Olivia and Ross

Wedding Date: September 25th 2021

When Olivia and Ross decided to get married, they thought, why wait? I was on a family fishing trip in Alaska when I must have somehow stepped into phone service because my phone rang and it was Nancy, the incredible mother and coordinator of this stunning day. When I returned to Minnesota, planning was in full swing with the event only a short time away. Olivia loved the idea of it taking place at her parents lake home to keep it small and intimate. They situated the ceremony at a beautiful spot on the hill overlooking Lake Minnetonka with the house and lavishly decorated event tent in the background. We wanted to make the ceremony extra special, so they worked with a local antique boat organization and found the most amazing man who donated his boat and volunteered to drive Olivia to the ceremony. The best part? Only a handful of people knew it was happening. When the music played and the stage was set, everyone, including Ross, looked toward the house watching for Olivia and her father. But then, the hum of an antique wood boat could be heard in the distance and everyone shifted their gaze and was in for a stellar surprise entrance. After vows were exchanged, champagne was poured, and confetti flew, I boarded the boat with the generous driver and the newlyweds for a cruise around the lake that I’ll never forget. This was a perfect autumn day with big blue skies that reflected in the inky blue water. We were welcomed back to the reception by the smell of the most incredible meal that awaited us. Course after course, everyone toasted to the happy couple and laughter and good conversation filled the evening air. I watched as guests relaxed in their chairs looking up at the stars through the clear tent roof. It really was the perfect day, followed by the perfect evening, for the most amazing and deserving couple. Thank you all for inviting me to capture this day that felt like an absolute dream.

Amazing Vendors: Apres (tent and decor), BHLDN (dress boutique), Ingrid Kent (hair and makeup), The String Showdown (music)

Merina Burda