Today, let’s embark on a visual journey through one of the most joyous weddings we’ve had the pleasure to capture. Meet Haley and Dan, a couple with an insatiable appetite for fun, who decided to tie the knot with a cryptid carnival-themed celebration that radiated whimsy and pure delight.
Before we dive into the enchanting details, let’s demystify the term “cryptid” for those not acquainted. Cryptids are creatures or beings whose existence is hinted at but not confirmed – think Bigfoot, Loch Ness Monster, or the enigmatic Mothman. These mysterious entities set the stage for a wedding that was not just a union of two souls but a celebration of boundless joy.
The festivities commenced with a ceremony by the shores of Madison’s Lake Mendota, creating an intimate atmosphere that paved the way for what was to become an unforgettable day. Haley, initially donned in traditional wedding attire, later dazzled in an embroidered floral print wedding dress during the grand reception, staying true to their ultimate goal – to make their wedding fun to all their cherished guests.
One standout element of their celebration was the ice cream “cocktail” hour, a clever twist on the traditional cocktail hour, paying homage to Haley’s late grandmother, who was an advocate of having ice cream before dinner.
Now, let’s talk games – a central theme in this carnival of joy. Haley and Dan’s artistic friends went above and beyond in creating carnival games that seamlessly blended the mysterious world of cryptids with the couple’s desire for a fun-filled celebration. Imagine pinning the tail on a cryptid, tossing rings onto the Loch Ness Monster, or aiming Nerf guns at Mothman targets, with successful shots lighting up bulbs in a burst of celebration.
Dressing up wasn’t just encouraged; it was a vital part of the merriment. Inflatable dinosaurs, chainmail, and cryptid costumes flooded the dance floor, setting the stage for laughter and dance to the beats of pop punk tunes. And let’s not forget the giant Bigfoot photo op, a masterpiece hand-painted by a friend.
Creativity took center stage with a cryptid-making contest, where guests crafted their own mysterious beings. Children at the wedding played the role of judges, deciding the winner who walked away with a locally-sourced gift pack.
The wedding cake, a giant Hostess cupcake with a Bigfoot cake topper baked by Haley’s sister, added a sweet touch to the day, reflecting the whimsical theme seamlessly. In a touching moment, Haley’s father picked out the first dance song, “Puff the Magic Dragon,” infusing the wedding with a melody that perfectly encapsulated the fun-loving spirit of their day.
As a photographer, capturing the infectious joy, laughter, and enchantment of Haley and Dan’s cryptid carnival wedding was an absolute pleasure. It was a celebration where love met creativity, tradition met whimsy, and every click of the camera immortalized a moment of unbridled fun. Here’s to Haley and Dan, and here’s to embracing the extraordinary in the pursuit of a joyous journey of love.
