Sidney and Ryan’s wedding day was a beautiful reflection of their love story—one that began all the way back in high school, filled with laughter, friendship, and years of growing together. Held at Sidney’s parents’ property in Zimmerman, Minnesota, their May wedding was intimate, emotional, and full of meaningful, personal touches.
A Love That Started on the Golf Course
Sidney and Ryan first met on the high school golf team—Sidney in eighth grade, Ryan in ninth. They were just 14 and 15 years old, and what started as a sweet friendship soon blossomed into something more. A year and a half later, under the Friday night lights at a homecoming football game, Ryan asked Sidney to be his girlfriend. Their first date was at the movie theater, and they’ve been inseparable ever since.
The Proposal: One Truth, One Lie
Their proposal story feels straight out of a country song—because it kind of was. Ryan had planned a walk at Grams’s Regional Park, but Sidney was sick and less than enthusiastic about leaving the house. After a little convincing, they made their way there, and while Sidney didn’t think much of Ryan being dressed up, she started to catch on when he asked her to sit on a bench and then play a song—“Diamond in My Pocket” by Cody Johnson.
That song had been an inside joke for years, with Ryan always saying “one truth and one lie” whenever the lyrics came on. But this time, he said, “They’re both true… well, it’s in my boot.” And then, in the sweetest twist, he pulled the ring out of his boot, got down on one knee, and asked her to marry him.
Wedding Morning at the Family Home
On the morning of their wedding, Sidney got ready in her childhood home, surrounded by her bridesmaids in soft, beautiful dresses from BirdyGray. Her hair was styled to perfection by Alyssa Hastings, and she slipped into her elegant gown from Vow’d Minneapolis and her classic Tecovas boots—a subtle nod to the country charm woven into their day. Meanwhile, Ryan and his groomsmen, dressed in timeless pieces from Men’s Wearhouse, prepped with anticipation, his Dan Post boots from Pleasant Hills Saddle Shop setting the tone for a laid-back yet refined celebration.
An Joyful First Look
One of the most heartfelt moments of the day came during their private first look. Tucked away from the buzz of the wedding party, Sidney and Ryan shared emotional personal vows, just the two of them. It was quiet, sincere, and deeply moving—the kind of moment they’ll carry with them forever.
Portraits and Quiet Joy
After soaking in that private time together, we moved into portraits, capturing their joy and natural connection. Being on Sidney’s family property made it feel even more special—we wandered through trees, open spaces, and all the spots that held meaning for them.
From the stationery by Basic Invite to the rings from Thurber Jewelers, every part of this day reflected who Sidney and Ryan are—classic, kind, and totally in love.
A Ceremony for Their Closest Circle
The ceremony was intentionally small, attended only by close friends and family. It felt sacred and special—an intimate gathering where every guest was someone who had walked closely with them through life. As they exchanged vows once more, this time in front of their loved ones, the joy was palpable. And when they made their way back down the aisle as husband and wife, guests showered them with a joyful petal toss, sending them into married life with laughter and color.
A Table Branded with Love
After the ceremony, Sidney and Ryan did something completely unique—they branded a wooden table together, a keepsake they’ll now have in their living room to commemorate their new beginning. It was such a meaningful touch, representing not only their new last name but the intentional way they’re building a life together.
Dinner, Dancing, and Celebrating the Start of Forever
The evening continued with a delicious meal from Von Hanson’s Catering, and the reception space—styled with rentals from Isanti Rentals and florals from Flowers Plus of Elk River—felt both cozy and elegant. Every detail was thoughtful, but never overdone—just like Sidney and Ryan.Their DJ of PM Enterprise, kept the energy high and the dance floor full, and Andrew Burquest, their videographer, was there to document every moment—from quiet tears to wild spins under the lights.
And just when guests thought the night couldn’t get any better, a late-night surprise rolled in: Texas Roadhouse toast—one of Sidney and Ryan’s favorites—served hot and fresh to keep the party going. It was such a fun, personal touch that had everyone smiling (and grabbing seconds!).
Sidney and Ryan’s wedding was the kind of day that reminds me exactly why I do what I do. It wasn’t about putting on a show—it was about celebrating a deep, enduring love with the people who matter most. High school sweethearts who grew up side by side, who know each other’s hearts by memory, and who are starting this next chapter with as much tenderness as joy.
A Beautiful Day
Sidney and Ryan, thank you for inviting me into such a sacred day. It was truly an honor to witness the beginning of your forever. Enjoy your amazing honeymoon to Hilton Head.
Vendors for the day::
Venue: Private residence – Sidney’s parents’ property, Zimmerman, MN // Videography: Andrew Burquest // Hair: Alyssa Hastings // Florals: Flowers Plus of Elk River // Catering: Von Hanson’s // Late-Night Snacks: Texas Roadhouse // DJ: PM Enterprise // Stationery: Basic Invite // Rentals: Isanti Rentals // Wedding Dress: Vow’d Minneapolis // Bridesmaid Dresses: BirdyGrey // Bride’s Shoes: Tecovas (Nashville, TN) // Groom’s Boots: Dan Post from Pleasant Hills Saddle Shop // Rings: Thurber Jewelers // Men’s Attire:: Men’s Warehouse
