Coast

Engagement Party

Our Wedding Day

Comeau Residence

Skup

St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Cathedral

Ceremony

Mitchell Park Conservatory "The Domes"

Cocktail Hour

Greenhouse No. 7

Reception

Summer

Nina Arezina and Eric Schaefer

Our Wedding

Our Story

Wedding Party

Q + A

St Sava Serbian Orthodox Cathedral

<a href="https://www.stsava-milw.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Church website</a>

A Serbian Orthodox wedding Skup Svatova is&nbsp;a pre-ceremony celebration that usually takes place at the homes of both the bride and groom.&nbsp;Because Nina and Eric live together (and far from the wedding venues)our skup will be at the Comeau Residence, home of the Nina's Aunt and Uncle. Here's what happens during a Serbian Orthodox wedding Skup:&nbsp;Getting ready:&nbsp;The bride and groom's parties get ready at their respective homes.Caravan:&nbsp;The groom's party drives to the bride's home (or place where Skup is being held) in a caravan of honking horns and waving flags.&nbsp;Merging:&nbsp;The parties merge into one big celebration at the bride's home (or where skup is being held).&nbsp;&nbsp;Buying of the Bride:&nbsp;The groom's party may "negotiate" with the bride's family for the right to marry her.Food, drink, music, and dancing:&nbsp;There's food, drink, music, and dancing with both families until it's time to leave for the ceremony.

The Ceremony

The marriage ceremony of the Serbian Orthodox Church is filled with symbolism. Each part of the ceremony has a special meaning. The RingsFirst part of the ceremony is the betrothal, which the priest takes the rings and with a triple blessing (representing the Holy Trinity), puts them on the couple's right hands as a token of their mutual promise of loyalty and devotion to one another.The Serbian Orthodox Church prefers that the wedding ring be worn on the right hand because we cross ourselves with the right hand.The rings are exchanged three times, by the Kum, signifying that the bride and groom give themselves to each other throughout life, following the path of the Holy Trinity. The exchange also represents the times in the marriage when the weaknesses of one will be compensated by the strengths of the other. The CandlesAt the beginning of the betrothal, the bride and groom are given candles, which are held throughout the ceremony. The candles symbolize the Light of Christ, the spiritual willingness of the couple to follow the Light, and His blessing during the sacrament. Joining of the Right HandsThe right hand of the bride and groom are joined and bound with a scarf, when the priest reads the prayer that beseeches God to "join these thy servants, unite them in one mind and one flesh." The hands are kept joined throughout the service to symbolize the "oneness" of the couple. The CrowningThe rite of crowning is the apex of the wedding ceremony. The crowns represent the glory and the honor with which God crowns the couple during the sacrament. The bride and groom are crowned as king and queen of their own kingdom, which they will rule wisdom, justice, love and integrity. The Common CupThe rite of crowning is followed by the reading of the Epistle and the Gospel. The Gospel reading describes the marriage of Cana at Galilee, which was attended and blessed by Christ, and for which He reserved His first miracle. There He converted water into wine and gave it to the newlyweds. In remembrance of this blessing, wine is given to the couple. This is the "Common Cup" of life, denoting a life of harmony. The couple from that moment on will share everything in life - its joys as well as its sorrows. Their joys will be doubled and their sorrows halved, because they will be shared. The Ceremonial WalkAs the priest leads the bride and groom in a circle around the table, the husband and wife take their first steps as a married couple. The circle symbolizes the Christian way centering on Christ, as well as the couple's pledge that they will preserve the marital tie forever. The triple circling is in honor of the Holy Trinity and represents eternity. The BlessingAt the end of the ceremony, the priest blesses the bride and groom, that they will walk in peace and life righteously by the commandments of God.

KOLO

You are going to see this funny dance throughout the day, it's called the "kolo" (koh-low). It's a traditional Serbian dance performed at Serbian functions. If you would like to learn the kolo to join in on the fun,<a href="https://youtu.be/HdcACqkWwg4?si=ccxvQ7ZdILkPhSsX" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> here is a simple tutorial video and it's easy to learn</a>.

Serbian Traditions

Airport

It is recommended that guests fly into Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE) as it is 10-15 minutes from all wedding activities and hotel blocks.

Guests can use the booking link above to book rooms or they can call the hotel directly at 414-427-4800 and hit option 0 and ask for the Arezina/Schaefer Wedding block rate.&nbsp;&nbsp; Group booking link expires on August 6, 2025 at 11:59pm. We have blocked suites at this hotel for larger parties and families traveling with kids. Rooms are significantly larger than standard rooms at this hotel. Room options:Standard King: $119/nightStandard Room with two Queen beds: $119/nightKing Studio Suite with additional sofa bed: $129/nightTwo Queen Bed Studio Suite with additional sofa bed: $149/night

Hampton Inn & Suites Milwaukee/Franklin

Guests can use the booking link or they can call Kasey at the hotel directly at 414-764-7980 and ask for the Arezina/Schaefer wedding block rate. Group booking link expires on August 5, 2025. Close to the airport and great for couples or individuals without kids as the rooms are standard size. Room options: Standard King bed: $119/nightStandard Two Queen beds: $119/night

TownePlace Suites Milwaukee Oak Creek

Hotels and Travel

ShoppingHistoric Third WardExplore unique boutiques, galleries, and specialty shops in this artsy district.<a href="https://historicthirdward.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Historic&nbsp;Third&nbsp;Ward</a> Milwaukee Public MarketA vibrant market with local vendors selling food, crafts, and specialty items.<a href="https://milwaukeepublicmarket.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Milwaukee&nbsp;Public&nbsp;Market</a> BayshoreA premier shopping destination featuring a mix of retail stores, dining options, and entertainment.<a href="https://www.bayshoretowncenter.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Bayshore</a> Farmers MarketsShorewood Farmers MarketEnjoy local produce, artisan goods, and community atmosphere.<a href="https://shorewoodfarmersmarket.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Shorewood&nbsp;Farmers&nbsp;Market</a> West Allis Farmers MarketA bustling market with fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts. ToursLakefront Brewery TourTake a fun and informative tour of this popular brewery, complete with tastings.<a href="https://lakefrontbrewery.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Lakefront&nbsp;Brewery</a> Harley-Davidson Museum TourDiscover the history of Harley-Davidson with engaging exhibits and guided tours.<a href="https://www.h-dmuseum.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Harley-Davidson&nbsp;Museum</a> MuseumsMilwaukee Art MuseumVisit this architectural gem and enjoy its vast art collections and exhibits.<a href="https://mam.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Milwaukee&nbsp;Art&nbsp;Museum</a> Discovery WorldA hands-on science and technology museum that’s great for all ages.<a href="https://discoveryworld.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Discovery&nbsp;World</a> Milwaukee Public MuseumExplore extensive natural and human history exhibits, including the famous Streets of Old Milwaukee.<a href="https://www.mpm.edu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Milwaukee&nbsp;Public&nbsp;Museum</a> ParksGrant/Lakefront ParkEnjoy beautiful views of Lake Michigan, walking paths, and picnic areas.<a href="https://www.visitmilwaukee.org/listing/grant-park/3048/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Lakefront&nbsp;Park</a> Kletzsch ParkA picturesque park with walking trails, picnic spots, and the scenic Kletzsch Park Dam.<a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://county.milwaukee.gov/files/county/parks-department/Park-Maps/Kletzsch1.pdf&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi74pHbzaeJAxXovokEHTmIMngQFnoECFAQAQ&amp;usg=AOvVaw0q6oXhJcCLzrWZFadWMCRq" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Kletzsch&nbsp;Park</a> Humboldt ParkA community park featuring a lagoon, picnic areas, and recreational facilities.<a href="https://www.humboldtparkmilwaukee.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Humboldt&nbsp;Park</a> Top RestaurantsSanfordA fine dining experience offering contemporary American cuisine with seasonal ingredients.<a href="https://sanfordrestaurant.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Sanford</a> Lake Park BistroA French restaurant with beautiful views of Lake Michigan, known for its classic dishes.<a href="https://lakeparkbistro.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Lake&nbsp;Park&nbsp;Bistro</a> Pizzeria PiccolaRenowned for its Neapolitan-style pizzas and cozy atmosphere.<a href="https://pizzeriapiccola.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Pizzeria&nbsp;Piccola</a> The Capital GrilleAn upscale steakhouse offering a fine selection of wines and expertly prepared dishes.<a href="https://www.thecapitalgrille.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The&nbsp;Capital&nbsp;Grille</a> Kettle BlackA modern restaurant known for its creative brunch options and inviting ambiance.<a href="https://www.kettleblackmke.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Kettle&nbsp;Black</a> Blue's EggA popular spot for brunch, known for its inventive breakfast dishes and vibrant atmosphere.<a href="https://www.bluesegg.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Blue's&nbsp;Egg</a> BarsThe Safe HouseA unique spy-themed bar with a creative menu and fun atmosphere.<a href="https://safe-house.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The&nbsp;Safe&nbsp;House</a> The Broken Bat Brewery &amp; GrillA sports-themed brewery featuring craft beers and a menu with pub favorites.<a href="https://www.brokenbatbrewery.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The&nbsp;Broken&nbsp;Bat</a> Cactus ClubA lively bar known for live music and a great selection of drinks, located in Bay View.<a href="https://www.cactusclubmilwaukee.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Cactus&nbsp;Club</a> Good City BrewingA popular brewery in the heart of downtown with a spacious taproom and outdoor seating.<a href="https://www.goodcitybrewing.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Good&nbsp;City&nbsp;Brewing</a> Comet CafeA cozy spot offering a relaxed atmosphere, known for its comfort food and drinks.<a href="https://www.cometcafemke.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Comet&nbsp;Cafe</a> Milwaukee’s Famous AttractionsHarley-Davidson MuseumA must-visit for motorcycle enthusiasts, showcasing the history of this iconic brand.<a href="https://www.h-dmuseum.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Harley-Davidson&nbsp;Museum</a> Basilica of St. JosaphatA stunning historic church known for its beautiful architecture and interior.<a href="https://www.basilicasaintjosaphat.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Basilica&nbsp;of&nbsp;St. Josaphat</a> Milwaukee County ZooA family-friendly attraction featuring a wide variety of animals and interactive exhibits.<a href="https://milwaukeezoo.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Zoo</a> Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory (The Domes)A unique attraction featuring three different domes showcasing various plant species.<a href="https://milwaukeedomes.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The&nbsp;Domes</a> Interactive ActivitiesAXE MKETry your hand at axe throwing in a fun, competitive environment.<a href="https://axemke.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">AXE&nbsp;MKE</a> Brew City PickleballEnjoy pickleball at this dedicated facility offering courts and lessons.<a href="https://brewcitypickleball.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Brew&nbsp;City&nbsp;Pickleball</a> Five Star ZiplinesExperience thrilling zipline adventures in a unique outdoor setting.<a href="https://fivestarzip.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Five&nbsp;Star&nbsp;Ziplines</a> Arcade at Dave and BustersRelive your childhood with classic arcade games and pinball machines.<a href="https://www.daveandbusters.com/us/en/about/locations/wauwatosa" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Dave and Busters Wauwatosa</a> Kite Flying at Veterans ParkEnjoy kite flying at this spacious park with beautiful lake views.<a href="https://county.milwaukee.gov/EN/Parks/Explore/Lakefront/VeteransPark" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Veterans&nbsp;Park</a>

Nina & Eric

Nina & Eric

Photos