Melissa and Eric

Eric and Melissa planned their wedding day events to a tee, commencing at 6 AM to decorate the reception venue  (the Wildwood Lodge Pavilion). We would take getting ready photos beginning at 10 AM at the Wildwood Lodge in Lake Elmo, and board the historic Empress Adiamo at 1:30 PM. The sun would come out at 2 PM. All went as planned :)

The "first glimpse" photos are always some of my favorites. I prefer they be in a private setting, but just off to camera left is busy Highway 36 going into Stillwater. Traffic is backed up bumper to bumper, and a few well-wishers are honking their horns as Melissa approaches Eric.

It was pretty windy. The bouquets on the dress not only look good, but they held her dress in place, as the wind kept flipping the train.

A relative made the flowers - they were gorgeous.

As if on cue, the moment the processional began, the overcast skies turned to partly cloudy...

...but the wind kept things interesting.

I must say Eric had the most unique approach to retrieving the garter that I've ever seen! 

Amanda and Chad

Temps in the mid-80's, low humidity, bright sunshine - all wonderful elements for a beautiful wedding, and we were blessed with all three on Sept. 10. Amanda and Chad were married in rural Meriden. their Their first glimpse came with Amanda approaching Chad on horseback.  Following the service, they staged a grand getaway that began in a '32 Ford street rod, and continued in a horse-drawn wagon to the National Guard Armory in Owatonna.

Dana and Logan, the flower girl and ringbearer were precious! Initially a little shy, they quickly warmed up and enjoyed having their pictures taken.

Chad's love of fishing was incorporated into the wedding theme with lures on corsages, a creel card basket, and party favors at the reception.

The coupe belongs to Amanda's parents.

Amanda's aunt and uncle own the horses and wagon.

Dana had quite a few special requests for photos. And such a charmer, she was hard to resist.

Is Logan cute, or what!

Their vendors:

Hair: Hair-i-tage, Owatonna

Caterer: Divine Swine Catering

DJ: PSL (Performance Sound and Lighting)

The flowers, cake, and decorations were made by family and friends.

Jessica and Jeff

This particular post might have happened a year or so ago, but duty called, and Jeff was deployed overseas. Plans were postponed, and rescheduled...and voila! The much anticipated wedding of Jessica and Jeff came to be on August 27. Good things come to those who wait! 

I'm glad photographers don't have to wear high heels - gorgeous shoes, but I'm pretty sure they'd kill my feet!

This place is a riot! And one of Jessica's bridesmaids happens to own it! If you're ever in Cobden, check it out!

Their vendors:
Hair - Classic Trends, New Ulm
Flowers - A 2 Zinnia
Decorator - Chris Fischer Designs
Reception - Jackpot Junction Casino and Hotel, Morton
Cake - Wendy Besel, St. James
Limo - Knights Luxury Transport, Comfrey

Jackie

Jackie had her high school senior session this past weekend. We made images on her grandparents farm, and around Elysian, including Lake Francis. Jackie is the second in a family of five, and her mother assured me I'll be photographing the remaining three children for their senior pictures as well! (There is nothing better than return customers!!) Here are just a few of the many images we took.

We literally chased the sunset to get this shot - knew we wanted it - just had to run to get it, around 8:20 PM. Too bad our days are getting shorter so quickly! Looking forward to a winter session with Jackie as well!