Wedding Date: August 16th 2025

Mari and Eli’s day started at The Depot in downtown Minneapolis, where Mari and her bridesmaids were finishing up hair and makeup in a sun-drenched suite. Just before we headed to the chapel, Mari shared a first look with her dad and her brother and I don’t think I’ll forget the way all three of them beamed. No tears, just joy. Meanwhile, Eli and his groomsmen were already in their own suite full of laughs and toasts and good energy as they waited for the day to begin.

Their ceremony took place at the Chapel of St. Thomas Aquinas, a gorgeous, light-filled space on Summit Avenue in St. Paul that feels both grand and intimate. Mari wore a cathedral-length veil that seemed made for that aisle, and the way she smiled as she walked toward Eli… it was everything. The ceremony itself was traditional and heartfelt, filled with sweet glances and soft laughter. They didn’t see each other before the ceremony so the moment their eyes met was absolute magic.

After the ceremony, we explored the Mill City district and the Guthrie Theater with the towering glass walls and open riverfront views. The group was full of energy, cracking jokes and soaking it all in. It felt like the perfect in-between: a little bit of celebration, a little bit of quiet magic before the night took off.

And take off it did.

When Mari and Eli arrived at the Union Depot, the crowd stood and cheered, the kind of cheer that says, we’ve been waiting for this moment with you. The room was stunning. The lighting. The florals. The space transformed into a glowing reception full of love and laughter. Toasts were shared, and I watched tears mix with laughter around the room, the best kind of speeches, the kind that remind you just how special these two are to so many people.

Their first dance and parent dances were beautiful. And then suddenly, the floor filled and the party came alive. Glow sticks waving, shoes kicked off, laughter echoing off the marble. We snuck away for just a moment to take a quiet evening stroll, giving Mari and Eli a breather to soak it all in together before the last of the light faded.

Vendors: The Depot (venue), Chapel of St Thomas Aquinas (ceremony), Buttercream (dessert), Festivities (decor), Bridal & Jewel Co (dress boutique), Marah Cole Designs (florist), Taylor Marie Beauty (hair and makeup)