Appleton Wedding Photographer, The Hillside
- Emily Kettner Photography
- 13 minutes ago
- 4 min read
As I stepped into the enchanting atmosphere of Trista and Miles' wedding at The Hillside at Plamann Park, I could feel the excitement buzzing in the air. This wasn’t just another event; it was a celebration brimming with heartfelt moments and unique personal touches that truly reflected their love story. Every detail seemed to whisper a memory waiting to be captured. I had the privilege of being the Appleton wedding photographer for this special day, and it was an experience I won’t soon forget.
From the moment the groom surprised everyone with his rap vows, I knew I was in for something extraordinary. The laughter and joy that filled the air were palpable, and I felt honored to document such a genuine expression of love. As the evening unfolded, a soulful jazz solo filled the reception, creating an intimate atmosphere that brought everyone together. And let’s not forget the delightful soft-serve ice cream that added a sweet touch to the festivities! Every moment was a treasure, and I was there to preserve these memories for Trista and Miles, ensuring they would last a lifetime. This wedding was truly one for the books, and I am grateful to have been a part of it.
The Perfect Venue for a Memorable Day
The Hillside at Plamann Park provided an ideal backdrop for Trista and Miles’ wedding. Nestled in a scenic area of Appleton, this venue offers a natural environment that blends rustic charm with elegant touches. The ceremony took place on a gentle slope surrounded by lush greenery, creating an intimate atmosphere for the couple and their guests.
The venue’s layout allowed for a seamless transition from the ceremony to the reception, with huge windows looking out over the park. As an Appleton Wedding photographer, the natural light and spacious grounds gave me plenty of opportunities to capture candid moments and stunning portraits. The Hillside’s combination of nature and thoughtful design made it a perfect choice for a couple wanting a relaxed yet beautiful celebration.
Unforgettable Vows for this Appleton Wedding Photographer
One of the most memorable moments of the day was when Miles, the groom, chose to rap his vows. This unexpected and creative expression of love brought laughter, tears, and cheers from everyone present. It was a bold and personal way to share his feelings, showing how well the couple knows each other and how much fun they wanted their wedding to be.
This unique vow delivery added a lively energy to the ceremony and set the tone for the rest of the day.

Jazz Solo That Set the Mood at the Reception
At the reception, I was thrilled to witness Miles once again surprise the guests by taking the stage with a jazz band composed of his family and friends. The highlight was his heartfelt saxophone solo dedicated to his bride, which added such a sophisticated and intimate touch to the celebration. The warm, inviting atmosphere he created truly encouraged everyone to relax and savor the evening.
This moment beautifully showcased the couple’s deep love for music and their desire to share that passion with their loved ones. The Hillside's open space and natural acoustics provided the perfect backdrop for this enchanting performance, and as the photographer, I was honored to capture the raw emotion and incredible talent in every shot.

Sweet Treats and Touching Toasts
No wedding is complete without delicious food and heartfelt speeches, and Trista and Miles’ celebration was no exception. Guests enjoyed an open buffet from the local Mexican restaurant Solea, followed by a soft-serve ice cream buffet — a fun and casual treat that added a playful touch to the reception. This choice reflected the couple’s laid-back style and their wish to make everyone feel comfortable and happy.
Capturing the Heartfelt Moments
As I stood there, camera in hand, the toasts from family members unfolded before me. Each speech was deeply moving, filled with stories that brought forth laughter and heartfelt well-wishes. I could feel the warmth in the air as these moments drew everyone closer together, highlighting the strong bonds that support the couple. With every click of my shutter, I aimed to capture the genuine emotions that made this day so special, preserving the essence of their love and the connections shared among family and friends.
Why Choosing the Right Photographer Matters
As the photographer for Trista and Miles’ wedding, I knew that my experience would be crucial in capturing the essence of their special day. My ability to blend into the background allowed me to take natural, unposed photos that truly tell the story of their celebration. From the intimate moments during the vows to the lively jazz and the joyful festivities, each image reflects their unique personalities and the vibrant atmosphere of The Hillside at Plamann Park.
Choosing to work in a venue where I was familiar with the local lighting conditions made a significant impact. The Hillside’s outdoor setting can present challenges for photography, but my expertise ensured that every photo was clear, vibrant, and full of life.
Tips for Couples Planning a Wedding at The Hillside
For couples considering The Hillside at Plamann Park for their wedding, here are some practical tips based on Trista and Miles’ experience:
Plan for weather: The ceremony venue is outdoors, so have a backup plan for moving it inside
Use natural decor: The surroundings are beautiful on their own, so it's not necessary to have draping or backdrops
Coordinate with your photographer: Share your vision and special moments you want captured to get the best results
Consider guest comfort: The ceremony location is often and mostly in full-sun. Think about offering sun umbrellas or scheduling a later ceremony to keep them from sitting in the sun for a longer ceremony
Capturing Moments That Last Forever
Trista and Miles’ wedding was a perfect example of how a couple’s personality and love story can shine through every detail. The Hillside at Plamann Park offered a stunning setting, while the groom’s creative vows and musical talents added unforgettable moments.
As the Appleton wedding photographer, I take great pride in capturing the essence of each couple's special day. These beautiful images serve as a lasting testament to the joy, love, and laughter that fill the air. For those of you planning your own weddings, I hope this celebration inspires you to create a memorable and unique experience that your guests will cherish for years to come.

















