Olivia & Graham
September 6, 2025 | Chippewa Retreat Resort, Manitowish Waters
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Some weddings feel like they were always meant to happen exactly where they do. Olivia and Graham’s September wedding at Chippewa Retreat Resort was one of those—rooted in family history, shaped by the Northwoods, and brought to life with effortless, heartfelt style.
From a lakeside ceremony to poolside cocktails and a warm, lively reception in White Oak Lodge, their day unfolded as a full wedding weekend experience that was relaxed, beautiful, and deeply personal.
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A Dream Years in the Making
For Olivia, Chippewa Retreat was never just another venue option—it was part of her story long before she met Graham. The Northwoods of Wisconsin has always held a special place in her family’s heart. With a family cabin in nearby Minocqua and parents who were married on the Manitowish Waters chain of lakes decades ago, the area was woven into her childhood memories. Summer boat rides often passed by Chippewa Retreat, and each time Olivia would think, “Gosh, I would love to get married here someday.”
When Graham proposed, there was little hesitation. They scheduled a visit to Chippewa Retreat, and from the moment they arrived, they knew it was the place. After their tour, the couple headed to Pea Patch for celebratory cocktails and, with family gathered around the table, emailed John to officially reserve their date: September 6, 2025. A simple moment—yet one Olivia says she’ll always remember.
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Lakeside “I Do’s” & a Northwoods Flow
Olivia and Graham exchanged vows on the Lakeview Lawn, with the water and towering pines creating a naturally stunning backdrop. The ceremony flowed seamlessly into poolside cocktails at the Swim Club, where guests mingled, laughed, and soaked in the late-summer Northwoods atmosphere.
As evening settled in, everyone gathered inside White Oak Lodge for dinner and dancing. With its soaring ceilings, warm wood tones, and inviting bar, the space needed very little added décor—letting the architecture and energy of the celebration shine.
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Bohemian Details, Made Personal
Olivia’s design vision leaned bohemian and organic, with a rich mix of colors in the florals and décor. Inspired by ideas she gathered on social media, she layered in personal touches while letting the venue’s natural beauty do the heavy lifting. One of her favorite parts of planning? Realizing how little was needed. “The venue is so beautiful as is,” she shared. “From the lakefront lodge to the bar and the high ceilings—everything already feels special.” The result was a wedding that felt elevated yet relaxed, polished yet deeply personal—perfectly in tune with the Northwoods setting.
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Vendors, Community & Trust
Living in the Twin Cities, Olivia and Graham brought their photographer with them from Minnesota, while most of their other vendors were local to the area. Many were recommended by John, with hair and makeup requiring the most searching due to limited availability. In the end, everything came together seamlessly. “I give all of our vendors a HUGE round of applause,” Olivia said. “Not a single bad word to say.”
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Advice for Future Chippewa Retreat Couples
Olivia’s advice is one we couldn’t agree with more:
“Trust those around you and don’t sweat the small stuff. It really does go by in a flash. At the end of the day, it’s about your love and enjoying the company of those who came to celebrate and support you.”
And if something isn’t perfect?
“If the sun doesn’t shine or the flowers aren’t exactly right, I promise—you’ll be the only one who notices.”
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A Weekend to Remember
Olivia and Graham’s wedding weekend was a beautiful reminder of what makes Chippewa Retreat so special: meaningful locations, natural beauty, and space to truly be present with the people you love. We’re so honored to have been part of their story—and so grateful they chose to begin their marriage here, in the heart of the Northwoods.
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Vendor List
Photographer: Lizzy Fasching Photography
Videographer: Maegan Marie Photography
Florals: Trigs’ Floral
Catering: Julie Kay’s Kitchen
DJ: Covenant Audio LLC
Hair: Magic Beauty Weddings (The Magician Beautician)
Makeup: Beauty by Auohap (Pixie Dust Salon)
Dress: Xandy’s Bridal House
Lizzy Fasching Photography
Lizzy Fasching Photography
