Wedding Date: December 9th 2022

Sometimes you meet people and you instantly know that you’re going to be lifelong friends. When I met Nicci and Craig back in 2019, I think we all came away from that meeting with the same thought and couldn’t wait to keep the conversation going. A lot has happened since 2019 so their plans understandably changed a few times. When they began looking at venues in Minneapolis, I suggested that they visit the Machine Shop and they completely fell in love. They knew this was it and they began planning their dream wedding right here in the city.

Nicci loves the holidays so they chose a date in December and teamed up with the incredibly talented Rachelle of Style-Architects to create a dreamy winter wonderland. I met up with this fun-loving couple on the morning of their wedding at the Canopy Hotel to find Nicci glittering and glowing from head to toe (literally and figuratively). She was thrilled for their day to finally be here and couldn’t wait to see her beloved. As I entered Craigs room, he was equally excited and he couldn’t stop talking about when he finally got to see Nicci. That’s just how these two are, they’re made for each other! Craigs daughter helped him tie his bowtie and gave her seal of approval before he made his way to the bridal suite to finally see Nicci. Craig’s expression at the moment he saw Nicci is priceless and captures the feeling perfectly. They embraced, laughed, twirled, and couldn’t take their eyes off one another. I get goosebumps just thinking about it. Seeing two people so perfect for each other come together is what makes this job the best in the entire world.

Rachelle’s team must have some secret fairy dust up their sleeves because this was the most magical ceremony setup I think I’ve ever seen. Paper feathers hung from the two story ceiling and white ribbon and lights danced around them. They created a beautiful modern take on a teepee as a nod to Nicci’s Native American background and lit the aisle with glowing candles. Everyone’s jaw dropped as soon as they entered into this magical wonderland and counted their blessings that they were in attendance for such a special occasion. After the “I do’s” I stole them away for a little walk along the frozen river to take in the skyline and relish in the moment. I stood back and let them soak it all in as they cheered and thanked the heavens.

Everyone made their way upstairs for a fun cocktail hour as the scene below transformed into a dreamy reception hall right before our eyes. The tables were decorated with real feathers that had special meaning to the couple. During their wedding planning, they would take long walks together and pick up special fallen feathers along the way. This soon turned into a loving ritual and they had saved quite a collection. It was as if even nature was giving its blessing to this sweet pair! The warm candlelight now lit the room as it was filled with their loved ones once again in awe of the beauty and all the personal touches. As they twirled across the floor during their first dance, the whole room was filled with a love that could only be described as true. I’m so thankful that these new friends have entered my life and can’t wait to see where the journey takes all of us!

Vendors: Machine Shop (venue), Style-Architects Weddings & Events (wedding planner), Studio C (florist), Botany Creative Works (florist), Linen Effects (decor), Rudy's Rentals (decor), Apres (decor), Phos (lighting), D'Amico (catering), Wuollet (cake), Cafe Latte (dessert), The Traveling Photo Booth (photo booth), Alma Films (videographer), Annika Bridal (bridal boutique), Suit Supply (grooms suit), Heather Trachsel (makeup), Dylan Harrison (hair), Christina Fyffe (hair), DJ Dudley D (music), No Music No Party (music)