Shadowing Emily & Ben in Port Washington - A Beautiful Day Full of Nostalgia and Learning
A few weeks after the chilly May wedding in Sparta, I had the chance to shadow Emily and her husband Ben again — this time at a stunning wedding in Port Washington, Wisconsin. This experience felt especially meaningful to me because I grew up in eastern Wisconsin and have fond memories of visiting Port Washington as a kid. Being back in a place so close to my heart, while watching a wedding unfold alongside Emily and Ben, made the day truly special.
Port Washington — A Picture-Perfect Wedding Setting
Port Washington is a charming lakeside town right on the shores of Lake Michigan, known for its picturesque harbor views, historic architecture, and warm, welcoming atmosphere. It’s the kind of place that feels timeless and full of stories, which made it the perfect backdrop for the couple’s big day.
As we moved through the day, I noticed how much the location itself adds depth and meaning to the wedding. Emily, the creative eye behind Emily Jean Photography, captured not just the couple, but the spirit of Port Washington — the shimmering water, the cobblestone streets, and the golden light that made every shot glow with authenticity.
Sharing My Hometown with Emily
One of my favorite parts of the day was getting to show Emily some of my favorite spots in Port Washington. It was fun and meaningful to share a piece of my childhood with her, and I loved seeing her photographer’s perspective on the town I grew up visiting.
Watching Emily work with such care and artistry brought home an important truth about weddings: they’re not just about the couple (though of course, the couple is always the heart of it all). They’re about the setting, the people, and the memories that layer together to make the day unforgettable. Every smile, every glance, every detail is part of a bigger story — one that’s made even richer by the place where it happens.
Behind the Scenes with Ben
While Emily led the charge with posing, guiding the couple, and capturing candid moments, Ben photographed right alongside her — documenting the day from his own unique perspective. It was clear that they’ve built a rhythm as a photography duo, moving in sync without missing a beat.
Beyond the camera, Ben also kept a quiet eye on the timeline and the little details that help the day run smoothly — making sure gear was ready, helping scout photo spots, and supporting Emily so she could stay focused on the couple. His attentiveness and calm energy made everything feel even more seamless.
Watching them work as a team reminded me how valuable strong vendor partnerships are — and how much goes into making a wedding day feel effortless for the couple.
Personal Growth and Professional Inspiration
Beyond the beauty of the location and the smooth execution of the day, this wedding was a wonderful trip down memory lane for me personally. It reminded me how powerful it is to connect your work with places and experiences that resonate deeply.
More than anything, these shadowing experiences with Emily Jean Photography and Ben are helping me build my own wedding coordination skills. They’re teaching me to be flexible, present, and focused on what really matters — creating wedding days that feel calm, joyful, and truly unforgettable.
If you’re planning a wedding in Wisconsin and want someone who understands both the logistics and the heart of your day, I’d love to connect.
💌 Connect with me here to learn how I can help make your wedding day flow effortlessly — wherever your story takes place.