Spectacular Joyful Milwaukee Engagement Session at Kohler-Andrae State Park

Milwaukee Engagement Session Photographer | Meredith Mutza Photography

There’s something magical about photographing love stories along the shores of Lake Michigan, and Kohler-Andrae State Park is one of my absolute favorite spots to do just that. Nestled just south of Sheboygan, this gem of a park boasts rolling sand dunes, golden light, and miles of serene shoreline — the perfect backdrop for a dreamy summer engagement session.

I had the joy of photographing Jordan and Molly’s engagement session at Kohler-Andrae last summer and they will be tying the knot next month at the beautiful Oneida Country Club in Green Bay. Their chemistry was effortless, and the warm summer breeze off the lake made the whole evening feel like a scene from a romance film.

Why Kohler-Andrae is a Favorite

Kohler-Andrae State Park is the kind of place that feels like it was made for engagement photos. The dunes are truly breathtaking — they roll like waves themselves, tall and golden, especially in that magical hour before sunset. The boardwalk trails wind through the grasslands, giving us plenty of dreamy, secluded spots to shoot. And then there’s the lake itself — endless blue, always shifting, always stunning.

This couple embraced the natural vibe of the park perfectly. Barefoot in the sand, wind in their hair, and smiles that said, this is our forever.

Preparing for a Beach Engagement Session

If you’re dreaming of your own summer engagement session at the beach — whether at Kohler-Andrae, along the Milwaukee lakefront, or another favorite lakeside spot — here are a few tips to make the most of your session:

1. Dress with the Elements in Mind
Light, flowy outfits work so well for beach sessions. Think soft fabrics that move with the breeze and neutrals or earthy tones that complement the sand and lake. This couple went with a pale sage green dress and a crisp, casual white button-down paired with khaki pants — simple, timeless, and perfect for the beach.

2. Don’t Be Afraid to Get a Little Sandy
Some of my favorite moments happen when couples kick off their shoes and explore the dunes or get their feet wet at the shoreline. Be open to a little adventure — whether it’s climbing a dune or twirling along the water’s edge.

3. Hair & Makeup That Can Move with You
Since beach sessions can be breezy (especially along Lake Michigan), I always recommend hair styles that work with a little wind — think loose curls, a braid, or a low bun. And if you’re wearing makeup, go for something natural but set — that glow-from-within look photographs beautifully in natural light.

4. Timing is Everything
Golden hour — that magical window just before sunset — is everything at Kohler-Andrae. The light hits the dunes and lake just right, giving us those warm, glowing tones that feel like summer nostalgia. We’ll plan your session around this time to make the most of that dreamy light.

5. Bring a Blanket or Towel
If we’re shooting near or on the sand, a pretty blanket can double as a cozy prop and give you a comfy spot to sit. Bonus points if it has texture or fringe for those extra-lovely detail shots.

Looking Ahead to Their Green Bay Wedding

This couple’s June wedding at Oneida Country Club is going to be stunning — I can already tell. There’s something about a summer wedding in Wisconsin that just feels right. With all the greenery, the warmth, and the long days, it’s such a beautiful season to say “I do.”

What I loved most about this session, though, wasn’t just the location or the light — it was the genuine connection between these two. They were playful, relaxed, and fully present with each other. That’s what makes for truly meaningful engagement photos — those unscripted in-between moments where love shines through.

Let’s Plan Your Milwaukee Engagement Session

Whether you’re planning a beach session like this one at Kohler-Andrae, a cityscape in downtown Milwaukee, or a romantic stroll through the gardens, I’m here to help you create an engagement session that reflects you.

Engagement sessions are more than just beautiful photos — they’re a chance to slow down, savor the season you’re in, and celebrate the journey ahead.

If you’re newly engaged and planning your own Milwaukee engagement session (or anywhere in Wisconsin!), I’d love to hear your vision. Let’s create something beautiful together.

– Meredith

Follow along on Instagram: @meredithmutzaphotography
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