A Timeless Love Story in Milwaukee, WI
Emma and Joey’s wedding at St. James 1868 Wedding Venue in Milwaukee, WI, was the perfect blend of modern elegance and timeless European charm. Known for its historic architecture and luxurious ambiance, St. James 1868 provided the ideal backdrop for a celebration that felt as if it were transported straight from the streets of Paris or Venice.
From the stunning chapel ceremony to the candlelit reception, every detail of their day reflected sophistication and artistry. Keep reading to discover how this couple created an unforgettable wedding experience at one of Milwaukee’s most sought-after venues.
Luxury Getting Ready Suites at St. James 1868
Emma and Joey began their wedding day in the luxurious getting-ready suites at St. James 1868, designed with elegance and comfort in mind. The Duke and Duchess Suites, located within the venue, are intimate and sophisticated spaces that offer the perfect start to a couple’s big day.
The suites feature plush furnishings, thoughtfully curated details, and an ambiance that reflects the venue’s European-inspired aesthetic. With ample natural light, intricate design elements, and cozy seating areas, these rooms provide a serene yet stylish environment for couples and their wedding party to prepare.
The suites are also ideal for capturing meaningful pre-ceremony moments, such as final touches on hair and makeup, exchanging gifts, or toasting with champagne. Every detail of the spaces has been carefully crafted to enhance the wedding day experience while complementing the timeless charm of St. James 1868
A Sweet First Look in The Hyde
Emma and Joey made their wedding day truly special by renting out the entire St. James 1868 property, allowing them exclusive access to every space. For their intimate first look, they chose The Hyde, a private area located above and behind the main church.
The Hyde exudes understated luxury, with a modern yet cozy design that complements the venue’s historic charm. The space features warm wood finishes, contemporary lighting, and stylish furnishings, creating an inviting atmosphere for a quiet moment before the day’s festivities. Its versatile layout provided the perfect backdrop for Emma and Joey’s romantic first look, with soft natural light filtering through the windows and elegant architectural details enhancing the ambiance.
Their first look was an incredibly sweet and emotional moment, as they embraced and shared quiet words of love and excitement for the day ahead. Capturing this private interaction in such a serene, elegant space made the experience all the more memorable, setting the tone for the rest of their celebration at St. James 1868.
Emma and Joey’s Ceremony in the St. James Chapel
Emma and Joey’s wedding day began in the St. James 1868 chapel, a breathtaking space that rivals cathedrals in Europe. The couple exchanged vows beneath soaring arches and intricate stained-glass windows, creating a ceremony filled with intimacy and reverence.
The chapel’s timeless beauty required little additional decor, allowing the venue’s rich architectural details to shine. A soft palette of white and cream floral arrangements, paired with flickering candles lining the aisle, enhanced the romantic atmosphere without overpowering the space.
A Candlelit Reception in The Abbey
The Abbey at St. James 1868 provided a breathtaking setting for Emma and Joey’s reception. Known for its timeless European-inspired design, the hall features intricate details and a warm, elegant atmosphere that perfectly suited the couple’s vision. With its historic charm and sophisticated ambiance, the space was transformed into a candlelit wonderland, emphasizing romance and intimacy.
The reception décor leaned into the venue’s luxurious aesthetic, with an abundance of taper candles casting a soft glow over the tablescapes. Paired with lush floral arrangements and custom details, the hall exuded both elegance and charm. Guests were treated to a beautifully curated space that felt intimate despite its grand proportions, making it an unforgettable setting for an evening of celebration.
But what truly made this day magical was the presence of Emma and Joey’s closest friends and family. The love and joy that radiated from them was palpable, and I was honored to document those precious moments for them.
FAQ: Planning Your Wedding at St. James 1868
1. What spaces are available at St. James 1868 for weddings?
St. James 1868 offers two distinct venues:
- The Abbey: Accommodates 100–250 guests. Rental rates range from $8,500 to $12,500.
- The Hyde: Suitable for 75–150 guests. Rental rates range from $5,500 to $6,500.
For a comprehensive experience, you can rent the full property, accommodating 100–250 guests, with rates between $8,500 and $19,000.
The venue additionally includes a dedicated outdoor space in season to host your outdoor cocktail hour. The Abbey’s English-designed courtyard is a private haven for guests to enjoy as they wish.
2. Can we rent out the entire property for our wedding?
Yes, St. James 1868 offers the option to rent the entire property, providing exclusive access to both The Abbey and The Hyde. This allows for a seamless flow between ceremony and reception spaces, accommodating 100–250 guests, with rental rates ranging from $8,500 to $19,000.
3. What makes the getting-ready suites special?
The venue features luxurious getting-ready suites designed for comfort and elegance. These spaces offer ample natural light, sophisticated décor, and modern amenities, providing a serene environment for couples and their wedding parties to prepare for the day.
4. Do you offer event planning services?
St. James 1868 provides an event staff to oversee venue-specific details, assist with vendor arrivals, and greet guests at the entrance. For couples looking for additional support, they offer a Month of Coordinator for an additional fee. This coordinator helps with timeline management, processional lining, and personal assistance on the wedding day. While St. James encourages hiring a full-service Event Planner or Month of Coordinator, they can provide recommendations for trusted professionals.
5. How many guests can St. James 1868 accommodate?
The Abbey can host 100–250 guests, while The Hyde is suitable for 75–150 guests. Renting the full property allows for a guest count of 100–250, providing flexibility to accommodate both intimate gatherings and larger celebrations.
Why Choose St. James 1868 Wedding Venue?
Emma and Joey’s wedding day is just one example of the magic that can be created at St. James 1868 Wedding Venue. Here’s why this venue is a standout choice for Milwaukee couples:
- Attention to Detail: The staff at St. James 1868 are known for their dedication to creating seamless and stress-free events.
- Architectural Beauty: The venue’s Gothic Revival style and European-inspired details provide an unforgettable backdrop for weddings.
- Versatile Spaces: From the chapel to the loft space and courtyard, St. James 1868 offers multiple spaces that can be customized to fit any wedding vision.
- Convenient Location: Located in the heart of Milwaukee, the venue is easily accessible for local and out-of-town guests.
Final Thoughts About This St. James Wedding
Emma and Joey’s wedding at St. James 1868 Wedding Venue was a stunning example of how this historic location can bring European elegance to a Milwaukee celebration. From the awe-inspiring chapel to the candlelit reception space, their day was filled with love, beauty, and timeless charm.
Whether you’re dreaming of a modern celebration or a more traditional affair, St. James 1868 offers the perfect setting to bring your vision to life. If you’re searching for a Wisconsin wedding photographer to capture your special day, I’d love to help you document all the beautiful, heartfelt moments at St. James 1868 or or anywhere your love story takes you!
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St. James 1868 Milwaukee Wedding Vendors
Venue: St. James 1868 | Photographer: Mariah Jones Photo | Cake Designer: Cake Lady Designs | Dress Designer: Mira Couture & Dana Harel Design | Suit: The Black Tux | DJ: David Charles Pro & Productions with Parker | Grooms Apparel & Accessories: The Black Tux | Makeup Artist, Hair Stylist: Bridal Artistry Team | Florist: Belle Fiori MKE & Jane Kelly Floral
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