Erin and Chris got hitched on the very last day of 2016! And these two were all about sharing the celebration with their family and friends. The day started in classic midwest style with everyone wearing flannel! And the Bride made sure to make her Bridesmaids feel special with custom chalk-board signs that shared how they were each connected to her. Erin's "something blue" was her lace Tom's flats, but she also planned appropriately for the season with fancy Ugg boots! And her Bridesmaids rocked stunning gray-blue toned dresses. Once dressed, Erin did a very memorable Bridesmaid's "First Look", making an entrance in a glass elevator as all the girls anticipated her arrival below.
Read moreThe Magic Hour // Wedding Photography MN
Many clients ask me why I always sneak in 30 minutes during sunset to pull them away from the festivities... and well, since a photo is worth a thousand words, here are some examples of images made during "magic hour" (about 30-40 mins before full sunset). What's so magic about it? This time of day provides for a gorgeous, soft and very flattering light overall - creating rich and saturated images. It also ends up a being a nice break from the reception for the couple; another moment to reconnect with each other and remember what the day is truly about (your love!). So, my advice is to make sure to allow a few minutes for these romantic portraits in your Timeline - you won't regret it!
Read moreAnna + Marc // Nicollet Island Pavilion winter Wedding
A fresh dusting of snow and an iconic riverside destination with city skyline views, makes the perfect backdrop for a Minnesota winter wedding. It certainly takes a brave couple to plan a December celebration in the midwestern tundra, but the results (romantic winter sunlight and cozy interiors) are definitely worth it, and everyone is guaranteed an experience to remember.
Read moreEngaged // Jasmine + Jeremy - Engagement Photo Ideas
This lovely duo was game to celebrate their engagement at a very special South Minneapolis spot... The historic Riverview Movie Theater! They braved the late-Fall chill -- strolling through the neighborhood and snapping a few portraits under the marquee -- but then got cozy with some hot chocolate at the Riverview Cafe across the street. From there we were able to pop into the theater between films, plus take some fun shots inside the cinema's iconic lobby. And of course the day would not have been complete without a little popcorn tossing contest :) A truly lovely afternoon with a very lovely couple -- I'm looking forward to seeing Jasmine + Jeremy tie the knot!
Read moreBridget + Blake // Wedding Photography MN
It's safe to say that Bridget + Blake's big day wins the prize for the Most Laughter this year! Their family and crew was a blast and kept the mood light and fun throughout the entire day. From a very romantic First Look among the Fall foliage, to a stunning reception at St. John Neuman Church in Egan, MN to a stylish celebration at Rosehenge Hall, these two made sure that their guests enjoyed every single second. They helped make their day unique with a lot of little touches -- from hand-made signage to a hilarious photo slideshow, to an exquisite cake made by the Bride's mother, and they didn't forget to have fun with a few traditions -- instead of the 'clinking of glasses' for a kiss, the Bride and Groom required folks to have a dance off! Congrats to these wonderful love birds!
Read moreEngaged // Madison + Jamie - Engagement Photos
Jamie and Madison pitched the idea to bring Jamie's motorcycle to their engagement session, and obviously... YES. On a perfect Fall day, they jumped on the bike (and agreed to slow down for just a few seconds for some photos), strolled through the fields, popped a bottle of champagne, danced in the studio, laughed together in the afternoon sunlight, and basically melted my heart with all their sweetness. I can't wait to see what fun these two have planned for their wedding day. Yay for love!
Read moreAmanda + Kyle // Florian Gardens - Wisconsin Wedding Photographer
Amanda + Kyle's gorgeous Fall wedding was in full-color in Eau Claire. These two shared a special first look in a light rain, surrounded by the vibrant colors of a Wisconsin Autumn. Then, they exchanged vows in a traditional Catholic ceremony at St. James the Greater and followed with a quick stop a a local brewery before making their way to a truly entertaining reception at the Florian Gardens -- complete with a whimsical travel theme, photo booth, plus a live band! A very magical day for a lovely couple. Wishing Kyle + Amanda many years of adventures ahead!
Read moreEmily + Ryan // University Club - St Paul Wedding Venues
Two words: Wedding BRUNCH. And a perfectly laid-back morning celebration it was! Everything fell into place for this lovely couple -- a historic venue of the University Club of St. Paul, soft morning light shining though the vibrant Autumn leaves, plus a custom-designed newspaper for the guests to read over coffee, featuring fun anecdotes from the Bride and Groom. And of course it would not have been complete without a few mimosas :) Did I mention a gorgeously delicious succulent + donut display at every table? And then there was the awesome travel-themed guest book which asked family and friends to write the couple a postcard listing their favorite destination and what they enjoyed most about their adventure. Emily + Ryan thought of absolutely everything for this simple, comfortable and sophisticated gathering and their guests enjoyed each minute of it. Cheers!
Read moreDanielle + Dan // Centennial Lakes Park + Canterbury Park
Dan and Danielle planned a wonderfully unique event, from beginning to end (not to mention, seriously stylish... those blue shoes!). The couple shared a romantic First Look along the shores of Centennial Lakes Park, a stroll through the sculpture gardens, and exchanged their vows under the amphitheater, surrounded by family and friends. From there, their guests were in for a real treat, with a huge celebration at Canterbury Park in Shakopee, MN! (we even got to bring the entire wedding party out onto the racing track for portraits!). Delicious food, a full ice-cream bar and a live band... these two know how to throw a party. Wishing Danielle and Dan many years of fun ahead!
Read moreColleen + Ronny // Minnesota Valley Country Club
Colleen and Ronald were married with a full mass at the Good Shepard Catholic Church in Golden Valley, MN and the 5-foot train on her wedding gown certainly brought the traditional drama! Their families joined for portraits at the alter, there was a special appearance from a purple classic ride, and we were sure to grab a few fun wedding party shots on the way to the Reception. With a beautiful blush pink and gold theme, plus custom DIY touches everywhere, the couple danced their way into the Minnesota Valley Country Club. Cocktails, speeches, cake, dancing and s'mores -- a perfect event, start to finish. Congratulations on your wonderful romance, Colleen and Ronny!
Read more