The Covenant At Murray Mansion | Destination Wedding Photographer

As a destination wedding photographer, I love that I get to travel, see new places, and meet so many amazing couples! Sam and Nick are one of those couples that I had the joy of meeting and photographing for their wedding at The Covenant At Murray Mansion in Racine, Wisconsin.

The Covenant At Murray Mansion Wedding Weekend

I photographed Sam’s sister-in-law’s cousin’s wedding, Ali and Erik, which is where Sam heard of me. It truly is a small world! I Love when I have the opportunity to continue to document past couples and their loved ones. Since they opted for full weekend coverage, that meant I got to spend extra time with the couple and getting to know all their family and friends. I also love being by water, so it was so nice to enjoy a beautiful September evening at their rehearsal dinner and welcome party hosted in downtown Racine with their loved ones before the big day.

Sam and Nick are an absolutely gorgeous couple, who are complete naturals in front of the camera. Both are as beautiful on the inside as the outside. Sam is full of infectious joy and energy and is so kind to those around her. I enjoyed every moment I got to spend with them!

couples portraits by destination wedding photographer, Alex Ferreri

Bride and groom walk together holding hands

It was important to both of them that the photos were not over edited. Light and clean imagery that included a variety of photos were top priority. We included candid and fun photos of them enjoying the weekend events with their loved ones and that showcased their venue, along with light posing to give them the variety they wanted.

soon-to-be-newlyweds at rehearsal dinner

The Covenant At Murray Mansion Wedding

Their entire wedding day took place at the venue, The Covenant At Murray Mansion, which is a gorgeous, luxury venue. The couple shared an emotional first look, which was so sweet to witness. They included a lot of personal details into their day, telling their story and truly making the day their own. Some of my favorite details from their day was Nick’s custom green suit jacket that featured pictures of their cat on the inside of the jacket and their wedding date stitched under the collar.

Following their first look, we captured a few wedding portraits of the soon-to-be newlyweds as well as their wedding party. They had a huge wedding party consisting of 12 on each side. I used my experience with photographing bigger groups of people to make it fun and quick. Sometimes getting a bigger group together in photos is a challenge, which is why it’s important to have someone who can direct everyone, but still make it a fun experience!

bride and groom toast glass of champagne

Wedding Ceremony

The stunning ceremony took place in the renovated church. The white walls and vaulted ceilings created a light and airy feel. Nick’s brother-in-law officiated the wedding, which was extra special. Many were brought to tears as Sam and Nick exchanged their own written vows, as well as Sam’s parents’ wedding rings. It was such a memorable and special ceremony.

Music was another crucial component to their wedding day. Beautiful live strings played during the ceremony and cocktail hour. During the reception, a band played during the first half, and then a DJ for the second half. I absolutely loved all the variety and how each wedding day event was defined by the music.

romantic wedding portraits at The Covenant At Murray Mansion

Personal Wedding Details

The personal touches continued throughout cocktail hour and their reception. A custom bag game was played during cocktail hour; then, for their reception, the newlyweds shared their first dance as husband and wife, to the vocals of their best man and friend, John, singing their song.

Instead of the traditional cake cutting, they cut a pizza and dipped it in ranch. Little details like this are so special and I always support couples fully making this day their own and doing what feels right to them! Also, you can never go wrong with pizza!

newlyweds feed each other pizza during The Covenant At Murray Mansion Wedding reception

The Covenant At Murray Mansion Wedding reception

I will say though, that my favorite moment was when they changed into their second outfit to end their celebration. However, instead of changing into a second party dress or new suit – they wore matching Nikes and Nike sweat outfits – a black outfit for him and a white one for her. I am obsessed with this. I love fashion, but comfort is KEY to a good time and these two knocked it out of the park.

Their wedding weekend was perfect in every way. It was an incredible experience and I am so grateful to have been a part of it. Congratulations to the newlyweds!