Andrea and Sven’s Culver Academies wedding was the kind of day that feels like a hometown movie, but with better outfits and way more personality. Culver is where Andrea essentially grew up, so this wedding had that rare mix of “deeply meaningful” and “we’re here to have a damn good time.” Add in fall woodsy vibes, plum tones, an unplugged ceremony in the Memorial Chapel, and a reception that basically doubles as a karaoke afterparty, and you’ve got yourself a wedding that never once tried to be boring.
Getting Ready, Disney Energy Included
Coverage kicked off at 12:00pm, and from the start you could tell Andrea’s crew was going to be a blast. Andrea can talk Disney forever, and she had multiple people in the room who were fully ready to match that energy. Some friendships were built through childhood, some through high school memories, and some through actual Disney work history. Basically, if the getting ready suite had a soundtrack, it would have been Disney singalongs mixed with a lot of laughing and “remember when…”
Andrea also had a really important personal detail with her, a remembrance piece for her dad, who passed away in November. Those kinds of items carry weight in the best way. They show up quietly, but they matter loudly. We made sure to photograph the pieces that would be attached to her bouquet, along with the other sentimental detail she mentioned, wearing the same necklace her sister wore at her wedding.
The Ceremony At Culver Academies Memorial Chapel
The ceremony took place inside Culver Academies Memorial Chapel at 4:00pm, and if you’ve ever been inside, you know it’s the kind of space that instantly makes everything feel elevated. The plan was an unplugged ceremony, which we love because it keeps the aisle clear and the guests actually present for the moment.
Andrea and Sven described the ceremony as non-traditional, but still rooted in faith with Bible readings and the “I do’s.” It was the sweet spot. Personal, intentional, and not trying to force anything that didn’t feel like them.
They were still deciding on their exit vibe at the chapel, leaning toward bubbles and leaves or eucalyptus, which honestly fits the whole fall, woodsy aesthetic perfectly.
Portraits With A Nostalgic Twist
This is one of my favorite parts of their plan. Andrea wanted to recreate their first photo together from the night they met, in the same spot at the Lakehouse Grille. That’s the kind of full-circle idea that makes portraits feel like a story instead of “now stand here and smile.”
Andrea also told us she wanted “all the direction,” which is basically our love language. You want the photos to feel natural, but you also want to feel confident in what to do with your hands. We’ve got you.
Reception At Woodcraft Camp: Fun First, Always
After the ceremony, everyone headed to Woodcraft Camp for cocktail hour at 5:00pm, then reception festivities kicked off around 6:00pm. Their three words were FUN, happy, and special, and the reception timeline was built like a blueprint for exactly that.
They planned entrances, then went right into the big moments: first dance, mother-son dance, and a father-daughter dance with Andrea’s brother standing in. Then came a welcome toast before dinner service started.
Speeches were layered in thoughtfully, with the maid of honor, best man, Andrea’s godparents, and then later a gratitude speech from Andrea and Sven after cake cutting. One of the coolest reception moments they planned was a married couples dance that ends with the longest-married couple still on the floor, then that couple shares advice and wisdom. That’s one of those simple ideas that hits hard, because it pulls everyone in and makes the room feel connected.
And then, the chaos portion of the evening. In the best way.
Photo Table Dash, Karaoke, And The Kind Of Party People Talk About
Andrea and Sven wanted candid dance floor photos, and they also planned a “Photo Table Dash” where they try to get a different photo with every table during one song, with different poses as a must. That is pure energy. It gets everyone involved, it builds momentum, and it guarantees the reception gallery is packed with real laughter instead of people sitting down all night.
Karaoke was also a huge part of their story, so it wasn’t a random add-on. It was woven into the night as a real centerpiece of the celebration, with a special kickoff song planned by Andrea and her brother.
Later on, they were planning a second entrance after a dress change, plus bouquet toss, plus more dancing and karaoke. This is the kind of timeline that doesn’t just “have a reception.” It throws a party.
Andrea & Sven’s Wedding Day Vendors:
Photography: @WestleyLeonStudios // Ceremony: Culver Academies Memorial Chapel // Reception: Woodcraft Camp // Day-Of Coordinator: Marianne Schenk // Officiant: Kevin Park // Dress: David’s Bridal // Groom Attire: TBD // Hair: Legacy Salon Culver // Makeup: Christina Cander + TBD // Florals: Silverleaf // Rentals: American Party Rental // Catering: Flik // DJ: DJ Tim (Absolute Entertainment) // Photo Booth: Absolute Entertainment
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