We're Elevate

What started as a side hustle for two creative, driven sisters has now become one of the Midwest’s premier event planning and design firms. At Elevate, we find pure, unbridled joy in celebrating all aspects of life - big moments, small gatherings and anything in between.

A Classic Summer Wedding in Door County

From the very beginning, Dayna had a clear vision of what her wedding day (and weekend) would look like, and it was very important to her and Charlie that their guests felt seen and taken care of all weekend long. Door County is Dayna and Charlie’s special spot, so hosting a wedding in the beautiful top of the thumb of Wisconsin was the perfect choice for them. 

The festivities started with a bridal luncheon that Dayna so masterfully planned and designed, followed by probably the largest rehearsal Elevate has orchestrated (these two have a lot of friends) out on the front lawn of the Dorr Hotel. The group walked right over to Chop for a cozy rehearsal dinner and then opened up the evening to drinks and snacks at Al Johnson’s (yes, the restaurant with the goats on the roof). 

The weather on Memorial Day weekend was absolutely perfect and the wedding day was no exception. Everyone had such a laid back morning, waking up to the birds, hot coffee and the adorable custom Wedding Post (a newspaper all about Dayna and Charlie’s relationship). Dayna and her group of ladies got ready in an Airbnb on the water in the cutest pink pajamas while Charlie and gentlemen relaxed over at Dorr Hotel before it was time for them to move over to the Airbnb for the special First Looks Dayna had with her brothers, dad, and of course, Charlie. As a whole, the entire wedding party looked so classic in the gorgeous champagne dresses and black tuxedos. While the incredible vendor team was putting the finishing touches on the venue design, Dayna, Charlie and the wedding party hopped on the adorable Sister Bay Trolley and cruised over to Northern Haus for more photos and respite before the big hurrah! 

As guests arrived at Northern Haus, they were greeted with Prosecco or Spotted Cow while they made their way down the path to the Forest Retreat for the ceremony. Dayna’s older brother officiated the ceremony and between that and the emotional vows, the ceremony was a clear highlight of the day. The cocktail hour was outside on the patio complete with delicious hors d’oeuvres from Chefusion, signature cocktails (a Wisconsin Old Fashioned selected by the Groom paired with an adorable Duncan (the dog) stirrer and a Limoncello Spritz chosen by Dayna). 

The evening just kept getting better with a 3 course dinner, incredible toasts by family and friends, and outstanding music by The Chicago Players. Dayna’s younger brother even stepped in as the drummer for “Mr. Brightside” and the guests went crazy! After a wonderful reception, everyone got trolley rides back to the main drag of Sister Bay for an after party at Husby’s, and finished off the weekend of celebration back out front on the lawn of the Dorr Hotel for a casual summer barbeque party.

This destination wedding weekend was chock-full of so much love and celebrating, and we are so lucky to have been a part of the experience. We are so happy for you, Dayna and Charlie, and wish you all the love in the world. Cheers to you!

A Classic Summer Wedding in Door County
A Classic Summer Wedding in Door County
A Classic Summer Wedding in Door County
A Classic Summer Wedding in Door County
A Classic Summer Wedding in Door County
A Classic Summer Wedding in Door County
A Classic Summer Wedding in Door County
A Classic Summer Wedding in Door County

Vendors

Venue & Bar: Northern Haus | Catering: Chefusion | Photography: Kristina Lorraine  | Videography: Olson Film | Planning: Elevate Events | Floral: Ebb and Flow Flowers | Rentals: BBJ La Tavola, & Treblemonsters | Invitations: Coqui Paperie | Transportation: Door County Trolley | Hair & Makeup: Bridal Artistry Team  | Entertainment: The Chicago Players | Accommodations: The Dorr Hotel | Wedding Dress: Carolina Herrera via Ultimate Bride Chicago