Libby & John's Elegant Weekend Celebration
There’s something undeniably timeless about the pairing of gold and black—a classic combination that evokes elegance, warmth, and just the right amount of drama. For Libby and John, these rich tones weren’t simply a stylistic choice; they became the perfect palette to honor a love story shaped by deep friendships, global adventures, and joyful spontaneity. Their wedding weekend unfolded with unforgettable moments and thoughtful details, creating a celebration that felt both grounded and magical.
Black & Gold Wedding Invitations with Thai Marbled Momi Paper
Libby and John’s invitation suite made a striking first impression, beautifully setting the tone for the weekend celebration. Wrapped in black and gold Thai marbled Momi paper, the invitations offered guests an early glimpse of the wedding’s aesthetic. With its swirling black and shimmering gold pattern, this handmade paper embodied tradition and modernity, much like the couple themselves. The fibrous texture, tactile quality of the Momi paper, and clean and bold typography gave guests an early taste of the deeply personal touches that would continue throughout the wedding festivities.
Personalized Wedding Ceremony Program with Guest Spotlights
Libby and John’s ceremony program was more than an itinerary—it celebrated global friendships, serendipitous connections, and meaningful memories. With warmth and wit, the couple wove heartfelt reflections and laugh-out-loud anecdotes that gave guests a peek into the couple’s shared history.
One favorite section, “Tall Tales from the Tall Minglers,” highlighted a few standout guests in attendance. Among them:
- Jouke Rom Colthoff, who met John in college at UW–Madison, traveled from The Netherlands to celebrate.
- Libby’s Semester at Sea adventure led to lifelong friendships with Danielle Mella (a bridesmaid), Samantha Bunting, and Cristina Scarpaci—who all flew in from different corners of the U.S.
- And because every good ceremony has an element of suspense and mystery, the question of “Who will officiate?” was playfully included. While Keith Butala, the couple’s dear friend who was there from the beginning of their love story, was asked to officiate, life had other plans—Keith and his wife, Renee, were expecting their first child that very week. Enter Tim Van de Kamp, lovingly dubbed the “relief officiant,” who brought humor and heart to the ceremony. When asked if he’d step in, Tim replied, “Can I wear a funny hat?”
- The couple’s program also celebrated Libby’s semester in Rome and included stories of friends, travel, and the unexpected turns that led them to this day.
From Rome to Madison, Amsterdam to the open sea, Libby and John’s ceremony was not just about two people saying “I do”—it was a celebration of every person and every twist of fate that brought them there. The celebration was a true mosaic of past chapters and beloved characters from their story—woven together with love, laughter, and maybe even a funny hat.
Thoughtful Reception Details
classic with a twist, elevated but not too serious
Libby and John’s reception was filled with warm lighting, clinking glasses, and genuine fun. And the signage? Equally memorable. A favorite: the bar sign perfectly captured the couple’s vibe.
“Too much of anything is bad, but too much champagne is just right.”
—F. Scott Fitzgerald
Creative Table Numbers That Tell the Couple's Story
The attention to detail didn’t end at the ceremony. At the reception, guests were treated to a series of clever table numbers, each tied to personal trivia or quirky memories from Libby and John’s relationship. In lieu of traditional table numbers, every table had a fun fact that matched the number on display. A few crowd favorites included:
- 1 – Number of spin classes John joined with Libby (he lost his breakfast after).
- 3 – The number of drinks Libby had before their first date
- 13 – The number of days they’ll honeymoon across South Africa, Botswana, and Zimbabwe
- 15 – The number of movies John has dragged Libby to (with extra-large popcorn, always)
- 17 – The number of hours John waited to text Libby after their first date
- 22 – The number of venues they toured before finding the one.
- 25 – The date in February when they got engaged.
These details offered guests a fun and intimate way to learn more about the couple’s story—sparking conversation and laughter all night.
Your Story, Your Way
If you believe that every detail matters and your celebration deserves a design as unique as your story, let’s create something unforgettable together. From luxurious papers and hand-selected materials to personalized touches tailored to your aesthetic, I specialize in one-of-a-kind invitations and day-of details that reflect your style and set the tone for your event. With an emphasis on fine craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and a seamless experience from start to finish, you’ll feel supported—and inspired—every step of the way.
Features
ADDY® Design Award Winner
Metallic Gold on Stark Black
Bold Typography
Black & Gold Thai Marbled Momi Paper
Welcome Message for Out-Of-Town Guests
Ceremony Programs
Reception Signage
Custom Table Numbers
Dinner Menu
Bar Menu
And OH MY GOSH! It's like you were inside my head - That is EXACTLY what I was picturing! They are SO PRETTY and perfect! We absolutely love them. Wow. Amazing! Thanks again for EVERYTHING! You are so great, and so are your designs.
LIBBY & JOHN
CREATIVE PARTNERS
Stationery & Paper Goods: Sugar Pear Design | Ceremony & Reception Venue: Overture Center for the Arts | Rehearsal Venue: Brocach Irish Pub | Event Planner: Alex Normington | Photography: Laura Zastrow Photography | Reception Entertainment: Velocity Band, The University of Wisconsin Marching Band | Floral: daffodil*parker | Catering: Catering a Fresco | Ice Cream: Kelley Country Creamery | Bridal Attire: Mira Couture | Hair Styling: Village Cutting Room | Make-up: Barb Zanzig | Bridesmaids’ Attire: Badgley Mischka | Gentlemen Attire: Men’s Warehouse | Engagement Ring: Vintage | Wedding Bands: Voyagers Jewelry Design | Linen: Event Essentials | Transportation: Badger Coach Buses | Stationery Photography: Rankin Images, Twig & Olive Photography | Editorial Feature: Wisconsin Bride Magazine, Wedding Planner & Guide, NBC WMTV 15




