We celebrated Anna and Tyler's love...
...on one of the hottest days of the summer. You might think this would be an inconvenience - and don't get us wrong, we were drenched in sweat by the end of the day - but we actually found it quite fitting in a way. When we first began working with this sweet couple, Anna let us know how much she loves plants and greenery - which is why part of their engagement session took place in a greenhouse! We spoke with Anna at length about her love of the tropical Monstera plant, so it was oddly serendipitous when she and Tyler's big day featured weather that the Monstera would love: hot and humid!
The big day started with the entire wedding party waking up and getting ready at the Upland Estate, where they had played games and had a slumber party the night before. The historic estate was a beautiful backdrop to feature Anna's stunning dress and some photos with her bridesmaids. Once ready, we headed to the wedding and reception venue.
The Outpost Center in Chaska has a rustic charm on a plethora of land, and we did our best to make use of it all! The couple opted to do first looks with their parents - Tyler with his mom and Anna with her dad - which were both very emotional. And instead of reading vows to each other during their ceremony, Anna and Tyler opted to read them to each other privately prior to their first look. Their words were so beautifully chosen and earnestly felt, we had to hold back tears ourselves! With the waterworks already going, their first look was that much more emotional.
The ceremony took place behind the Outpost Center, overlooking its sprawling landscape. Upon its completion, the wedding couple quickly celebrated with an intimate toast before the wedding guests made their way inside for cocktail hour and the reception.
The decor was thoughtfully chosen to reflect Anna's fondness for greenery, and its slightly rustic feel was the perfect complement to the venue. Dinner was a delicious taco bar, and guests were treated to many heartfelt speeches as they enjoyed their meal. Anna and Tyler had selected a small cake and cupcakes for dessert, and prior to their cake cutting they surprised Anna's aunt and uncle who were celebrating their 40th wedding anniversary that very same day. This speaks to the couple's love for their family, and perhaps moreso to their overall character as thoughtful, giving, and inclusive human beings.
With the sun getting lower, the temperature began to drop and a refereshing breeze arrived just in time for Anna and Tyler's sunset photos. This ended up being one of our favorite parts of the day, not only for the photos we were able to capture but also for the way Anna and Tyler were able to finally be alone and revel in their newlywed status.
Upon returning to the Outpost Center, the couple decided to do their first dances outdoors amongst the growing twilight and their loved ones. They ended their magical day with dancing, s'mores around a bonfire, and yard games. For a summertime wedding, what could be more perfect than that?
Ceremony and Reception Venue - The Outpost Center | Getting Ready Venue - The Upland Estate | Hair - War Paint International | Makeup - Tess Natterstad | Music - Instant Request DJ | Floral - Tulips and a Kiss | Catering - Chef Jeff Catering | Officiant - Pastor Don Eslinger | Bride and Bridesmaids - The Wedding Shoppe | Groom and Groomsmen - Bill's Toggery
