Wedding Date: May 20th 2023

I’m so lucky that I get to meet so many incredible people in my profession and Eleanor and Andrew are two of the best. These two have hearts of gold who have made taking care of others their life and passion. Eleanor will be going to school soon to become a physician assistant and is sweet and loving and makes you feel cared for just being in her presence. While Andrew started a non-profit, Minnesota Warriors Hockey, to help veterans during their transitional phase and to find their team and community once again. Like I said, these two are pretty incredible.

They knew they wanted to celebrate their wedding at the beautiful Bavaria Downs from the very beginning and it seemed like the perfect fit for the party of the summer. I met up with Eleanor and her family and friends in the bridal suite as she was putting on her finishing touches. Her stunning dress and long hair transformed her into a princess right out of a fairytale. When the suite doors opened to reveal her finished look to her bridesmaids, they couldn’t help but scream and cry and of course make her do a few grand twirls. She happily twirled in the sunshine, beaming from ear to ear, her joy was contagious and everyone on the balcony couldn’t stop smiling. Then, she caught a glimpse of Andrew waiting down by the fountain and I think I could feel her heart skip a beat. She threw me a look that said, let’s go meet him! And so we did…

The warm summer day seemed to have been tailor made just for them. The sun shone, the leaves showed off their most vibrant colors, and everyone around them was thrilled to be there and radiated positivity and love. Even their dog joined in the fun getting kisses and snuggles from the happy pair. After exploring the grounds with their friends, the guests began to arrive and we retreated back inside for the big reveal. Andrew walked his family down the aisle and waited for his bride to appear over the hill in the distance. When she did, everyone turned and watched in awe as she made her way to Andrew’s side. The scent of roses filled the air and the cool breeze off the water kept the audience comfortable as they enjoyed the sweet exchange of vows. Then with a triumphant kiss, they walked down the aisle, beaming the entire way.

Eleanor had a few highlights that she wanted to visit on the property so it felt like we were doing a greatest hits tour and I absolutely loved it! We visited my favorite spot next to the creek so they could dip their toes in and enjoy the cool water. Then we decided to take the long way back and enjoyed the field and tall grasses. It felt like we had the entire place to ourselves and it was the perfect way for them to enjoy their newlywed bliss. We made our way back to the reception where the party was ready and excited to welcome the couple with cheers and hollers from the crowd. After a few touching toasts, Andrew received a truly remarkable surprise. The Minnesota Hockey Hall of Fame was honoring his work with veterans and was adding his jersey to their collection highlighting his non-profit. He was thrilled and honored, but no one was more proud than lovely Eleanor sitting by his side. We ended the night by stepping away from the party to watch from the large picture window. The music from the dance floor could be heard faintly and they smiled as they watched their loved ones enjoy the party as the colored lights lit up the night sky. Then one last kiss by the signature fountain and the night was complete.

Vendors: Bavaria Downs (venue), Bellagala (florist), D'Amico (catering), Michael Zvonar (videographer), Pronovias (dress designer), The White Room (dress boutique), Milbern Clothing Company (suit), Jesus Garcia (makeup), Briana Malachesen (hair), Custom Sewing by Heather (dress alterations)