Some love stories feel as though they were written long before the couple ever met, waiting for the perfect moment to unfold. For Jenna and Michael, both eighteenth-century historians, their own story began in 2019 at Marquette University in Milwaukee.
Looking for a quieter place to study, Jenna switched desks in the history department's mezzanine, unknowingly taking the seat beside Michael, a second-year master's student specializing in Irish history. Although they hadn't formally met yet, they'd already noticed one another during a teaching assistant training session. Jenna even texted her mom afterward about the "very cute student" at another table who wasn't wearing a wedding ring. Years later, Michael revealed he remembered her from that same afternoon—especially her introduction about growing up in Florida and never having seen the leaves change color in the fall.
What began as shared study sessions grew into a relationship built on curiosity, adventure, and a mutual love of history. Together they explored museums throughout London and Oxford, celebrated Jenna's golden birthday with afternoon tea at The Shard, and created countless memories rooted in their shared passions. When Michael proposed, he returned to the place where it all truly began—the site of their first date—making the moment a beautiful full circle in their story.
A Wedding Inspired by History
Every detail of Jenna and Michael's wedding reflected the things they love most. Their celebration blended timeless romance with thoughtful historical influences, creating a day that felt deeply personal rather than simply traditional.
The date itself carried special significance. Celebrating on Valentine's Day was especially meaningful to Jenna, whose research once included the history of Valentine's Day in the American Colonies. Throughout the day, subtle nods to the eighteenth century appeared everywhere—from artwork and heirloom-inspired accessories to carefully chosen music that reflected the composers they both admired.
Jenna's bridal look beautifully captured her love of history, drawing inspiration from eighteenth-century silhouettes while maintaining an elegant, timeless feel. Even her gown had its own story: she affectionately named it "Felicity" after the couple's beloved cat.
Meaningful Moments
Beyond the beautiful details, it was the personal moments that made the day unforgettable.
On the morning of the wedding, Jenna surprised Michael with gold cufflinks shaped like buttons—a playful nod to one of his favorite nicknames for her. The wedding party carried sentimental keepsakes that tied into the Valentine's Day theme, adding another thoughtful layer to the celebration.
For Jenna, one of the moments she anticipated most was when the doors opened and her closest friends would finally see the dress she had managed to keep secret for months. For Michael, nothing compared to standing together to exchange vows and sharing their first kiss as husband and wife.
As they promised forever to one another, surrounded by family and friends, every chapter that had led them there—from university hallways to overseas adventures—felt beautifully connected.
The Celebration Continues
After the ceremony, the celebration carried effortlessly into an evening filled with heartfelt conversations, joyful laughter, wonderful food, and plenty of dancing.
The reception reflected the same warmth that defines Jenna and Michael's relationship. Guests celebrated alongside them while stories were shared, glasses were raised, and countless memories were made. A wedding cake topped with a ceramic colonial couple—a keepsake collected during their time living in Williamsburg, Virginia—served as another meaningful reminder of the life they've already built together.
Looking ahead, the newlyweds were excited to begin married life with a relaxing mini-moon before embarking on a dream European adventure the following year, continuing the tradition of exploring history side by side.
Jenna and Michael, thank you for trusting us to document the beginning of this new chapter. Your wedding was a beautiful reflection of who you are—thoughtful, joyful, endlessly curious, and deeply devoted to one another. We hope your future is filled with countless adventures, shared discoveries, and a lifetime of stories worth telling.
Why They Chose Bow Tie Photo & Video
When it came to choosing the team to document their wedding, Jenna and Michael wanted photographers who would appreciate not only the beauty of the day but also the story behind it. Every detail had been carefully chosen to reflect their shared love of history, their personalities, and the journey that brought them together.
They wanted their photographs and film to preserve the genuine emotions just as much as the thoughtfully curated details—from quiet moments before the ceremony to the joy of celebrating with the people they love most. Knowing those memories would be captured in an authentic, timeless way gave them confidence that they could simply be present and enjoy every moment together.
The Creative Team
Venue: Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine
Day-Of Coordinator: Kaitlyn Brumfield | @alavisheventllc
Floral Design: Jamie Myers | @harlowjamesfloral
Makeup Artistry: Kaitlin Francois | @makeupboss
Hair Styling: Rachael Green | @ohhoneysalon_
Catering: Casa Monica | @casamonicaresortandspa
Bakery: Publix Bakery | @publix
Entertainment & DJ: Chadwick Sorensen | @white_tie_events
Photography & Videography: @bow_tie_photo