Wedding Date: August 19th 2023

When I met Kelsey and Steve we had an instant connection. We talked about their wedding dreams of course, but then the conversation quickly turned to golf and exchanging stories. They had always dreamt of getting married at the famous Hazeltine Golf Club and it was my dream to play there someday. I had photographed weddings there before, but never actually got out on the course. We became closer as their big day approached, and then they surprised me with a unique invitation to join them for a round of golf the Monday before their wedding. This was truly a dream come true and I jumped at the opportunity! It was the perfect lead up to the wedding day and we chatted about everything they were excited about.

When the day finally arrived, I met them back at the iconic course where they were waiting with excited smiles. Kelsey’s mom helped her with her finishing touches before she gave hugs to her family and followed me outside to meet Steve. He had a very special place in mind for their first look, in the shade of a beautiful tree and an incredible view. We sat admiring the course in front of him while she made her way out to meet him. This is one of my favorite reactions of the year! His face embodies joy and excitement in its purest form and I couldn’t help but get goosebumps and smile myself. They laughed and talked while the sun shone down on them in approval. We soon met up with their wedding party who had me on my toes and laughing from the moment they joined us. I knew this was a great crew from that first moment!

Then it was time to make our way to the church where the guests were already arriving. Steve waited at the end of the aisle for his beloved and they both smiled wide as their eyes met and she walked toward him. It was as if they were the only two people in the room. They shared heartfelt messages and special prayers filled with tears of both joy and sadness for those that weren’t with us today. But the love in the room overshadowed all else and it was now time to be pronounced husband and wife. They wiped the tears from their cheeks, a smile spread across their faces, and the entire crowd joined in cheering on the newlyweds. Their love filled the space as they walked down the aisle, sharing another kiss as they went.

We stopped for a celebratory toast before making our way out to the course. The sun was just beginning to set and the light was warm and perfect. We walked through the tall grasses with the sunset filling my lens as they walked hand in hand across the horizon. Back inside, the guests cheered as they made their way across the dance floor to their table. They thanked their guests and enjoyed heartfelt toasts and a delicious dinner. Then it was their turn to share their first dance. They glided and twirled as the crowd watched lovingly. I couldn’t help myself, I had to grab a quick selfie with them before the night was over so I could capture our faces enjoying each and every moment. Thank you both so much, this was a summer day to cherish!

Vendors: Hazeltine National Golf Club (venue and catering), St. Michael's Lutheran Church (ceremony), Anne Young (wedding planner), Christina Anderson (florist), Coco and Fig (dessert), The Wedding Shoppe (dress), Men's Warehouse (suit), Primped (hair and makeup), Ben Aust (dj and photo booth)