wedding weekend feel like the story it’s meant to be. 

Ready to make sure your wedding is captured just the way you’ve always dreamed? Inquire today, I’m so excited to hear from you!

Looking for more wedding inspiration and planning advice? Check out a couple of blogs to help bring your wedding vision to life.

Playlists for Your Wedding Day

First Look vs. Traditional: A Wedding Photographer’s Perspective

Vendors:

Venue: Blue Mound State Park, Prevailing Winds Lodge
Photographer: Annika Frame Photography
Dress Shop: Premier Couture
Suit/Men’s Attire: Indochino
Bridesmaid Dresses: Revelry @shoprevelry
Hair + Makeup: Rooted Culture
Florist: Felly’s
Rings: Goodman’s Jewelers
Cake/Dessert: Greenbush Bakery
DJ: Sounds Blessed
Rentals: Event Essentials