Ashley & T | Aria Minneapolis Wedding

I haven't blogged a wedding in awhile. Truthfully I have been busier than I would like to be, and each moment "off the clock" I have been soaking up the MN summer sun.  Also I am not sure if anyone reads blogs anymore?  And also I treat vacation as sacred and love shutting off my email.  And while I am sure other photographers would prefer not to admit that they can't keep up the illusion of "doing it all" (or also maybe they can and I just love playing with clay and having coffee with people who friend me on instagram)...but either way, I have needed a break....

But THIS wedding was just calling to be shared!  Yes, it was at one of the coolest venues in the city, including vintage flags, a flower wall made by the bride, gold spray painted dinosaurs, a live band, smores bar for dessert, and so much more I could brag about (and certainly will share enough pictures to show that off).  But what made it so special was it didn't feel like a work day in the least.  Ashley and Andrew and family just let me in, and I felt as if I fit into their day so gracefully.   I think that is what makes Ashley and Andrew so amazing.  You feel their energy as soon as you are in their presence, their joy, their tears, their wholehearted smiles, are contagious.  You just know you are in the presence of a big big love. 

Oh and also they can throw one hell of a party!

**Also huge shout out to my talented second photographer Annabelle.  (check out her work!) 

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Nicole & Steph | Duluth Minnesota Wedding Photography

Nicole and Steph's Duluth wedding cracked open a beautiful idea. The couple is the main focus of the day, followed by the community that surrounds them, but there was a third subject their wedding so wonderfully brought to life, PLACE.  

The day started at the salon down the street.  Nicole got her make-up done by someone who knew her since she was three.  Then Nicole and Steph caught up over lunch, relaxed and got ready together in their own home.  Follow that up with a first look at their high school where they had first started dating 6 years ago.  Their day also included a surprise trip to the hospital (conveniently enough where they both work) to visit their new niece that decided she too wanted to be around for their day.  Everything, from ceremony and reception location, the local jewelry and wedding band, and a sunset stroll along Lake Superior, so perfectly highlighted the city in which they found love.  

Elena & Mike

Elena took a bet on me before I had ever photographed a single wedding.  She was laid back, carefree and all in (and I love her for it).   When I met both of them for coffee, I knew it was a perfect match.  They understood that a wedding day should be spent enjoying one another, the company of loved ones, and each part of the day.  For the images they wanted a way of seeing the story over again, with special attention to the small moments they may have missed or would otherwise go forgotten.   I absolutely loved capturing the love between the two of them on the most beautiful of spring days to say I DO.   What a perfect start to wedding season.