We raced the first winter storm of the year for portraits tonight! With three generations present, there were a lot of snuggles and play. But nothing was cuter than these cousins! Enjoy the sneak peek!
Jeannie and Emily
Jeannie and Emily were married today!
This wedding is brought to you by the creative minds of Emily and Jeannie…and a whole slew of talented loved ones. The couple wanted a wedding that was industrial and modern, clean and casual. From the very beginning they designed a party like any good host, one that made sure everyone had an amazing time. From food to the dancefloor, every detail was thought out carefully and planned to a T. With gorgeous details including a copper pipe ceremony arbor to the knit bunting in the reception hall, this wedding also was DIY, through and through. And Emily and Jeannie rocked it.
We started the day off at the couple’s home, because their animals are everything to them, and we couldn’t resist a ton of portraits, since they were all in their bowties! The cats were…less willing to pose for portraits, but the pup…he was ready.
Emily and Jeannie love Minneapolis. They love being part of a bustling city with serene parks just a quick light rail ride away. We wanted our portraits to include these aspects they hold so dear.
After our nature walk, it was time to head over to the venue. Paikka is one of St. Paul’s coolest venues, and we had a blast exploring all the industrial spaces…as photographers, we were absolutely giddy about the natural light available. I really love how this wall had the purples, greys and blues of the wedding, it was a perfect fit.
Portraits included the fabulous wedding party, and the cutest kiddos.
At the ceremony, Lake String Quartet set the mood with renditions of the couple’s favorite songs. One of the highlights was when they played Oh Canada in honor of the 150th anniversary of the country and Jeannie’s roots.
Time for a group selfie!
Minnesota gave us some of her most gorgeous weather for the reception, which worked perfectly with Paikka’s indoor/outdoor space. The garage doors were thrown open, Gastrotruck pulled up and showed everyone the meaning of delicious, craft beer flowed, and guests mingled, ate, laughed, drank, talked, and connected. Bre Is Fun ran the show today, and kept everything going smoothly the whole time with a smile. Rudy’s Event Rentals brought their fabulous tables, chairs and furniture into the space to create an inviting lounge. The venue was mostly lit by candlelight, giving everything an intimate feel. Hilarious and emotional toasts were followed by a crazy dance party. What a night!
Jeannie and Emily, we are so honored to have been a part of your day. I hope you enjoy your sneak peek!!!
Ben and David
Ben and David were married today!
Minnesota REALLY loves these men…she took ominous gray clouds and quite the downpour and turned the day into bright blue skies and cool breezes just in time for their outdoor ceremony at the St Paul College Club. The grooms were in high spirits and really starting to feel the emotions of the day as they got ready together.
We headed outside for portraits and took full advantage of the venue’s lovely grounds and greenery. The two have such a beautiful relationship and truly understand each other. I loved photographing them together, and capturing their laughter.
Ben’s pocket square belonged to his grandfather, he carried this bit of history with him all day.
Check out these dapper dudes!
Soderberg’s Floral used a clean white and green color palette for all the designs with a focus on lilies.
In the garden, David and Ben had a tear filled ceremony, which celebrated their relationship and dedication to one another. The birds were chirping, the sun was shining, the trees were rustling, it was pretty idyllic. Rachel Holder and Ovation performed a song together that touched all the guests hearts, and the pastor spoke beautifully about the commitment and joys of marriage.
After the ceremony, friends and family gathered around the grooms eager to congratulate them. Everyone had a story about these two kind generous men and their dedication to their community. The next few hours were filled with delicious food, sweet speeches, and energetic dancing. Truly a night to remember.
David and Ben, it was such an honor to be a part of your day!!! I wish you all the best and hope you enjoy your sneak peek!
Brett and Kai
Brett and Kai were married yesterday!
These two found the soulmate in each other almost instantly. Their love was immediate and intense. They are one of those couples that just knew they were meant to be together, and yesterday their friends and family watched them commit in their vows as “husbands for life”. Kai and Brett are absolutely full of life and surround themselves with people who are kind, generous and down right hilarious. We had an amazing time photographing their day at the Minnesota Zoo.
All the love and support really got to the giraffe, he needed a moment to process…
As fun as the zoo is, I don’t know if it was prepared for all this energy!
Kai and Brett have an amazing connection, and are so giving to each other. Documenting their relationship was such an honor.
The grooms had Wisteria Design create all the gorgeous floral pieces for the day.
Man, this group knew how to bring it when we asked for a dramatic portrait. Yowza!
As rain gently fell outside, the grooms prepped for their big moment. The ceremony was full of happy tears, beautiful vows, and testament to the positive effect these men have had on their community of friends and family.
In the reception space, the couple showed their penchant for entertaining with delicious food stations, colorful decor and music full of energy. Their recessional music was “Lets have a Kiki” by the Scissor Sisters if that gives any indication 😉
At Nick and Maren’s wedding, Maren’s dad had me in messy tears as I was photographing his speech. And the same happened last night as Jim serenaded his son and son-in-law, encouraging the entire room to sing along to “Stand By Me”.
After heartfelt speeches and retelling about how the couple first met, it was time to PARTY! Music Mix Entertainment kept a great mix of songs playing, guests mingled, wandered the aquarium, got crazy in the photobooth and enjoyed their friends.
These two almost made it to midnight.
The dance ended with Beyonce and a very happy couple!
Brett and Kai, it was an HONOR to be a part of your day. We adore you both and hope you enjoy your sneak peek!!!