I walked into this little church in Shakopee last Saturday, and the coordinator took me to a back chapel, and told me that was the place where the bride would be getting ready. It was very dark, full of pews, and glass stained windows. Then I saw the flower girl by the window, and realized all hope was not lost. When the bride arrived, I put her in front of the window, exposed for her skin, and took one of my favorite images I have EVER taken (above on the right). 

As a photographer I never know what I’ll walk into when it comes to weddings. However, experience has taught me to fight hard for all the shots I want, and to always look for that light peaking through. 

THE BRIDE & GROOM

Six years ago these two started dating. That means they’ve had six years to be completely sure because saying “I do.” As Sammi walked towards Justin for their first look, I could see the emotion on his face. He turned around and couldn’t hold it. Looking through my lens I saw true love as they hugged, kissed, and laughed together. 

THE WEDDING PARTY

Can we start by saying the colors chosen were beautiful in contrast to the snow? And the ice candle holders made by the bride’s dad were to die for! This very fun group kept me on my toes the entire time. They were also incredibly kind and sweet! 

THE CEREMONY

Justin and Sammi chose to get married at the same church her sister got married three years earlier, in Shakopee. Sammi also wore the same bracelet her sister did, as her “something borrowed.”  

And then it was time for a lot more fun! We headed to the newly built Chaska Curling Center and I love all the winter backgrounds. Who would have guessed we would have close to 40 degree weather on January 21? 

When we did their engagement session, it was also winter time, and it looked just like Saturday did… One lucky couple! We did miss their puppy who made an appearance at their engagement session, but couldn’t make it to the wedding. 

THE RECEPTION

You know what I’m loving about being a wedding photographer and being part of so many weddings? People are really doing it right and skipping traditions to make the wedding about THEM! Donuts instead of a cake sounds good to me, and they looked and tasted AMAZING! 

WEDDING VENDORS: 

Photography –  Poly Mendes Photography

Hair – Heidi Carroll

Makeup – Danielle Kruger

Church – St. Mary’s Church Shakopee

Event Center – The Chaska Event Center

Videography – Greg Thuente; Thuente Productions Videography

Donuts – YoYo Donuts

DJ – Daniel Gallagher, Studio Veil

Florist – Scheryl Goetze, Flowers by Scheryl

Cake – Rick Cronin

Bride’s Dress – Allure Bridal Couture

Bridesmaid Dresses: Effie’s Bridal Trunk

Grooms/Groomsmen: Savvi Formalwear