Julia and Matthew

Wedding Date: September 30th 2022

Family is usually one of the most important things on a wedding day, but when you’re Julia and Matthew, family is your number one every single day and the wedding day is no different. This incredible family wanted to make sure that their love and the love for their children was the centerpiece of their day and their life together and I think they really succeeded. This was also a notable wedding for me because it was one of my last weddings at the Minneapolis venue, Aria. We’ve made many friends there over the years and captured so many memories, love stories, and events, it was honestly a bit bittersweet to be there one last time. But per usual, Julia, Matthew, and their family pulled me out of any melancholy moods and made sure the day was a pure delight!

We started their day in the beautiful bridal suit with Julia surrounded by the kids all helping her put on her finishing touches. The girls watched the world pass out the window as they waited for the big event to begin. Matthew waited at the end of the beautiful industrial corridor and listened as Julia’s footsteps moved closer and closer with a bit of hurried excitement. The moment their eyes met you knew they were exactly where they needed to be; together. These two show their passion and love for each other in every glance, embrace, and smile. It’s so easy to be drawn in and admire their beautiful love. After their first look, Kindred Flowers presented Julia with one of the most stunning bouquets I’ve ever seen and it was only matched by the ceremony decor that soon followed.

After the guests had all taken their place, I stopped for a moment to admire this gorgeous space and the incredible attention to detail that had gone into making this day so special. From the flowers, to the caring staff, to all of their family and friends, their ceremony was filled with love and care from top to bottom. They exchanged their vows surrounded by their children who all held hands right before they were pronounced husband and wife. It was such a special moment and one that I’ll remember for a very long time. 

We snuck away to a few of my favorite secret spots within Aria after the ceremony. They were the perfect pair for the space and were up for a fun little portrait session which I enjoyed thoroughly! Then we made our way back to the reception and the crowd all cheered as they burst through the doors and shared a romantic kiss. They shared toasts and their first dance which was then followed by a fun dance party in which their kids definitely stole the show with their excellent dance moves. It was a wonderful day and the perfect way to celebrate love in a beautiful venue that has seen so many love stories over the years.

Vendors: Aria (venue), Laine Palm (wedding planner), Kindred Flowers (florist), Linen Effects (decor), Nora Events (lighting), Chowgirls (catering), Beez Neez Bakery (cake), Crazy Cam (photo booth), Annika Bridal (dress boutique), Primped (hair and makeup), Nora Events (music), Coffee Cart Minneapolis (coffee)

Merina Burda