Cody & Bryan were both living in Chicago when they met on a dating app. After eight years together, their sense of adventure led to an international proposal in Bryan’s ancestral homeland, Italy. Knowing Bryan had always wanted to visit Italy, Cody planned a surprise Christmas Day proposal in Rome. He got down on one knee in Villa Borghese, a scenic location overlooking the Eternal City. The couple describes the proposal as, “Magical, intimate, and a moment we’ll cherish forever.”
The Ivy House in Milwaukee is a modern industrial venue, perfect for Cody & Bryan’s “nature meets industrial” theme. They sought to create a lush, lively environment that also felt urban, as a nod to the city where they met.
After finding their venue, the next step was hiring a wedding planner. Cody & Bryan connected with Ashley from Midwestern Bride, who was essential in creating their dream day. They wrote,
“[Ashley] was truly instrumental in bringing our vision to life. She helped us curate an event that felt true to us, introduced us to vendors we may never have found on our own, and supported us every step of the way, always ready to answer questions or brainstorm ideas.”
The color palette for the day consisted of a signature dark green, mint green, taupe, black, white, and a pop of terracotta. Wanting coordinating, but non-matching formalwear, the grooms alternated solids and patterns from NL Suits. Bryan wore a green plaid suit with a dark green vest, white undershirt, and a pale pink tie. Cody wore a solid dark green suit, a patterned green vest, white undershirt, and a pale pink tie. Both grooms wore brown dress shoes, and each accessorized with a striking floral lapel piece by Generations Wedding Flowers & Photography.
Members of the wedding party embraced a softer palette, with dresses ranging from mint to sage green, and taupe suits with white undershirts and mint green ties.
Twig & Olive Photography captured every moment from Cody & Bryan’s day, from getting ready moments to final dances. Their photography approach blends natural light with honest emotion, creating an authentic photo gallery bathed in warm light and genuine connection. In addition to photos at the venue, Twig & Olive traveled alongside the couple, their wedding party, and guests to photograph city landmarks throughout the day.
Cody & Bryan officially tied the knot in an outdoor ceremony, surrounded by friends and family. They chose a seating arrangement that allowed guests to face both sides of the aisle. Since the wedding was on Flag Day, the couple incorporated custom flags that guests waved in celebration and also took home as keepsakes.
About the ceremony, the couple reflected,
“One of the most meaningful moments came during the ceremony when our officiant and close friend, Kelli, led a group vow. Everyone stood and pledged to love and support us as we entered this new chapter together. Including all of our guests in that promise was incredibly powerful, it was our way of creating a new tradition and making everyone feel truly part of the day.”
After a lively cocktail hour, with signature drinks and delicious small bites from Tall Guy and a Grill, the couple and their guests moved inside for dinner and speeches. The inside of The Ivy House lives up to its name, boasting crawling ivy and greenery across the walls, vaulted ceilings, and wrapped around exposed metal beams above. Warmly lit chandeliers and a skylight make the space feel even more intimate and inviting.
Personal details were at the forefront of Cody & Bryan’s day—especially during the reception. One of the most whimsical details was custom terracotta plates with each guest’s name painted at the center. Other reception details included bud vases, glowing candles, white and green linens, and disco ball décor.
Golden hour portraits included a short walk, framed by city architecture, industrial backdrops, and a mural. Twig and Olive Photography captured the couple’s playful side through joyful balloon tosses and movement-driven stills.
The party continued with dancing on the patio, with DJ & Entertainment from MKE Airwaves. Cody & Bryan corralled guests back outside for drinks, dancing, and ice cream from Purple Door Ice Cream, taking a moment to sneak away for a surprise outfit change.
Minutes later, they reappeared wearing fully sequined, 80s-inspired outfits, and ready for their choreographed first dance to “You Make Me Feel Like Dancing” by Leo Sayer! Guests were delighted by the joyful first dance, with the couple describing the moment as “priceless” and one of the best parts of their day.
Looking back on planning their beautiful wedding, Cody & Bryan have this advice:
“Be kind and gracious to your vendor team, the staff, and everyone working behind the scenes. These are the people making your vision a reality, and when you treat them with respect and trust their expertise, they’re even more inspired to go above and beyond for you. A little kindness goes a long way, making the entire experience more enjoyable for everyone involved.”
The inspiration doesn’t end here! Grab your free copy of WedPlan Milwaukee at our vendor locations, request yours online, or view our virtual planning guide to keep the ideas flowing. Have an incredible wedding story to share? Head to our submissions page to learn more about how to be featured in our annual publication, on socials, or right here on our blog!
