A Heartfelt Waterfront Elopement in Kewaunee, Wisconsin

Newlyweds Garrett and Bailee walking along Selner Park Beach in Kewaunee, Wisconsin for their elopement portraits

An intimate celebration near Door County filled with love, family, and Lake Michigan views

When couples plan a Door County elopement, they often dream of quiet moments by the water, golden sunlight, and a day that feels entirely their own. Garrett and Bailee’s Kewaunee elopement was exactly that—intimate, heartfelt, and full of family, laughter, and connection.

Just south of Door County, Kewaunee offers charming small towns, scenic Lake Michigan views, and hidden beaches—ideal for couples seeking a romantic Door County elopement location without the crowds.

For inspiration on planning your own elopement, check out our Door County Elopement Guide for tips on locations, photographers, and vendors.

From Graduate School to “I Do”

Garrett and Bailee’s story began in graduate school at LSU, where they met as part of the same research group. Long days in the lab turned into coffee runs, shared jokes, and eventually, a love that grew stronger with every adventure. Garrett later proposed in Baton Rouge on the Mississippi River levee—just as the sun was setting over the water.

That peaceful moment overlooking the river became the inspiration for their wedding day vision: something calm, natural, and surrounded by water.

A Cozy Airbnb Ceremony Near Kewaunee

They chose the Hygge Lake Cabin, a serene waterfront Airbnb just outside Kewaunee. With five acres of privacy and lakefront views, it was ideal for an intimate Door County elopement.

The morning began surrounded by family and their dog, Sunny. Doors Fleur Orchard provided lush florals, and bridal styling was handled by By Grace Bridal Artistry and Door County Makeup by Gabriela. Garrett’s brother Bryce officiated, making the ceremony deeply personal.

Romantic Beach Portraits at Selner Park in Kewaunee

After their vows, we ventured to Selner Park Beach in Kewaunee for their elopement portraits. With sweeping views of Lake Michigan, soft sand, and golden light reflecting off the water, it was the perfect spot to capture their first moments as husband and wife.

Garrett and Bailee walked along the shoreline hand in hand, laughing and taking it all in. The gentle waves and quiet atmosphere created such a peaceful rhythm to the afternoon. Away from everything else, they could just be—relaxed, joyful, and entirely themselves.

Selner Park is one of Kewaunee’s hidden gems, offering a quiet stretch of beach and those dreamy Wisconsin coastal views that make elopements here feel so intimate and timeless.

A Private Chef Dinner to End the Night

As the sun dipped low, the celebration continued back at the Airbnb, where Crave Cuisine, a local private chef and bakery, crafted a delicious dinner experience for the couple and their family. The meal felt as personal as the ceremony itself—gourmet dishes served family-style, laughter echoing through the cabin, and toasts shared under the glow of soft light.

The evening ended quietly, with the sounds of the lake outside and their closest people gathered together. It was the perfect reflection of who they are—grounded, joyful, and deeply connected.

Why They Chose to Elope

For Garrett and Bailee, eloping wasn’t about running away—it was about creating space for what truly mattered. They wanted to celebrate their love surrounded only by their closest family, without the pressure or performance of a traditional wedding day.

As Bailee shared, “We wanted a day focused on us and our love, surrounded by our absolute closest family… a smaller, less ‘center of attention’ day just felt better for us.”

Every choice, from their private lakeside ceremony to their intimate dinner, reflected that intention.

Planning Your Own Kewaunee or Door County Elopement

If you’re dreaming of a day that’s relaxed, romantic, and authentically you, consider eloping in Kewaunee or Door County. Between peaceful waterfront cabins, charming small towns, and hidden-gem beaches like Selner Park, this area is made for couples who crave connection over production.

Whether you’re imagining a sunrise ceremony, a sunset dinner with your favorite people, or quiet portraits by the water—your day can be exactly what you want it to be.

If you’re dreaming of an intimate Door County elopement filled with authentic moments and stunning lakeside portraits, hire Jessie Schira Photo to capture every emotion and detail of your special day.