Category Archives: Weddings

October 31, 2024

Bell Museum Wedding :: Saint Paul, MN

Tags: bell museum wedding, museum wedding, natural history wedding, saint paul wedding, wedding

On a crisp October day, Elizabeth and James celebrated their love with an enchanting geode and stargazing-themed wedding at the Bell Museum in Saint Paul. This venue held a personal significance for the couple—it was where they shared their first date. During that special day, they broke open a geode, which James later had transformed into a stunning necklace for Elizabeth. She wore this heartfelt piece as a reminder of their journey, making it a beautiful and meaningful accessory on their wedding day.

The day began with getting ready at the DoubleTree Roseville Minneapolis, where Elizabeth and her bridal party prepared with the help of Luminous Beauty for makeup and hair. Elizabeth looked stunning in a vintage, heirloom gown originally hand-sewn by James’s grandmother for his mother. After receiving significant alterations by Before The Ball Vintage Bridal, it fit Elizabeth beautifully, carrying forward a legacy of love. Her galaxy-themed shoes from Offbeat Sweetie added a fun, celestial touch.

Meanwhile, James prepared with his custom suit from Daniels Custom Clothing, designed by a talented neighbor and styled with cuff links from his father and a watch given to him at his graduation. The suit featured stargazing-themed interior, and buttons that were brightly colored to match, which paired perfectly with Elizabeth’s look and the event’s celestial theme.

Liz and her team at Jenna Culley Events orchestrated every aspect, from vendor coordination to last-minute touches, allowing Elizabeth and James to enjoy a relaxed, unforgettable day. The couple met for their emotional first look in one of the Bell Museum’s stunning galleries, surrounded by awe-inspiring exhibits that mirrored their shared love for natural history. The brides people, dressed in jewel-toned emerald green dresses from Vow’d, and grooms people in navy suits from Daniels Custom Clothing, joined for photos, capturing both the joy and vibrant color palette of the day.

The wedding ceremony was held in the Bell Museum’s planetarium, offering an intimate, celestial backdrop as the couple exchanged heartfelt vows. Guests cheered as Elizabeth and James were officially pronounced husband and wife. For the reception, Elizabeth changed into a chic, knee-length gown by Vow’d that was tailored for her personality and added ease for dancing. Elizabeth and James exchanged custom rings from CustomMade.com, with Elizabeth’s ring featuring a geode element and James’s ring including a dinosaur imprint—a nod to their shared love for history and natural elements.

At the reception, the museum’s gallery spaces transformed into an experiential celebration. Guests enjoyed a geode-breaking station and explored the interactive Touch and See Lab where they encountered reptiles and other live exhibits. The Harmony DJ Entertainment team, led by Keny Grey, set the mood with an incredible playlist, keeping the dance floor lively all night long.

Adding to the day’s unique atmosphere were breathtaking dinosaur-themed centerpieces created by Carra at La Petite Fleur in collaboration with Tonkadale Greenhouse. The florists designed displays that featured ferns, pinecones, paper wasp nests, mushrooms, sticks, and other foraged elements, all carefully arranged around the ever-growing dinosaurs. Lanterns added a warm glow, and customized lighting displayed fern patterns along the museum walls, enhancing the wedding’s forest-meets-museum aesthetic that beautifully replicated the couple. The couple’s unique style and celestial theme shone through in every aspect, especially in the reception decor. Linen Effects brought in beautiful off-white linens and rustic wood chairs that lent an elegant, earthy contrast to the museum’s modern aesthetic

Guests were greeted by a creative dinosaur seating chart that tied the event’s theme together with a playful nod to the couple’s love of natural history. Each table was named after a different dinosaur, guiding guests to their seats amidst the museum’s exhibits. The geode-inspired place cards created by Epitome Papers at each setting were a striking touch, designed to match the day’s theme and tie in Elizabeth’s original geode necklace

A celestial stargazing experience on the Bell Museum’s rooftop rounded out the night, allowing guests to view Saturn and distant galaxies, making the evening all the more magical. From the personalized geode jewelry created by a beloved friend to the intricate décor, each detail celebrated the couple’s story, their loved ones, and their love of the cosmos.

Elizabeth and James’s Bell Museum wedding was a perfect blend of history, love, and personal touches, making for an unforgettable day for all who attended. Congratulations to one incredible couple!

Vendor Team:

Venue: Bell Museum, Saint Paul, MN
Planner: Jenna Culley Events
Dress Alterations: Before The Ball Vintage Bridal
Groom’s Suit & Menswear: Daniels Custom Clothing
Bride’s Dress: Family Heirloom
Bride’s Reception Dress: Vow’d
Bridesmaid Dresses: Vow’d
Rings: CustomMade.com
Makeup & Hair: Luminous Beauty
Bride’s Shoes: Offbeat Sweetie
Linens: Linen Effects
Caterer: Kafé 421
Florist: La Petite Fleur and Tonkadale
DJ: Harmony DJ Entertainment, Keny Grey
Stationery: Epitome Papers
Hotel Accommodations: DoubleTree Roseville Minneapolis

Tags: bell museum wedding, museum wedding, natural history wedding, saint paul wedding, wedding

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September 25, 2024

Stonebrooke Golf Course Wedding :: Shakopee, MN

Tags: Chaska fall wedding, Chelsea and Carson wedding, emotional first look, fall wedding ideas, golden hour wedding photography, MN wedding vendors, outdoor wedding, Stonebrooke Golf Course wedding, wedding photographer Minnesota, wedding venues Chaska MN.

Chelsea and Carson’s fall wedding at the beautiful Stonebrooke Golf Course in Shakopee, MN was nothing short of magical. The fall weather was perfect—sunny with just the right amount of warmth, a dream for any outdoor ceremony. Their day was filled with emotional moments, stunning golden light, and personal touches that made it uniquely theirs.

Their love story began years before their wedding, but the proposal was straight out of a movie. Chelsea and Carson made a trip to their al’ma mater (University of North Dakota) for a weekend with plans to have Christmas photos taken in front of their favorite hockey arena in matching jerseys—a nod to one of their shared passions. But Carson had a surprise up his sleeve. With the help of his friend (and photographer), Carson got down on one knee, turning a simple photo session into the most memorable day of their lives.

The morning of Chelsea and Carson’s wedding began in the elegant bridal suite at Stonebrooke Golf Course. The girls gathered in the spacious and light-filled room, sipping champagne and sharing laughs as Cailin Conrad from Beauty and Beyond Bridal worked her magic on hair and makeup. The excitement continued as Chelsea’s mother and mother in law helped her into her stunning gown from the Wedding Shoppe. Meanwhile, the guys relaxed in their own suite, enjoying the laid-back atmosphere as they suited up in their sharp attire from Men’s Warehouse, ready for the big day ahead. The suites provided the perfect setting for these intimate, joyful moments.

One of the most heartfelt moments of Chelsea and Carson’s day was their emotional first look. Carson stood waiting in anticipation, and as Chelsea gently tapped his shoulder, he turned to see his beautiful bride for the first time. The raw emotion on both their faces said it all—tears of joy and love filled the air as they embraced in that quiet moment before the ceremony. Afterward, the couple was joined by their fun-loving wedding party for photos around the stunning Stonebrooke Golf Course. The ladies were stunning in their periwinkle Birdy Grey dresses. The laughter and energy were contagious, and their closest friends made sure to keep the mood light and joyful. Family portraits followed with both families before taking a break before the ceremony.

The outdoor ceremony took place on the gorgeous grounds of Water’s Edge Golf Course, where the lush greens and beautiful fall colors framed their vows perfectly. Chelsea carried a gorgeous bouquet designed by Nyrea Thielges, complementing the natural beauty of the venue and the two exchanged rings from Helzberg Diamonds. Guests cheered as the two kissed and made their way down the asile as husband and wife!

After the ceremony, the guests were treated to a delicious meal catered by Tavern 19 where everyone savored incredible dishes. The reception atmosphere was full of joy, with DJ Hunter Quinn created an unforgettable dance party, playing music that had every guest on their feet.

As the evening progressed, the sun began to dip below the horizon, creating the most breathtaking golden hour. This time of day was truly the cherry on top of an already perfect wedding. The way the light bathed the golf course in warm tones was nothing short of magical, and it gave us some of the most stunning portraits of the newlyweds. The glow of the setting sun mirrored the warmth and love shared between Chelsea and Carson.

For dessert, Chelsea and Carson went with a unique and personal choice—an assortment of bundt cakes from Nothing Bundt Cakes in Maple Grove. The sweet treats were a hit with their guests and added a fun twist to the traditional wedding cake.

Chelsea and Carson’s wedding was a beautiful reflection of their love story, filled with special touches that made it uniquely theirs. From their emotional first look to the golden hour portraits, every moment was perfect. Their wedding at Stonebrooke Golf Course was truly unforgettable, and it was an honor to capture their love on such a beautiful day.

The Dream Team of Vendors

Their day was flawless, thanks to a dream team of vendors who made every detail shine:

Ceremony: Stonebrooke Golf Club // Reception: Waters Edge Golf Course // Hair & Makeup: Cailin Conrad from Beauty and Beyond Bridal // Catering: Tavern 19 // Florist: Nyrea Thielges //Desserts: Nothing Bundt Cake // DJ: Hunter Quinn // Wedding Dress: The Wedding Shoppe // Bridesmaid Dresses: Birdy Grey // Men’s Attire: Men’s Warehouse. // Rings: Helzberg Diamonds. // Shoes: Target‘s A New Day collection.

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July 31, 2024

The Outpost Center Wedding :: Chaska, MN

Tags: bride, chaska wedding, groom, Minnesota, minnesota wedding, mn wedding, outdoor wedding, prairie wedding, summer wedding, the outpost center wedding, the outpost wedding

Kelly and Sean’s love story began in a church life group, where they bonded over their mutual love for volleyball. Their friendship deepened through their regular “Game Night Tuesdays.” Sean would visit Kelly and her mom every Tuesday, and they would play a few rounds of Settlers of Catan, keeping a tally sheet of all their wins. This simple tradition became a cornerstone of their relationship, filled with laughter, competition, and growing affection.

Sean’s proposal was a testament to his thoughtful and caring nature. What was supposed to be a day of skiing turned into a hiking adventure at Interstate Park on a cold January day. Bundled up in warm gear, they hiked through the nearly deserted park, reminiscing about their journey together. At the third scenic overlook, Sean asked Kelly three important questions before getting down on one knee and asking for her hand in marriage. Overwhelmed with excitement, they cut their hike short and headed back to Maple Grove for a celebratory dinner Sean had planned.

On a hot July day, family and friends gathered at The Outpost Center in Chaska, MN, to celebrate Kelly and Sean’s beautiful union. The day was filled with love, joy, and the vibrant colors of summer, as the couple began their new journey together.

The morning began with anticipation and excitement, as Kelly shared her first look with her bridesmaids. Their faces lit up with admiration and joy, setting a heartfelt tone for the rest of the day. The emotional moment continued as Kelly’s father saw his daughter in her stunning wedding dress from David’s Bridal for the first time, creating a memory that will be cherished forever.

The Outpost Center, known for its picturesque fields of wildflowers, was in full bloom. Pinks, yellows, and various brightly colored hues swayed gently in the summer sun, while birds flew overhead, adding a touch of magic to the day. The setting was perfect for the celebration, embodying the natural beauty and warmth of the couple’s love.

The bridesmaids wore dresses in shades of blue, complementing the vibrant wildflowers. Kelly’s nieces and nephews played the charming roles of ring bearers and flower girls, adding a touch of innocence and delight to the ceremony. The men looked dashing in their navy suits from Knights Chamber, perfectly matching the elegant yet relaxed atmosphere of the day.

The wedding was a testament to the couple’s love and the joy of their family and friends. Kelly’s hair was beautifully styled by Tandi Smith, adding to her radiant appearance. Karen Heuer catered the meal, providing a delicious feast that delighted all the guests. Instant Request brought the tunes for the evening, ensuring the dance floor was alive with energy and celebration.

As the evening progressed, guests enjoyed dancing and celebrating. The natural beauty of The Outpost Center, combined with the love and happiness of everyone present, created an unforgettable atmosphere. Kelly and Sean finished off their day with a sparkler send off as guests waved them away!

Kelly and Sean’s wedding day was a perfect blend of love, family, and cherished memories. The day was a reflection of their journey together, from game nights and shared prayers to a heartfelt proposal and a beautiful wedding. As they embark on this new chapter of their lives, they carry with them the love and support of everyone who came together to celebrate their union. Congratulations to the two of you!!

Ceremony and Reception:: The Outpost Center // Hair:: Tandi Smith // Catering: Karen Heuer // DJ:: Instant Request // Wedding Dress:: David’s Bridal // Groom’s Suit:: Knights Chamber // Rings: Brilliant Earth and Helzburg Diamonds // Veil:: Susan Vander Lende //

Tags: bride, chaska wedding, groom, Minnesota, minnesota wedding, mn wedding, outdoor wedding, prairie wedding, summer wedding, the outpost center wedding, the outpost wedding

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July 16, 2024

Northwoods Wedding :: Emily, MN

Tags: cabin, cabin wedding, central mn wedding, Minnesota, minnesota wedding, northwoods wedding, summer, summer wedding

Tyler and Avery’s journey began through a serendipitous meeting facilitated by family connections. Avery’s cousin, who is best friends with Tyler, brought him along on a fishing trip to Minnesota the summer before their senior year of high school. The connection between Avery and Tyler was instant, and they spent the entire week together, laying the foundation for a relationship that would blossom over the years.

Despite the challenges of long-distance, Tyler and Avery’s love only grew stronger. They navigated the ups and downs of being apart, building a resilient and enduring bond. Their proposal story is a testament to Tyler’s thoughtfulness and the couple’s shared sense of adventure. During a trip to Atlanta, Georgia, for a young adult conference, Tyler, with the help of Avery’s sister and best friend, planned a surprise proposal. At a picturesque outlook over a lake, Tyler got down on one knee and asked Avery to be his forever.

Nestled in the Northwoods beauty of Emily, Minnesota, Tyler and Avery’s wedding day was a picturesque celebration of love, memories, and new beginnings. Their special day unfolded at Avery’s grandparents’ cabin, the very place where their love story began three years ago. The quaint charm of the cabin, combined with the emotional significance of the location, made it a truly unforgettable occasion.

The couple exchanged vows in the same church where Avery’s grandparents were married fifty years ago, adding another layer of family heritage and sentimental value to their wedding. The sun shone brightly on that hot July day, casting a warm glow over the entire celebration. From the very beginning, the day was filled with heartfelt moments and pure joy.

The excitement started as Avery shared her first look with her bridesmaids, their faces lighting up with awe and admiration. This emotional moment set the tone for the day, highlighting the deep bonds of friendship and love. Avery’s father couldn’t hold back his tears as he saw his daughter for the first time in her wedding dress, a beautiful gown that had belonged to her mother. The dress fit Avery perfectly, a timeless piece that carried a legacy of love and family tradition.

Before the ceremony, Avery and Tyler shared private vows, an intimate moment that reflected their deep connection and commitment to one another. The ceremony itself was a beautiful blend of celebration, worship, laughter and tears, with the couple surrounded by their closest family and friends. Avery and Tyler exchanged rings from Brilliant Earth and Manly Bands. The men, dressed in tan suits from Men’s Wearhouse, looked dapper and perfectly in sync with the summer vibes of the wedding while the ladies looked beautiful in their stunning Azazie dresses.

After the heartfelt ceremony, Avery made a quick change into a stunning two-piece lace dress from A’terd State. The new dress was ideal for their backyard reception, allowing her to move freely and enjoy every moment of the celebration. The wedding party was a delight to be with, bringing an infectious energy and joy that made the day even more special.

The reception was a true community affair, with friends of the family coming together to cater the event. Guests were treated to delicious ice cream sandwiches and refreshing watermelon popsicles, perfect for the warm summer evening. Hair and makeup for the bride and her party were beautifully done by Lindsey Ecklund and Ari Norgren, ensuring everyone looked their best throughout the day. The stunning videography by Alyssa Suchy captured every precious moment, creating memories that will last a lifetime and Selena Elrod of Lena Blu kept the day moving with her incredible planning skills.

As the night progressed, laughter and music filled the air, with guests dancing and playing yard games. GHS Tent Rental provided the perfect setup, ensuring everyone was comfortable and could enjoy the festivities. Mosquito Militia’s services kept pesky bugs at bay, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the celebration. The couple also honored Avery’s parents’ 25th wedding anniversary by playing their first dance song, giving them a special moment to relive their own love story on the dance floor.

One of the most memorable moments of the evening was when Avery and Tyler decided to cool off by splashing in the lake. As the sun set, they playfully splashed water at each other, a joyous and carefree end to their perfect day. Congratulations to the both of you, may God richly bless this amazing journey of marriage! Enjoy your honeymoon to Colorado Springs!

Vendors for the day // Ceremony:: Emily Weslean Church // Reception:: Private Residence // Planner:: Selena Elrod // Hair:: Lindsey Ecklund // Make-Up:: Ari Norgren // Video:: Alyssa Suchy // Bridesmaid Dresses:: Azazie // Men’s Suits:: Men’s Wearhouse // Rings: Bride’s – Brilliant Earth, Groom’s – Manly Bands // Tent Rental:: GHS Tent Rental // Mosquito Control:: Mosquito Militia // Wedding Dress:: Family Heirloom //

Tags: cabin, cabin wedding, central mn wedding, Minnesota, minnesota wedding, northwoods wedding, summer, summer wedding

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July 2, 2024

7 Vines Vineyard Wedding :: Dellwood, MN

Tags: 7 vines vineyard wedding, black and white wedding, classic wedding, Minneapolis, Minnesota, real wedding, vineyard wedding, wedding, wedding 2024, wedding day

Last weekend, I had the absolute pleasure of photographing Nick and Katie’s wedding at the picturesque 7 Vines Vineyard. It was a stunning summer day, blessed with partly sunny skies that created a perfect backdrop for the celebration. The day was a harmonious blend of classic elegance and joyful moments, making it an event to remember.

Nick and Katie’s journey began in 2020 when they met through Katie’s sister and brother-in-law at their wedding. Nick’s proposal was nothing short of magical. He gathered their close friends and family for a special night out in Stillwater. The couple enjoyed a walk along the river, and as they stood in front of the lift bridge, Nick popped the question. Katie’s sisters were nearby to capture the moment, and they all celebrated with drinks afterwards. The festivities continued the next day with a fun outing to Top Golf and a gathering at The Wild Boar in Oakdale, surrounded by their loved ones.

The wedding day was a classic affair adorned in blacks and whites. Katie’s bridesmaids looked timeless in their elegant black dresses from Azazie, each carrying a bouquet of white roses arranged by Laurie LeClair from Flore Inspired. The ceremony took place under an altar beautifully decorated with baby’s breath, which also adorned the table arrangements in big, stunning bouquets.

Katie was a vision of elegance in her backless wedding dress with a halter neckline by Casa Blanca Bridal, purchased from Bella Bridal Boutique. Her hair was styled in a trendy ponytail by the talented team at SunBear Spa & Salon, who also did her flawless makeup. Nick, looking dapper in his attire from Men’s Warehouse, stood with anticipation as the ceremony began. The flower “men” added a touch of humor as they walked down the aisle, bringing laughter to the crowd. But when Katie made her entrance, all eyes were on her, and there wasn’t a dry eye in the house as she and Nick exchanged their heartfelt vows.

As the day transitioned into evening, guests enjoyed the vineyard’s classic reds and whites and indulged in sweet treats from the Lil’ Dipper ice cream truck. The charcuterie board was a feast for both the eyes and the palate, provided by the fantastic Creative Catering by Molly . The golden hour was truly magical, casting a warm glow over the vineyard, perfect for capturing breathtaking photos of the newlyweds.

The reception was filled with touching moments and joyous laughter. Both fathers delivered moving speeches, and the maid of honor’s words brought many to tears, while the best man’s speech had everyone laughing. The night continued with Katie and Nick dancing the night away to some of the best music, thanks to DJRay from Neckwerk Entertainment, who kept the dance floor alive. Alexandra Films captured every beautiful moment on video, ensuring that these memories will be cherished forever.

The stationery for the wedding was beautifully crafted by The Knot, adding a touch of elegance to the invitations and programs. The rings that symbolized Nick and Katie’s love were purchased from Wedding Day Diamonds, adding a sparkle to their special day.

Nick and Katie’s wedding at 7 Vines Vineyard was truly a celebration of love, laughter, and unforgettable memories. Congratulations to both of you and enjoy your honeymoon to Italy!