Wisconsin Historical Society Wedding | Genevieve + Benjamin

Classic Wisconsin Historical Society Wedding

I am so excited to share photos from Genevieve and Benjamin's wonderful Wisconsin Historical Society wedding in October 2025! The bride and her mom and friends began the day by getting ready with hair and makeup at the Madison Concourse Hotel in Downtown, Madison. Genevieve's mom helped her button her dress and put in her veil. The bride's closest friends were there drinking champagne and making the morning a party while they got ready.

Wedding Portraits at the Capitol and Memorial Union Terrace

The couple and their informal wedding party and immediate family walked from the hotel to the Capitol for some photos. We found a shady spot in front of the white stone building to take family photos, wedding party photos, and couple photos. It was a gorgeous sunny (and hot!) fall day. After taking photos at the Capitol, we stopped by the shores of Lake Mendota at the Memorial Union Terrace for photos by the lake and with the colorful terrace chairs.

Ceremony in the Library at the Wisconsin Historical Society

The couple had their wedding ceremony in the second floor library space at the Wisconsin Historical Society, which was a show stopping space that left guests in awe. There are old books and green lamps and reading desks for the ceremony guests to sit. The bride's twin brother officiated the ceremony and the groom's brother read a poem. A string quartet played music for the ceremony. After the ceremony, we got to take photos on the exterior colonnade of the Historical Society, which is one of the most striking features of the building. Rows of stone columns make for an awesome photo backdrop.

Cocktail Hour on the Outdoor Terrace

The couple had cocktail hour on the outdoor east terrace. After a lovely outdoor golden hour cocktail hour, dinner was plated by Heritage in the lobby while guests sipped champagne and friends and family toasted the couple. The night ended with cutting cake, desserts, drinks, dancing and so much love. If you are looking for the perfect classic and elegant Madison wedding venue, the Wisconsin Historical Society might be the right fit for you!

Why Couples are Choosing the Wisconsin Historical Society for their Wedding Venue

As a former architect, I can totally understand why couples are drawn to the Wisconsin Historical Society headquarters in Madison! The venue has timeless architecture and a one-of-a-kind atmosphere on the University of Wisconsin–Madison campus. The historic building offers a stunning backdrop for weddings, from the grand staircase, the columns in the lobby, to the breathtaking library reading room. The venue’s design and classic details create a romantic setting that feels both sophisticated and uniquely Wisconsin. With multiple ceremony and reception spaces, including the outdoor east terrace overlooking campus, the lobby, and the reading room, couples love the flexibility to craft a celebration that feels personal while surrounded by history and beauty.

VENDORS:

Photographer: Brianna Kraft Photography

Coordination: Qjancola

Venue: Wisconsin Historical Society

Catering: Heritage Catering

Cake: Rolling Pin Bake Shop

Lounge Rentals: Velvet Rentals

DJ: Celebrations Madison

Getting Ready Hotel: The Madison Concourse Hotel

Hair & Makeup: Lotus Artistry Studio

Transportation: Badger Bus

Florals: Klein’s 

Quartet: Vox String Quartet

Wisconsin Historical Society Venue Information

Guest Capacity: 200

Learn more on their website: https://www.wisconsinhistory.org/eventrentals 

See their Wedding Guide & Pricing 

Location: 816 State Street, Madison, WI 

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