With sneaky plans in the works and an engagement ring in tow, Chris and Shayna headed to a Duluth for the weekend. What Shayna thought to be Chris’ birthday weekend quickly turned into something much more special– a weekend she would never forget. While strolling along the streets of Canal Park, Chris stooped down and popped the question. Her surprise was evident, but she, of course, said yes. Congratulations Chris and Shayna, and thanks for letting me capture your special moment!
Austin and Katie’s Surprise Winter Proposal
A cold and blustery afternoon at the Rose Garden is the last place Katie expected the man of her dreams to pop the question. She thought they were going for a walk, but Austin had other plans. The two strolled into the park, and I briefly made eye contact with the groom to be- it was on. I thought Katie spotted me so the cameras swung around towards Lake Superior and I played “tourist.” Austin led her to the Gazebo, pulled out the diamond ring and took a knee. She enthusiastically said yes, and the look on her face says it all! Congrats to the newly engaged and happy wedding planning.
Jenn and Eric’s Lester Park Winter Engagement
Jenn and Eric were introduced by a mutual friend, who suggested they go on a date. They both agreed and decided on the Yard House in the West End. It was a dark, loud environment–not ideal for a first date, but they had a good time talking and getting to know each other nonetheless. After the date, they both left with a sparkless, listless feeling, even though they had both had a good time. A few more dates passed, and they still didn’t feel a spark, which is when both Jenn and Eric sought out their friends for advice. Eric’s friend gave him direct instructions to go out with her again, and Jenn’s friends asked her if she had fun with Eric, to which she replied yes. Her friend then replied with a simple, “well, keep hanging out until you’re not having fun anymore; it’s not like you need to marry him!” Oh the irony.
Eric proposed during the 12 Bars of Christmas pub crawl in downtown Minneapolis. This is one of Jenn’s favorite nights of they year, so she takes it very seriously by bringing bags of ugly Christmas sweater vests, hats, glasses, jewelry, mustaches and whatever they need to get dressed up ridiculously and have fun. The happy couple was at a friend’s house getting ready to go out for the evening when Eric came over and grabbed Jenn’s hand. He then proposed, which was a huge surprise to everyone, including Jenn. After the proposal, they went out with their friends and celebrated the whole night.
The engagement shoot took place at Lester Park in Duluth, MN. It was a beautiful winter day to capture this couple’s happiness. At one point, my foot stepped through the ice, getting my shoe all wet. This annoying mishap was redeemed when the couple sent me a brand new pair of socks and an endearing note. I had a great time with this lovely couple, congratulations Jenn and Eric!
Hair and Make-Up – Fitger’s Salon
Priya and Nathan’s Wedding at The Loft at Studio J
Priya and Nathan met for the first time in their sophomore year of college. Priya arrived early and perched herself on an open lab bench alone. Nathan came in late, saw an open seat next to her, and sat down. After a few unsuccessful attempts at asking her out, Nathan finally got the answer he was hoping for. Their first date was at a Thai restaurant in Uptown, which was followed by the couple watching the movie, “Up,” and since this was where their love story officially started, it was, literally, all up from there.
Nathan proposed on a weekend family visit to Iowa. They were about to go to bed when Nathan asked if Priya would like to watch “Up.” She excitedly agreed and opened the DVD case to find a ring positioned where the movie should have been. It was a beautiful, touching surprise.
The couple decided to tie the knot at The Loft at Studio J in Stillwater, MN. It was a beautiful, late fall day to say, “I do,” on. Priya sported a gorgeous dress and a stunning smile, and Nathan was looking as sharp as ever. It was a beautiful testament to love, and I was happy to be a part of it.
Ceremony – The Loft at Studio J
Flowers – Fleur de Lis
Ice Cream – Leo’s Grill and Malt Shop
Catering – The Green Room
Cake – Angel Food
Make Up – Spa Beauty
DJ – Bellagala
Robes – Sudara
Hair – Kai Salon
Sara and Adam’s Kitchi Gammi Club Wedding
Sara and Adam met online and immediately hit it off. They had their first date at Grandma’s in Canal Park, and have been together ever since!
Adam proposed on a surprise weekend trip to Lutsen. He deliberately would not tell Sara where they were going, and only said to, “bring inside clothes, outside clothes, something nice for dinner, and a swimsuit.” She abided, and the couple made their way to Lutsen, where they immediately checked into an amazing poplar river condo, which was right on the water. They went hiking all day Saturday, and at the end of the day, Adam finally asked if Sara would “accompany him to dinner as his fiance?” She, of course, said yes!
The leaves of the trees on this late fall day were crisp and gorgeous, which made for a perfect setting for this happy couple’s wedding day. The couple said “I do,” at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, a beautiful church which happens to be where Sara’s parents got married as well. The ceremony was the first time Adam saw his wedding ring, allowing Sara to pick it out for him, which was a beautiful demonstration of trust. They then made their way to the Kitchi Gammi Club in Duluth, MN, which her parents are members of, to celebrate the knot being officially tied. It was a beautiful day full of love and happiness, and I was honored to be a part of it. Congratulations Sara and Adam!
Ceremony – St. Paul’s Episcopal Church
Venue – Kitchi Gammi Club
Entertainment – Pro Sound & Light Show