The first time I met Amanda it was at my studio, over a year ago. She came with her mom and after our meeting I KNEW I wanted to work with them. Then at our engagement session I finally met the man who stole Amanda’s heart. I knew Mark and Amanda were meant to be after meeting Mark, and I knew we would stay friends even after the wedding was over. It’s not everyday that I meet a couple like them. They are both incredibly thoughtful, and the kind of people who inspire those around them. 

THE WEDDING VENUE

M&A chose the Semple Mansion for their reception, and the Chapel of St. Thomas for the ceremony. Both locations are beautiful, and were perfect for a winter wedding. 

One of the reasons I love the Semple is the Bridal Room for getting ready. The big mirror, the gorgeous light, the wallpaper and beautiful chairs, the chandelier… It’s perfect! 

I also have to point out one of the gifts Mark gave Amanda. You’ll see a flower in one of the pictures below. This flower has gone through a process that will preserve it forever like that. He gave it to symbolize their love. 

All the while at the man cave, Mark opened his gift from Amanda: Personalized Nikes with their wedding date. How cute is that?? 

THE FIRST LOOK

Mark wanted to see Amanda walking down the steps to him, and I have to say, I loved it! He was able to fully take her in until she reached the final step. His favorite part about her dress? The sparkles. 

January 14, 2017 was a beautiful, sunny, cold day. The lack of wind and sun helped us stay outside for photos, and kept us from freezing! I loved how the sun hitting Amanda’s dress made her look like a snow princess! 

THE WEDDING PARTY

A wedding party of 8 girls and 7 guys! So much love in this group! I was thrilled when I saw the bridesmaids dress color, as I’ve never, in over 100 weddings, photographed this color! I love how it looks, especially with the snowy background. The fur gifted to the bridesmaids from Amanda was the icing on the cake for me! 

THE CEREMONY

A full mass at the beautiful Chapel of St. Thomas. I got emotional seeing the look in Mark’s eyes when Amanda entered the room. This, by far, is one of my favorite moments at a wedding. 

THE RECEPTION

A winter wedding with golds, glitter, and snow flakes! The decoration at the Semple was impeccable! The best man speech brought me (and the entire room) to tears, and we were all blessed with the best food (that steak!!!) and cupcakes anyone could ask for! 

Did I mention Amanda also got Nikes to match Mark’s? We are officially obsessed with these two! 

Mark and Amanda, THANK YOU! 

VENDORS: 

Reception Venue – Semple Mansion 

Ceremony Site –  St. Thomas Aquinas Chapel at the University of St. Thomas

Catering – Brie Catering 

Florist – Sadie’s Couture Floral 

Bakery – PJ Murphy’s Bakery

DJ – Lux Entertainment 

Dress – Posh Bridal Wayzata

Tuxedos & Bridesmaid Dresses – The Wedding Shoppe

Wedding Coordinator – Leslie Johnson from Positively Charmed