Wedding Date: August 13th 2022

Just across the river from my birth town of St. Peter, lies a lush oasis overflowing with grape vines and welcoming faces, Chankaska Creek Winery. As I drove through St. Peter, I couldn’t help but feel like a kid going back home and the sight of the grapevines in bloom was the best welcome I could have received. I heard my name shouted across the farm and familiar faces in the distance. I’ve known Angie’s family for a long time and even photographed her sister's wedding. Between these two warm and welcoming families, I really did feel right at home.

We started our day with a big dress reveal to the sound of exuberant gasps and many oohs and ahs as Angie twirled in the summer sun. Her friends and family helped her with the final touches before they sent her on her way for the first look. She had envisioned this moment on a sweet little bridge over a creek which symbolized them coming together as a couple. The initial excitement quickly turned into happy tears that just couldn’t be contained. It felt like they were the only two people on earth at that moment and you could tell they couldn’t believe their day was finally here.

We met up with the rest of the wedding party and the families to explore the grounds and take in the lavish vineyard scenery. I heard laughter behind me and saw Angie’s dad being dog-piled by his grandchildren and you could tell he was possibly the happiest guy there (aside from Nick) and was in full grandpa-mode. Nick is the perfect complement to Angie and his friends know how to bring out his goofy side. He made sure everyone was doing ok and having a good time. Group photos aren’t known to be the most fun part of a wedding day, but with Nick’s help, this entire crew was laughing and enjoying every minute.

When it was time for the ceremony, we made our way down to a beautiful clearing tucked away along the river. The scent of lush greenery filled the air as the guests mingled in anticipation. When Angie appeared around the corner, she seemed to glow. Her eyes met Nick’s and once again they were the only two people on earth. They exchanged wine during the ceremony and after being pronounced husband and wife, they popped a bottle of bubbly with their friends to celebrate. These are the perks of having your wedding at a vineyard afterall!

Everyone made their way into the large warm and inviting ballroom that held all of its farmhouse charm. This was a special place for Angie and Nick, with many important dates in their relationship, now they were celebrating their wedding and watching it all come full circle. After some lovely toasts and lots of great wine, the event coordinator gave us private access to the vineyard so we could catch the last few moments of light. It was surreal to have the entire vineyard to ourselves so we just stopped and looked out across the green valley to take in the moment. It felt like we were on top of the world. Once the sun sank below the horizon, we made our way back to the reception hall that was glowing off in the distance.

Vendors: Chankaska Creek Winery (venue), Amber Terese Events (wedding planner), Budding Creations (florist), Absolute Custom Catering (catering), Showtime Entertainment (photo booth and DJ), Cody Anton (videographer), Posh Bridal (dress boutique), Milbern Clothing (grooms suit), The Black Tux (groomsmen suits), Lisa Kurtz (hair and makeup)