The Blog
Stout’s Island Lodge as an adult summer camp 🙂
Minnesota Wedding Photographer
When John Sheehan and Cayla envisioned their wedding, they dreamed of a place that felt timeless, private, and filled with natural beauty. Their search led them to Stout’s Island Lodge, a historic Adirondack-style resort nestled on Red Cedar Lake in Birchwood, Wisconsin. Known as the Island of Happy Days, this secluded destination has been hosting unforgettable gatherings for over a century.
As a wedding photographer, capturing a love story at Stout’s Island Lodge is a dream come true. The mix of lakeside serenity, historic architecture, and island charm creates the perfect backdrop for photos that feel both natural and cinematic.
The Perfect Backdrop: Birchwood, Wisconsin
Just a short drive from Rice Lake, the lodge sits on its own private 12-acre island, accessible only by ferry. From the moment guests arrive, the sense of escape is undeniable. The main lodge, cozy cabins, and plenty of waterfront provide a great spot for your guests to enjoy themselves for a weekend.
For John and Cayla, this meant every part of their wedding weekend—from rehearsal dinners to late-night campfires—could be captured in an intimate, story-driven way.
Wedding Photography Highlights
Morning on the Island
The day began with a morning swim. Everyone, including the dog jumped in and I was able to capture it via drone photo and through my camera. I’ve never been at a wedding where we started the day off with a swim, but I can vouch that it was a blast and also a blast to capture.
After, everyone headed back up to the cafeteria for breakfast and some lawn games. One of the most fun and unique things about Stout’s Island Lodge is that it feels like a summer camp for adults. With food and beverage available on the island and catered by the staff, it’s an incredible place to have a wedding with your friends for a weekend. Your best friends crashing in cabins near you and all sorts of summer activities like boating, fishing, lawn games, and many quiet spots to read in case you’re a bit of an introvert. While the Island doesn’t’ appear large on google maps i can attest you can walk about 25 minutes from one end to the furthest point.
The Ceremony
Held on the South Lawn, the ceremony overlooked Red Cedar Lake. Surrounded by water, the setting created a serene, almost magical atmosphere. I sub contracted a guest to take some pictures with the drone while I took photos with my camera so we were able to capture every smile, tear, and glance was captured with an authentic documentary approach.
When I say subcontract, I mean asked someones spouse to fly the drone and they accepted but their spouse reluctantly asked them to reconsider. I don’t know why this happens so much, if someone asked me to fly a drone during a wedding ceremony vs sit through a wedding ceremony I would 10/10 fly a drone. Maybe that’s because I’ve been to so many wedding ceremony’s -also maybe the spouse doesn’t want to sit alone during the wedding ceremony. That could be a reason I’m getting some pushback. Anyhow…the ceremony went off without a hitch and as John and Cayla exited we got a big group drone shot. John had stated on our final calls before the wedding “Tim I don’t to be standing there while you’re fumbling with the drone taking 5 minutes to get it in the air while everyone is just standing around.”
I made sure this wasn’t an issue and as they exited I grabbed my shots with my camera and had a guest I asked to fly the drone pop the photos. I had him take the drone off mid ceremony from a distance out of earshot so we’d be able to grab the photo without any delay.
Reception in the Tent
As the sun set, guests gathered inside the tent for dinner and dancing. One of the best parts was this DJ who brought a saxophonist from Eau Claire, WI. They had great dance music along with a fog machine and then a great sax player. It was a vibe. Truly.
Drone Photography
One of the highlights of the day was capturing drone photography of the couple standing on the island bridge as the sun dipped low over the lake. These sweeping aerial views showcased the unique beauty of the venue and gave John and Cayla epic, cinematic memories.
Full-Day and Full-Weekend Coverage
At Tim Thornburg Photography, I believe weddings are more than just a single day—they’re an entire experience. That’s why I offer both:
- Full-Day Coverage
From early morning preparations to the final sparkler exit, every chapter of the wedding day is documented. - Full-Weekend Coverage
Many couples hosting weddings at Stout’s Island Lodge choose to make it a weekend celebration. With full-weekend coverage, I capture rehearsal dinners, welcome parties, morning brunches, and all of the in-between moments that make your wedding experience unique. - Drone Photography
Adding a drone perspective elevates wedding storytelling. At a venue as breathtaking as Stout’s Island Lodge, aerial images highlight not only the couple but the beauty of the entire island.
Final Thoughts
John and Cayla’s wedding at Stout’s Island Lodge in Birchwood, WI was a perfect mix of elegance, romance, and lakeside adventure. From morning prep to late-night dancing, every detail came together to create an unforgettable celebration.
If you’re planning your own wedding at Stout’s Island Lodge—or anywhere in Wisconsin or Minnesota—I’d love to help you capture your story. Whether you want full-day coverage, a weekend package, or breathtaking drone photography, I’ll make sure your memories are preserved beautifully.
Looking for a wedding photographer at Stout’s Island Lodge?
Let’s talk about your wedding plans! Contact Tim Thornburg Photography today to check availability and learn more about full-day and full-weekend packages.
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