With all of the flooding that happened earlier this month, I was worried about Drake and Allison’s day. I saw the closure notice that shut down all traffic to the island. I saw the water slowly rising to the Dousman House and eventually completely surrounding the massive building.
But by some miracle, the Dousman House remained untouched and just two weeks before their wedding day the island was reopened. The water continued to recede. The ground started to dry out. And by Saturday, we were all ready to celebrate Drake and Allison’s day as planned.
Drake and Allison, it was truly such an honor to get to capture your day and spend the day surrounded by your people. There were so many beautiful moments, honestly too many to share, but I hope this small preview helps you relive each of them!
The Creative Team behind the scenes making this day a reality:
Photo | Megan Snitker Photo
Video | MatteBox Creative
Venue | Dousman House
Dress | Iowa Brides and Weddings
Rings | Elliott Jewelers + Staghead Designs
Invites | Kendrin Geerdes + CopyWorks
Makeup | @kschauf_beauty
Hair | @airbyashleef + @jms_beauty___
Florist | Becka Owen
Transportation | Rolling Thunder Party Bus
Decor | Tying The Knot Wedding Rentals
DJ | Elite DJ Service
Caterer | The Barn
Dessert | Sugar Jacks + Pedrettis
Considering the Dousman House for your wedding?
If you’re searching for venues in the Prairie du Chien area, the Dousman House is probably already on your list — and for good reason. I’ve photographed there more than once, and it’s one of those places that has a genuine personality to it. Here’s what I’d want you to know.
The building dates back to the 1860s and sits on St. Feriole Island with the Mississippi River right out front. That combination — historic architecture, river views, island setting — doesn’t exist anywhere else in the area. It’s the kind of venue that does a lot of the heavy lifting for you just by being what it is.
The space
Inside, the Dousman House has a cocktail lounge, a reception room, a balcony, and a spacious lawn and patio for outdoor ceremony or cocktail hour use. It can comfortably fit up to 450 guests inside, which makes it one of the larger options in southwest Wisconsin. Tables, chairs, china, glassware, bartenders, and waitstaff are all included — catering comes through The Barn restaurant in Prairie du Chien, so that piece is handled for you too.
What it’s like to photograph here
The history built into this building gives photos a richness that’s hard to manufacture. The architectural details, the warm interior spaces, the grounds with the river in the background — there’s a lot to work with, and it all photographs beautifully. I especially love what the Mississippi River light does in the late afternoon. On a clear day, golden hour here is something else entirely.
It’s a particularly good fit for couples who want their day to feel a little elevated and timeless — not in a stuffy way, but in the way that feels like it actually means something.
Ready to book your Dousman House wedding photography?
I’d love to be part of your day. Reach out here and let’s talk about what you’re envisioning.
