October 7, 2025
Engagement Session in Downtown Madison, WI
When I say engagement photos can be personal, fun, and uniquely you—Emily and Alex’s session in downtown Madison, WI is the perfect example. From sharing ice cream cones at Kilwins on State Street to a dreamy picnic in Period Garden Park, their engagement session was full of laughter, love, and sweet little moments that tell their story.
How They Met + The Proposal
Emily and Alex’s story started four years ago when mutual friends introduced them at a garage party (those friends are still together too—love that!). Since then, they’ve built a life together with their dog and cat, enjoying board games, hiking, and even building Legos.
Fast forward to Memorial Day weekend: Alex proposed in front of the Wisconsin State Capitol on a sunny Friday afternoon. Afterwards, they celebrated with ice cream at Kilwins on State Street—a tradition that made its way into their engagement photos too! The next day, Alex had planned a surprise gathering at Drumlin Ridge Winery where all of Emily’s family and friends were waiting to celebrate.
Kilwins Ice Cream Engagement Photos | Madison, WI
Ice cream shops always make the sweetest (pun intended) backdrop for engagement photos, and Kilwins in downtown Madison couldn’t have been more perfect. Between the warm glow of the shop, the colorful backdrop of State Street, and Emily + Alex’s goofy, smile-filled personalities, it felt like a natural fit.
Instead of stiff poses, we focused on playful moments—sharing a cone, laughing between bites, and sneaking a kiss while standing outside the shop. These photos perfectly captured who they are as a couple: lighthearted, fun, and always ready to laugh together.
Picnic Engagement Photos at Period Garden Park | Madison, WI
From the energy of State Street, we wandered over to Period Garden Park for something more romantic and quiet. This historic park is a hidden gem in downtown Madison, with lush gardens and charming details that make it an ideal spot for couples who want a cozy, intimate feel for their engagement photos.
Emily + Alex set up a simple picnic, complete with golden-hour light filtering through the trees. They laughed, cuddled on the blanket, and even shared some sweet “in-between” moments that felt natural and unposed. It was the perfect contrast to the lively ice cream shop photos.
Madison Engagement Photography Tips
Thinking about your own engagement photos in downtown Madison? Here are a few takeaways from Emily + Alex’s session:
🍦 Add in a meaningful spot – Whether it’s where you got engaged or your go-to date night treat, locations like Kilwins Ice Cream add personality and nostalgia to your photos.
🌿 Mix city + nature – Pair a lively downtown location with a quieter park like Period Garden Park for variety in your gallery.
✨ Stay true to your vibe – Emily and Alex kept things relaxed and playful, which made their photos genuine and full of emotion.
What’s Next for Emily + Alex
I’m so excited to celebrate with Emily + Alex again next summer when they tie the knot at Fields Reserve in Stoughton, WI! With a day full of fun, friends, and heartfelt moments, I already know it’s going to be unforgettable.For now, here’s a peek at their Downtown Madison engagement photos:
👉 View Emily + Alex’s Engagement Gallery Here
Creative Team :
Photographer : Danielle Lund Photography
Venue – Fields Reserve in Stoughton WI , Period Garden Park in Madison, WI, Kilwins Ice cream shop
Wedding dress – Premiere Couture
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