Watch Tower Lodge Wedding
I always love seeing college sweethearts get all gussied up and head back to their alma maters to exchange vows, and that’s precisely what Scott and Erin did for their beautiful wedding styled by Tamara Wendt Design. We’ve got photographer Ashley of Artistrie Co. to give us the scoop on their big day, so without further ado, let’s get started!
From the photographer, Ashley of Artistrie Co.: Scott said from the very beginning that Erin was the kind of girl you marry. After meeting and falling in love at Augustana College, it only seemed fitting to return to the beautiful Rock Island, Illinois campus to celebrate their wedding day. The Denver residents packed everything from Erin’s wedding dress to their honeymoon luggage in their car and made the drive to their alma mater for their spring affair. Early in the day, the couple met at Blackhawk Forest Preserve for an intimate moment. Erin and Scott hugged, kissed and went for a walk through the preserve, hand-in-hand. It was the first perfect weekend of spring.
Trees were coated in leaves and flowers were in full bloom. The location complimented the couple’s earthy and natural style, and their love for the outdoors. Before getting ready for their ceremony, Erin and Scott revisited Augustana’s famous Bell Tower. Here, it’s known that whomever you kiss under the bell tower ends up being the person you marry. Erin and Scott exchanged a final kiss and then prepared to walk down the aisle.
The wedding party processional was accompanied by the sounds of acoustic guitar. Guests filled the chapel as they watched the happy couple exchange vows and become husband and wife. After the touching ceremony, their friends and family gathered at Blackhawk Forest Preserve’s Watch Tower Lodge for cocktails outside on the veranda. The rich texture of the wooden walls, mixed with the floor to ceiling windows and soaring ceilings set the scene for a marvelous reception. Designed, conceptualized and crafted by Quad City mastermind Tamara Wendt, there was not one detail out of place. The soft palette of sea foam green, navy, white, coral, and gold flowed effortlessly throughout the room. Potted succulents, mosses, and greenery were found at every table. Sequin white and gold chevron table runners added the perfect geometric touch to the earthy elements.
The wedding party enjoyed Moscow Mules in their signature copper mugs. After being introduced as Mr. and Mrs. Scott Walker, the couple shared a first dance to the Coldplay ballad “Sparks”. After dinner, the party instantly started as the Brat Pack, an 80’s cover band, performed all of the classics. Everyone was on their feet dancing. Scott and his band even had the opportunity to take over and entertain their friends. The crowd went crazy! From start to finish, this was definitely a wedding day to remember.
View all images from this wedding in the gallery
Wedding Location: Rock Island, IL / Photographer: Artistrie Co. / Event Design: Tamara Wendt Design / Ceremony Venue: Ascension Chapel, Augustana College / Reception Venue: Watch Tower Lodge / Wedding Veil: Sara Gabriel / Wedding Shoes: Charlotte Russe / Jewelry: Tiffany & Co. / Hair and Makeup: Salon Halo / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: J. Crew / Caterer: Biaggi’s / Favors and Gifts: Lagomarcino’s / Wedding Cake: Le Cake / Band: The Brat Pack
Thank you so much for this beautiful feature! This wedding was a dream to photograph and I’m glad that Erin and Scott’s day could be shared.
Love the chevron table runners!
Great pictures, cuz! I’m so sorry that I couldn’t make it, but so glad that these pictures were shared!
does anyone know what suit he is wearing?
If you could forward me some information to be able to have a ceremony and reception on a Sat night next may, that would be great!
Who is the groom and groomsmen’s suits by? Love the color!