Wedding Date: October 8th 2022

This autumn has really been showing off in a big way. Between the gorgeous weather and the bright leaves, it seems like the perfect weekend to be outside. I was daydreaming and admiring the colorful leaves along my drive as I pulled up to the house where Madalyn and Eric would start their day. Madalyn wasn’t the only one putting on her finishing touches, but both sets of parents were as well. Their mothers decided to do their own little dress reveal for their husbands who were knocked off their feet at the sight of their wives all ready for the big day. It was a really fun and sweet way to set the tone for the day and showed right away how close these families were.

After exchanging hugs all around, Madalyn was off to meet Eric for their first look. He waited along the riverbank that was colored yellow by the changing leaves. She excitedly approached and they both laughed and embraced, lighting up the already bright scenery. Then we heard a few extra giggles and chatter from behind us. Their parents had climbed to the top of a hill so they could witness the special moment. They went back to Nicollet Island for a quick toast before we met up with their wedding party and I got to play tour guide. They were really open for anything so I took them to a few of my all-time favorites. Our first stop was Black Stack Brewing, where we enjoyed their excellent beer selection and lounge that looked like it came right out of the pages of a magazine.

Guests began filling the outdoor ceremony space overlooking the river and could be heard talking about the beautiful day and their excitement. The crowd was filled with joy and smiles spread across every face as they turned to see Madalyn walk down the aisle toward Eric. I don’t know if it was the cool breeze, their sweet vows, or the incredible light that filtered in through the leaves, but I had goosebumps their entire ceremony.

They were excited to celebrate with their friends once more before entering the ballroom to the sound of applause. I was joined by my good friend and Team Photographer, Tim Long, who captured the joy of the guests and special moments during the toasts. The team at the pavilion had installed some gorgeous new lighting and they were some of the first to get to experience the beauty first hand. We went outside to enjoy them and then continued down to the riverside to take in the skyline view. The calming distant sound of the river mixing with the music from the party all under a sea of stars was the perfect way to end the evening and begin their next chapter in life.

Vendors: Nicollet Island Pavilion (venue), Haute House (wedding planner and florist), Mintahoe (decor, catering, lighting), Maggie Sottero Designs (dress designer), Beckers Bridal (dress boutique), Atmosfere (suit), Greta Olson (makeup and hair), Jocey Buckler (hair), Champagne Press (stationery), Instant Request (dj)