Christina and Jim

Wedding Date: October 21st 2023

Whenever an industry friend refers me to a couple, I know it’s going to be a great match! The incredibly talented wedding planner, Kastina of Kastina & Co, sent Christina and Jim my way and we instantly hit it off! After long talks about their love story and hearing about their wedding plans at the gorgeous Landmark Center, I knew this was the perfect fit and couldn’t wait for the big day to arrive. It’s always a huge honor when a friend wants to work together, so I was doubly excited for this autumn day.

The sky was big and blue and it felt more like a touch of summer than a fall day in October. Christina and her family were excitedly waiting in the bridal suite with a picturesque view of this beautiful day. We decided to do her big dress reveal in the historic alcove where all of her bridesmaids stood waiting in anticipation with their eyes closed tight. They gasped and threw their arms around their friend, filling the already summery day with even more warmth. After meeting up with family, the wedding party was ready to make their way to the church so the day could officially begin. 

When we arrived at the beautiful little church in Little Canada, Jim was there with a big smile on his face and ready to walk down the aisle arm in arm with his parents. The music crescendoed and the doors opened to reveal Christina and her father at the end of the aisle. No one in that room was happier than Jim and it really felt like they were the only two people in the world once their eyes met. The ceremony was sweet and personal but the laughter and cute banter between the pair really stole the show. They couldn’t take their eyes off one another and their smiles filled the entire room when they exchanged their vows. When they were pronounced husband and wife, the entire congregation cheered and they happily made their way outside, arm in arm.

Gorgeous autumn foliage was waiting for them just outside the church, so after taking in the stunning colors we were on our way back to Saint Paul to hunt down even more beautiful fall colors. We made a stop at one of my favorite lookout spots with a view of the city skyline and a great opportunity to take a breath and enjoy the moment together. We enjoyed the views with their wedding party before heading back to the Landmark Center where Kastina and her team were creating magic. 

The reception space looked immaculate and the crowd cheered once more as the happy couple entered the room. Heartfelt and hilarious toasts were given to pay tribute to the guests of honor that had everyone rolling in their chairs. The food was incredible and the company was even better. Christina and Jim took to the dance floor as their song played and they twirled happily in one another's arms. When their dances were over and the floor filled with guests enjoying the music, I snuck the pair outside for a quick toast all on their own. We popped some bubbly and lifted a glass to an amazing day and amazing couple.

Vendors: Landmark Center (venue), Kastina & Co (venue), Sadie's Floral (florist), Linen Effects (decor), Deco Catering (catering), Natural Media (videographer), Eva Lendel (dress designer), My Darling Bridal (dress boutique), Ziel Bridal (hair and makeup), The Blue Water Kings (music)

Merina Burda