Sydney + Caden’s Winter Wedding at The Tinsmith
Sydney + Caden
a winter wedding at The Tinsmith in Madison, Wisconsin
A Winter Wedding at The Tinsmith in Madison, WI
January 24th in Wisconsin does not mess around.
It was one of those days where the air hurts your face, where twenty below feels very real, and where most people would not volunteer to stand outside for even five minutes.
Sydney and Caden did it anyway.
Their winter wedding at The Tinsmith in Madison, WI was intimate, joyful, and filled with meaning. And despite the bitter cold, they stepped outside onto the Capitol steps for portraits that felt uncommonly warm (and completely worth it).
How They Met
Sydney and Caden first met in middle school at church youth group. It was one of those beginnings that feels small at the time. They did not even remember the exact moment they met.
Years later in high school, they reconnected. Life eventually took them in different directions, including overseas missions and seasons apart. But their hearts never really shifted.
When the timing was finally right, everything clicked into place. It’s a love that’s steady. It is patient. It is the kind of love that waits until the timing fits perfectly.
The Proposal
After months of long distance, Sydney flew into Wisconsin for a visit. As she walked down the airport stairs toward baggage claim, she saw Caden holding a huge sign that read “Mrs. Lee?” and a bouquet of flowers.
Before she could fully process what was happening, he dropped to one knee.
He only had one shot to pull off an airport proposal and he did it perfectly. Coworkers captured the moment. He wanted to start their week together already engaged. She said yes without hesitation.
It was joyful and completely them. (And, yes, the sign made it’s debut at the wedding during the ceremony.)
Favorite Moments from Their Winter Wedding at The Tinsmith
There is something special about a winter wedding at The Tinsmith. On one of the coldest days of the year, the space felt warm, glowing, and full of life.
- The Venue: The Tinsmith’s ability to host a warm and welcoming celebration in the heart of winter is unmatched. With its industrial charm, natural light, and cozy atmosphere, it created the perfect backdrop for a January wedding in Madison. Outside was twenty below. Inside was laughter, candlelight, and a hundred + of their favorite people.
- The Capitol Portraits: Even in bitter cold temperatures, Sydney and Caden braved the wind for portraits at the Wisconsin State Capitol. The air was sharp and freezing, but the photos were stunning. It felt timeless and romantic in the best way. (As a Madison, WI photographer, winter Capitol portraits like these are iconic and unforgettable.)
- The Ceremony: Caden walked both his mom and Sydney’s mom down the aisle before taking his place at the front. His dad officiated the ceremony, adding a deeply personal layer to the day. When Sydney walked down the aisle to an instrumental version of “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” his reaction said everything.
- The Style: Sydney’s Justin Alexander gown was clean and fitted with a cat-eye neckline and button back, paired with espresso satin bridesmaid dresses that felt rich and perfectly seasonal. The gold-framed mirror seating chart and simple floral details kept everything romantic and elegant without feeling overdone.
The whole day felt intimate and intentional: not rushed or performative. Just two people who have known each other for years choosing forever.
Sydney & Caden,
Your story is proof that timing matters.
You met young. You grew separately. And when the season was right, it all came back together exactly as it should.
Thank you for trusting us on a day that required bravery, frozen fingers, and a lot of love. Watching you step into marriage surrounded by family, warmth, and joy was an honor.
Here’s to a lifetime of adventure, laughter, and finding that warmth in each other no matter the season.🤍
Vendor Credits
Venue: The Tinmsith
Photography: The McNiels
Florist: Olson’s Flowers
DJ: Midwest Sound
Dress: Vera’s Bridal
Bridesmaid Attire: Birdy Grey
Why We Love a Winter Wedding at The Tinsmith
If you are considering a winter wedding at The Tinsmith in Madison, this venue truly shines in colder months. Its layout allows for ceremony, portraits, and reception to flow seamlessly indoors, keeping guests comfortable while still offering beautiful natural light and architectural character.
On one of the coldest days of the year, it proved exactly why it is such a strong choice for couples planning a Madison winter wedding.
