Weddings North - 2020

Weddings North 2020 VENUE GUIDE

PLAN ON A PLANNER

SIMPLY STUNNING — REAL COUPLES —

A BRAINERD DISPATCH PUBLICATION 2020 | Weddings North 1

© Kelley Jo Imaging

Pine Peaks is a unique Destination Wedding Resort of magnificent surroundings in the middle of the Brainerd Lakes area. We provide an easy and relaxing experience for you, and offer exceptional service for a stress free, perfect three to four day experience. Our on-site Retreat Lodge will house your entire Wedding Party or families. Our Event Center has everything you will need for your wedding. One visit to our gorgeous facility and we know you’ll fall in love.

PINE PEAKS EVENT CENTER

39957 Swanburg Road South | Crosslake, MN 56442 612 986-6800 | www.PinePeaksEventCenter.com

We have partnered with Pine Peaks Lodge and Suites, a boutique Hotel just six miles away in beautiful downtown Crosslake for your out of town wedding guests.

© Tim Larsen

WHILE OTHER WEDDING VENUES ARE COLLECTING DUST…..

WE ARE COLLECTING AWARDS. 2019

PICK

2019

SPONSORED CONTENT

PHOTO BY JOHN HANSON PHOTOGRAPHY

Weekend Weddings—More Memorable Moments Pine Peaks Wedding and Event Center

BY SHEILA HELMBERGER What if you could spend your entire wedding weekend celebrating with your friends and family at a beautiful, private, 80-acre gated estate?

With Pine Peaks Wedding and Event Center near Crosslake, owner Dave Peterson and his wife, Julie, have created a wedding resort that offers a true destination wedding. Secluded, away from everything, they make it possible to wake up the morning of your vows and have a cup of coffee and relax instead of running around from place to place picking up items you’ve rented.

Dave and Julie supply almost anything a wedding couple might need.

They furnish the tables, chairs, linens, chair covers, and skirting in multiple colors. Chair sashes and table runners in 24 colors plus an entire storage room filled with decorations. “Most people don’t have to haul much at all,” he says. Set up is done by the wedding party and take down is done by staff at Pine Peaks.

The Property Dave gives each couple an extensive tour of the property when they meet – and there’s a lot to see. The property, owned by four generations of Petersons, offers a view from every deck and porch of serene beauty. It’s a

photographer’s dream of rolling hills, corn fields and flowers. Several sites for the ceremony include your choice of arbors and each is surrounded by wildflower and perennial gardens.

There is a bubbling rock, and a pond with a fountain in the spring through warm fall months.

The seasons in lake country can change quickly, sometimes overnight.

Raising or lowering tent walls and utilizing heaters or fans, you can create your ideal temperature and make the atmosphere as cozy or as open as you’d like.

The Big Day Pine Peaks Wedding and Event Center partners with Maucieri’s Restaurant in Crosslake for catering services. The wedding couple and staff will work together to create the reception menu.

“We allow customers to bring their own desserts and snacks for their reception,” says Dave. Parking spaces are available for many motorhomes with power, sewer and water hookups. Delivery, setup and removal for RV rentals can be arranged.

The Retreat House “Just about every couple uses our retreat house,” says Dave. Across a pathway from the event center is a

5,000-square foot home with five bedrooms, four bathrooms and a loft with four more beds. “Typically, the wedding party and a few friends will stay here and have a nice time together for several days.” The master suite includes a Jacuzzi and a see-through fireplace. Also on site? A two-chair hair and makeup salon, a pool table, and laundry facilities.

The home features a gourmet kitchen, screened porch, pool table, games, an outdoor sauna and a propane fire pit.

Dave and Julie know your wedding is more than just one really big day.

It’s a weekend affair and the house is available to rent to couples from Thursday until Monday. A block of up to 28 rooms is available from Pine Peaks Lodge and Suites in Crosslake with shuttle service available to and from the reception.

Extras After rehearsal, just move your wedding party into a space in the pavilion and have your groom’s dinner right there. Wood-fire pizzas can be made, or you can DIY grill burgers or steaks for the wedding party, offering a nice laid-back evening before the big day.

There’s no doubt Pine Peaks offers a few extras that other places can’t.

Dave has two tractors that can be used for some fun photos and then to take a celebratory hayride.

“We’ve had over 340 weddings and no two have been the same,” he says. Nearly 50 weddings are already booked for 2020. We are now booking into 2021 and 2022. Unlike many venues we provide all liability insurances and a $25,000 Wed-Safe Wedding Cancellation Policy to keep your investment safe. Call 612-9866800 for more information and to set up a tour..

Pine Peaks Wedding and Event Center, with a capacity of around 300, has been the recipient of awards from The Knot and Wedding Wire as well as Best Wedding Venue in 2015 from Minneapolis St. Paul Magazine.

The Brainerd Dispatch and Pine Peaks Wedding and Event Center contributed to this content.

2020 | Weddings North 3

Weddings North 2020 VENUE GUIDE

PLAN ON A PLANNER

SIMPLY STUNNING

FEATURES

16

Hiring A Wedding Planner

22

Get Your Whole Body Wedding-Ready

A BRAINERD DISPATCH PUBLICATION 2020 | Weddings North 1

ON THE COVER

Photo by Tim Larsen Photography timlarsenphoto.com

Locally married brides explain the ease of a wedding planned by professionals.

By Sheila Helmberger

While deciding on flowers, food and venue, don’t forget you!

By Weddings North Staff

— REAL COUPLES —

Jennifer Sayward and Andrew Kallay from Rochester, Minnesota, married at Pine Peaks Wedding And Event Center.

CONTENTS 2020

36

2020 Venue Guide

A quick-look graph at facility and grounds offerings for venues advertised in this publication.

By Weddings North Staff Photos By Aimee Jobe

Real Couple Features 39957 Swanburg Road South, Pine River, MN 56474 612-986-6800 pinepeakseventcenter.com

Weddings North Weddings North is an annual publication published by the Brainerd Dispatch.

PUBLISHER PETE MOHS ADVERTISING DIRECTOR SUSIE ALTERS ELLER CONTENT COORDINATOR SARAH HERRON ART DIRECTOR LISA (HENRY) MORALES COPY EDITOR DELYNN HOWARD

ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES (218) 855-5895 (800) 432-3703 QUESTIONS, COMMENTS AND STORY SUGGESTIONS: (218) 855-5895 Advertising@BrainerdDispatch.com ATTN: WeddingsNorth Brainerd Dispatch P.O. Box 974 Brainerd, MN 56401

Get inspired by these gorgeous photo spreads of couples who married in lakes area.

Simply Elegant • 6 Abby & Mike Trinka

Romantic Retreat • 12 Samantha & Jacob Pedersen

Wedding Breeze • 26 Amanda & Joe Westlake

Lawfully Wedded • 8 Shannon & Patrick Sheady

Delightfully Danish • 20 Kayla & Matthew Jorgensen

Woodsy Celtic Gathering • 30 Alexandra & Joe Fisher

Lakeside Chic • 10 Kelly & Scott Rivers

Natural Harmony • 24 Rebekah & Christian Olsen

Little Bit Country • 32 Mercedes & Phillip Schillaci

SPONSORED CONTENT Arrowwood Lodge • 33

The Wedding of Your Dreams Breezy Point Resort • 27

Treat Yourself to an Easy Breezy Wedding Cragun’s on Gull Lake • 11

Perfect Wedding Destination Crow Wing County Fairgrounds • 25

Imagine the Possibilities Cub Foods • 15

Tastefully Keeping A Budget Grand View Lodge • 9

Any Size, Any Season E.L. Menk Jeweler • 7

Ring Trends In 2020

4 Weddings North | 2020

Knotty Pine Bakery • 29

Wedding Dessert is a Piece of Cake... and More!

Pine Peaks Wedding and Event Center • 21

Wedding Getaway For All— Including the Family Pet

Nisswa Community Event Center • 34

Pine Peaks Wedding and Event Center • 38

Northland Arboretum • 19

Timberlake Hotel And Timbers Event Center • 28

The Perfect Wedding Venue Secret

Winter Wedding Celebration

Gorgeous Wedding Scenery

Your Final Bill — Made Simple

Party Time Rental • 14

The Woods / Gather On 3 / b.merri • 31

Don’t Sweat The Set up Pine Peaks Wedding and Event Center • 3

Weekend Weddings— More Memorable Moments

Wedding Couples Can Now Gather on 3

Whitefish Lodge and Manhattan Beach Lodge • 13

Impeccable Taste

Minnesota’s Destination Wedding Venue UNIQUE. PERSONAL. POSSIBLE. Choose from a variety of ceremony and reception venues with endless lodging accommodations—all within walking distance of one another. Our team will strive for your ‘dream come true’ wedding day through our meticulous planning, award-winning cuisine, and breathtaking grounds. Any size, any season—your most memorable day of a lifetime awaits.

GRANDVIEWLODGE.COM

800-368-1885

2020 | Weddings North 5

REAL COUPLES

Simply Elegant Abby & Mike Trinka

PERFECT SENSE

“We live in the country and love to be outside with our animals... we got engaged in a barn! It only made sense we got married in a barn! Owners Kalie and Jeremiah made our wedding day a breeze getting married at [Stone Hill Farm]— from answering all our questions leading up to the day, making our visions come true, and being there for us throughout the weekend!

GET OUT THE MUD BOOTS

“Last minute plans made us bring the wedding indoors but we couldn’t have imagined our day being any more perfect! We even had guests show up in mud boots to the wedding...”

VENDOR APPRECIATION

“We were so thankful for all our amazing vendors for the time and effort put into making our wedding day so special!”

Vendor List Photographer: Kelley Jo Imaging Videographer: Jake Anderson Studios Venue: Stone Hill Farm, Eagle Bend Caterer: Meal—Ted & Gen’s Steakhouse Appetizers — Eats-N-Ale Cake/Cupcakes: Staples Bakery Floral: Ivory & Elm, Minneapolis Other Decor: Rentals from Ivory & Elm, signs and favors made by the mother of the bride.

Dress & Suits: Special Event Boutique, Alexandria DJ/Entertainment: Jim Opelia Officiant: Pastor Carl Larson with Faith Lutheran Church, Staples Hair: R Salon, Staples Make up: Katie Feil Guest accommodations: Timberlake Hotel; camping at Stone Hill Farm Transportation: Anderson Bus Real couple rating?

Services, vendors and location for a Brainerd lakes area wedding

DESTINATION WEDDING:

“We had a lot of family fly in, from NY, FL, CO, and MA. We had our Groom’s dinner at Cragun’s as well.

It was a great spot with a patio right by the lake. Our families loved it and the staff was so accommodating.

They also started a bonfire for us by the beach.”

6 Weddings North | 2020

SPONSORED CONTENT

RING TRENDS IN 2020 E. L. Menk Jeweler

Elongated shapes, side stones, yellow gold and unique gems are among the new looks.

BY LINDA HURST

What are some of the hottest trends in 2020 for engagement rings and bridal sets? The experts at E.L. Menk Jeweler have done the research and this is what they found.

Yellow Gold Yellow gold used to be the standard choice for engagement and wedding rings, however, starting in the 1990s the trend shifted towards white gold and platinum. But as we edge into the 2020s, the swing is moving back toward yellow gold. If you’re looking for a vintage or heirloom piece for your wedding set, then you’ll find that yellow gold fits the trend perfectly.

Elongated Shapes For years the perfect round diamond has symbolized the engagement ring, but coming up fast are elongated shapes. Oval, emerald, pear and elongated cushion shapes have skyrocketed in popularity over the past year. According to Pinterest trends, searches for elongated shapes is up by a whopping 143%. Based upon our local market sales, this trend appears to be spot on.

Side Accent Stones We can thank the Royals for this! From Meghan Markle to Princess Beatrice, the 3-stone engagement ring is now all the rage.

Moving into 2020 we expect fancy-shaped side stones to rule. Look for settings with an art deco-inspired look with tapered baguette diamonds or something more contemporary with pear, marquise or trillion shaped diamond accents.

Halos & Other Details Brides want their engagement rings to offer a hint of the dramatic. Elements such as halos, with a large center stone surrounded by smaller diamonds are a popular choice going into 2020. Settings that wow can feature

a small circle of diamonds that sit directly under the main stone, or settings with small accent side mounts.

Eternity Bands Not every engagement ring will have a large solitaire stone. Some brides are moving toward Eternity Bands, which are a show stopping and elegant alternative. The perfect ring of sparkling stones makes a statement from every angle.

Unique & One of a Kind We expect more brides in 2020 to look for something unique. Ask your jeweler for non-traditional settings and alternative stones such as emeralds, rubies or black diamonds. Look for bands that stand out with geometric shapes, multiple stones and other features. As you make it your own, your one of a kind ring quickly becomes a valued heirloom. If you don’t see exactly what you want, we can customize your entire design.

Natural Diamonds As brilliant as they are beautiful, natural stones come in a wide variety of cuts, colors and clarity. In this case, size doesn’t always dictate the price. If you’re shopping for a natural stone, ask to view it through a jeweler’s loupe so you can see the imperfections (inclusions) in the stone that makes it unique.

Ask your jeweler for recommendations on settings, the wedding band and anything else that might affect the wear of the piece.

When you purchase your ring from a jeweler, such as E.L.Menk Jeweler, you are working with professionals with decades of experience who can explain your diamond purchase in detail. Our staff can offer suggestions to customize your ring to perfectly match your personality. Their dedication to their profession is evident in every bridal set they sell.

Lab-Grown Diamonds Also known as created diamonds, these cultured stones are as beautiful as they are affordable. The composition is the same as a natural stone, except they’ve been created in a lab. All lab grown diamonds come in the same shapes and colors as the natural stones and as your guests admire your ring up close, they won’t be able to tell the difference.

2020 | Weddings North 7

REAL COUPLES

Lawfully Wedded Shannon & Patrick “ Sheady Vendor List Photographer: Andrew Vick, St. Louis Park Videographer: Curtis Kennedy Planner: Grand View Lodge, Nisswa Venue: Grand View Lodge, Nisswa Caterer: Grand View Lodge, Nisswa Cake: Cakes by Renee Miller, Brainerd Floral: Celebration Floral Design, Lake Shore Dress: Enzoani Suits: Savi DJ/Entertainment: Complete Weddings + Events, Brainerd Officiant: Micheal Sieve Hair and Make up: Meraki Salon, Mora Honeymoon: Cabo San Lucas, Mexico Guest Accommodations: Grand View Lodge, Nisswa Transportation: Grand View Lodge, Nisswa Real couple rating?

Services, vendors and location for a Brainerd lakes area wedding

“We had an amazing experience and overall amazing time. I wish that I could do it all over again!” - Shannon

8 8 Weddings Weddings North North || 2020 2020

DESTINATION BRAINERD

“We chose Brainerd because I have always had a love for this area and it meant so much more to me when I met Patrick and found out that his cabin is also in Nisswa, MN. We spend many many summer days there and it never gets old.”

UNIQUE DETAIL

“Instead of a ring bearer, we have one of our best family friends become “ring security.” He did an

amazing job and it was an amazing touch to a law enforcement wedding!”

BUILDING A FUTURE

“In 2019- Patrick and I got a new puppy, built a new home, planned and had a wedding and honeymoon, and have a little one due in July.“

SPONSORED CONTENT

ANY SIZE, ANY SEASON Grand View Lodge

BY BRYAN REEDER

Grand View Lodge is the perfect place to say “I do” no matter the wedding size, season, or wedding style.

PHOTO BY ANDREW VIC, VIC PHOTOGRAPHY Located just north of Brainerd in Nisswa, Grand View Lodge has consistently been awarded for their wedding services, premium accommodations, amenities, and more. In 2019 alone, Minnesota Bride Magazine recognized Grand View Lodge as “Best Outdoor Venue” and “Best Destination Venue.”

Grand View Lodge is far more than just a summer wedding destination. The northwoods resort offers a multitude of beautiful venues for your ceremony, social hour or reception, no matter the season. Make sure to check out Grand View’s new, beautiful all-season chapel right on site. Grand View Lodge offers a beautiful and unforgettable atmosphere for your Minnesota wedding that is uniquely yours.

Wedding Chapel Opening in 2018, Grand View Lodge’s newest wedding ceremony venue, the Chapel, has been very popular with wedding parties. The quaint and picturesque chapel opens to a vaulted ceiling with gorgeous stained-glass windows at its peak. The vaulted ceiling has dark planked wood that adds a fairy-tale charm.

PHOTO BY: KELLEY JO IMAGING

The quaint 1,200 square-foot chapel can accommodate up to 75 guests and is ideal for hosting ceremonies, weddings and other intimate events. Leading up to the Chapel is a beautifully manicured walkway and reception lawn, perfect for a romantic entrance or magazine-worthy wedding pictures.

Variety of Reception Venues Grand View Lodge offers a multitude of beautifully designed event spaces that can accommodate weddings of up to 400 guests.

From their elegant Gull Lake Center to the charming Heritage Room in the Historic Main Lodge, Grand View Lodge is perfect for hosting weddings from large to small.

Located in the Gull Lake Center, the 6,400 square-foot Grand Ballroom can accommodate up to 400 people. The adjacent lobby area, veranda and Centennial Lawn are perfect for a beautiful pre-reception social hour. In addition to the Chapel, Grand View offers two additional ceremony sites. Popular with weddings of any size is the Grand Staircase. The iconic stairway is located right behind the main lodge and offers magnificent lake views. Brides may descend the staircase for a breathtaking entrance.

Seating for up to 300 guests is available on the surrounding manicured lawn.

North One of Grand View Lodge’s newest accommodations is North, a 60-room boutique hotel.

The modern but cozy hotel features the latest in energy efficiency and guest comfort systems.

North offers the perfect accommodation options for wedding guests, members of the wedding party, or a romantic stay for the bride and groom. Visit North and enjoy a modern,

state-of-the-art intimate hotel with big-city amenities located right here in the northwoods.

North is conveniently located right on Grand View’s main property, within walking distance to the various wedding and reception venues, a multitude of restaurants, the award-winning Glacial Waters Spa, and all the added amenities that Grand View offers. A mix of stone and wood accents with a central fireplace in the lobby will be reminiscent of a cozy cottage but the high ceilings, large windows, pendant lighting and sleek guest rooms might make you forget your northern locale.

Something for Every Couple Grand View Lodge’s dedicated wedding team will work with couples with any budget or vision to make they’re wedding dreams become a reality. “It is essential to be transparent when it comes to your overall wedding vision and your budget. Thankfully, Grand View Lodge has several different venue options, each with its own price point,” says Becky Bohnenstingl, wedding sales manager at Grand View Lodge.

“Literally, there is something for everyone, from small, intimate parties of 20 to large, grand celebrations of 320 guests.”

Grand View Lodge strives to make your wedding dreams come true through their meticulous planning, award-winning culinary team and breathtaking grounds, venues and amenities. Call the team at Grand View Lodge to inquire about your dream wedding or schedule a tour with one of their knowledgeable planners. Host your wedding at the beautiful and iconic Grand View Lodge for a day you and your wedding guests will never forget.

2020 | Weddings North 9

REAL COUPLES

Lakeside Chic Kelly & Scott Rivers

Vendor List

SPECIAL DETAILS

“To honor the groom’s father who passed away a few years before, the groom and his two brothers had flowers from their boutonnieres put into bullet casings that were used in the 21 gun salute and were engraved with his name.”

A SPECIAL PLACE

“We have been coming to Cragun’s for a big family

Christmas gathering for years, so this resort always held a special place in our hearts.”

HORSES AROUND

“As we were taking pictures, the Cragun’s Clydesdales were out with their carriage giving rides and we were able to sneak a few pictures with them. The pictures came out amazing and it will forever be a moment we remember.”

Photographer: Anatoliy D Photography Videographer: Love Infinity Films Planner: Tammra Holman, Cragun’s Resort Venue: Cragun’s Resort on Gull Lake, Brainerd Caterer: Cragun’s Resort on Gull Lake, Brainerd Cake: Sweet Life Bakery, Pequot Lakes Floral: Lily Grass Floral Studio, Brainerd Other Decor: Dee’s Decorating, Little Falls Dress: Bella Bridal Boutique, St. Paul Suits: Savvi Formalwear DJ/Entertainment: Northern Lights Officiant: Mike Kennedy Hair & Make up: Captivating Beauty, Brainerd Rings/Jewelry: Loch Jewelers, Monticello Honeymoon: Negril, Jamaica Guest accommodations: Cragun’s Resort, Brainerd Real couple rating?

Services, vendors and location for a Brainerd lakes area wedding

“From our resort to our vendors it was perfect...Everyone that was in the area all worked together for our day and the vendors that came from out of town had no problem going up to the lakes area.” - Kelly

DESTINATION WEDDING:

“We had a lot of family fly in, from NY, FL, CO, and MA. We had our Groom’s dinner at Cragun’s as well.

It was a great spot with a patio right by the lake. Our families loved it and the staff was so accommodating.

They also started a bonfire for us by the beach.”

10 Weddings Weddings North North || 2020 2020 10

SPONSORED CONTENT

PERFECT WEDDING DESTINATION Cragun’s Resort on Gull Lake

BY SUSAN SMITH-GRIER What are the main ingredients for an enjoyable and memorable destination wedding? Beautiful surroundings, exceptional service, scrumptious food and romance, of course! You could hop on a plane and fly off to an island in the Pacific or you can have a beautiful destination wedding in central Minnesota’s vacationland. Offering accommodations year-round, Cragun’s provides everything required to make your wedding experience perfect from rehearsal dinner to the last wave goodbye to family and friends no matter what time of year.

Beautiful Surroundings Located on scenic Gull Lake, you have a choice of lakeside lodging. House your entire wedding party in one of their luxurious lodges and reserve a private cabin for you and your sweetheart after your nuptials.

There are also hotel-style rooms for guests

who prefer more downtime.

If sandy beaches are your thing, Cragun’s has a mile’s worth of them at your disposal.

Arrangements can be made for activities for young and old so everyone will return home with happy memories that can last a lifetime. Fishing, boating, water skiing, and of course swimming are all available.

Take your guests on a lake cruise aboard Gull Lake Cruises’ beautiful yacht. You can plan for a daylight or evening cruise complete with an outdoor observation deck and a luxurious indoor lounge for relaxation on the water. Sample the fine wines, indulge in signature cocktails or enjoy the domestic and premium beers served at each of two bars on board.

A Memorable Experience Wedding guests often remember specific things about that special day. Food happens to be one of them and you can

cragunsresort

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make sure you and your guests have a memorable wedding feast. The Lakeside Dining Room is one of their five restaurants and known to be one of Brainerd’s highest ranked restaurants. Enjoy the ambiance and the beautiful view of Steamboat Bay while feasting on prime rib, chicken or Minnesota’s famous walleye. Vegetarian and guests with special dietary needs are accommodated.

Your dream wedding awaits at Cragun’s on majestic Gull Lake. Their dedicated team of professionals will assist you in planning your perfect destination wedding. Contact Tammra at 218-825-2853 or visit https:// www.craguns.com/weddings/. The beginning of your perfect day is just a phone call away.

craguns.com

3 DIFFERENT VENUES ■ 80 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE ■ 1 AMAZING WEDDING

and a thousand “I love yous”

- LAKESIDE -

- ON THE WATER -

- ON THE GREEN -

2020 | Weddings North 11

REAL COUPLES

Romantic Retreat Samantha & Jacob Pedersen

TIMING IS EVERYTHING

VENDOR LIST Photographer: Kelley Jo Imaging Coordinator: Crystal Glaser Venue: Manhattan Beach Lodge, Crosslake Caterer: Manhattan’s at Manhattan Beach Lodge, Crosslake Floral: Coborn’s Cupcakes: Sweet Life Bakery, Pequot Lakes Officiant: Dynamite Reflections LLC - Karie Lynn Dress: Carrie Johnson Bridal, Waite Park Suits: Halberstadt, St. Cloud Hair: Headlines Salon, Sartell Make up: Captivating Beauty, Brainerd Guest Accommodations: Manhattan Beach Lodge & Whitefish Lodge, Crosslake Real couple rating?

Services, vendors and location for a Brainerd lakes area wedding

“It was as stress-free as can be.

All of our vendors were incredibly helpful in keeping the schedule on track and keeping our stress levels low.” - Samantha

12 Weddings North | 2020

“We were together 7 years when we got engaged, but our engagement was short (8-months). We found it very surprising to find such helpful vendors that fit what we wanted, fit our personalities so well and have it turn out so incredible.”

REASONABLE

“We wanted it to be a destination wedding but within reason, we’re familiar with the area and the northern Brainerd area is beautiful. We couldn’t think of a better wedding day.”

SIMPLE THINGS

“We are very family oriented, laid-back homebodies who enjoy the simple things.”

SPONSORED CONTENT

IMPECCABLE TASTE

Whitefish Lodge & Manhattan Beach Lodge One of the most important aspects of a wedding for guests, is the food. It’s one of the most talked about details.

BY CRYSTAL GLASER

Dazzle them with your food selections! Besides your location, the food and beverages for your celebration will probably consume the largest portion of your wedding budget. It’s well worth it when you take into consideration that your wedding dinner starts off the reception and can set the tone for the evening. You’ll want them to remember “great taste” so to speak.

When you book your special day at Whitefish Lodge or Manhattan Beach Lodge, our excellent catering company – Whitefish Catering is part of the package. Whitefish Catering has won many awards and continues to receive excellent reviews from wedding clients.

“The ceremony onsite overlooking trout lake was magical. The food was AMAZING, the chef has great skill in pairing...and presentation. Crystal is wonderful to work with and made anything we asked for happen.”

-Mrs. Chelsea Rhea, wedding at Manhattan Beach Lodge

TWO PREMIER WEDDING DESTINATIONS In Beautiful Crosslake, MN

Look no further for your wedding location! Whitefish Lodge & Manhattan Beach Lodge offer year-round endless possibilities – indoor/outdoor locations for ceremonies and socials with indoor receptions.

Only one wedding per venue, per weekend so you aren’t just another wedding…. but the only wedding!!

CONTACT US TODAY! CRYSTAL GLASER, Director of Sales and Marketing CRYSTAL@CROSSLAKERESERVATIONS.COM (218) 692-2246, EXT 412 WWW.CROSSLAKERESERVATIONS.COM

“We had our ceremony and reception at Whitefish Lodge. The best choice in venue we could have made! The venue coordinator, Crystal, was absolutely amazing; she replied to emails/phone calls almost immediately during the entire planning process. The food was incredible!! We had so many guests say they couldn’t remember the last time they had such tasty wedding food.”

-Mrs. Karie Schwenzfeier, wedding at Whitefish Lodge

2020 | Weddings North 13

SPONSORED CONTENT

DON’T SWEAT THE SET UP Party Time Rental

BY NICOLE STRACEK Party Time Rental is committed to providing extraordinary service and the best quality rental items to help make any special day go off without a hitch. Conveniently located in Brainerd, the staff at Party Time Rental is knowledgeable and truly cares about your special day just as much as you do. From delivering equipment on time to safely installing the equipment, the staff at Party Time Rental wants your event to be as stress free as possible.

Owners Brad and Lori Kohorst are honored to serve the Brainerd lakes area and truly love what they do. “We love that we have been able to grow with our community! Whether it’s assisting couples with their rental needs to host a fabulous wedding event or a small intimate celebration, we are there to assist in the details. We also love to help families with celebrations like anniversaries, family reunions or birthday parties and our corporate clients with customer appreciation days

or employee events throughout the summer.

We have found it rewarding to walk people through the steps of planning their special celebrations!” said Lori.

With a wide variety of rental equipment customers can find everything they need from tables and chairs to canopies and bounce houses. Additional rental items include lighting, dance floors, staging tableware and grills along with specialty farm tables and crossback chairs to accommodate larger events.

Because each celebration is unique on its own, Lori and Brad strive to make every event special. Couples who have a vision for their special day can count on the team at Party Time Rental to be professional, friendly and on time. “We want to make that dream come true and make sure they get to enjoy the day with family and friends knowing the setup and takedown details will be accomplished as required by the Party Time team.”

Whether you are hosting a small get

PartyTimeRentalMN.com

218-829-6300

14 Weddings North | 2020

together, an elegant wedding or a large party, you can find all of your equipment needs at Party Time Rental. Please visit the PTR website at partytimerentalmn.com or call 218-829-6300 for more information. Check out and like the Party Time Facebook page and enjoy photos of events present and past and helpful party planning tips.

SPONSORED CONTENT

TASTEFULLY KEEPING A BUDGET Cub Foods

BY GAIL CLIFFORD Are you a budget savvy bride- and groomto-be?

Planning a backyard wedding or groom’s dinner? Need to host the wedding rehearsal dinner? Is your idea of a great party throwing steaks or burgers and brats on the grill? Cub Foods has you covered.

FIRST

Meet with Cub Foods managers.

Bring your wish list and let the staff at Cub Foods in Brainerd and Baxter take the guesswork out of food costs. This hometown grocery store offers a variety of prepared and ready to grill options. Feel like having fried chicken or meat and cheese trays instead?

The deli stands ready.

Choose your protein, side dishes, drinks and

snacks.

Cub can provide chilled pop, ice for the mixers and snacks to tempt your guests.

Not only that, Cub has been expanding the organic and specialty foods to support the Go Green movement and can help reduce the carbon footprint of your event.

SECOND

Meet with the floral manager.

“Meet with our floral managers in advance to the special day. We can make arrangements, bouquets for the bride and attendants along with boutonnieres,” says Bryan Jelinski, Brainerd Cub store director.

THIRD

Meet with the bakery manager.

Are you interested in a personalized wedding cake or specialty cupcakes? The

t o G e v ’ e W

bakery department offers sheet cakes that will satisfy your guests’ sweet tooths while serving many. And they’re budget friendly. A full sheet cake feeds 96 people. A half sheet cake feeds 48.

They’re locally owned and operated and Lakes Proud. The Quisberg family has been here since 1985. Community support provides the backbone to the business and keeps them growing strong.

“We provide a clean, comfortable grocery store with the largest selection of products and services in the Brainerd lakes area,” says Jelinski.

With a 35-year commitment to the Baxter/ Brainerd area, Cub Foods is here to meet your needs on your big day. It’s a great option for the budget savvy bride and groom.

! d e r e v o C u Yo  WEDDING CAKE  FLOWERS  CATERING — OPEN 24 HOURS —

Baxter- (218)828-4601 • Brainerd- (218)828-1816

2020 | Weddings North 15

Cole and Katie Sabe— Katie says she cannot begin to fathom what her wedding would have been like if she hadn’t hired a wedding planner.

PHOTO BY AIMEE JOBE

Hiring A Wedding P l a n n e r The second best decision of your wedding day

BY SHEILA HELMBERGER

You’ve probably been thinking about your wedding day for a long time. You know where you’d like your ceremony and reception to be held and you’ve found the perfect dress. Alterations are scheduled and now it’s on to the rest of the planning. What will you serve your guests at the reception? Who will take the photographs? How do you decorate? What types of flowers will you use in your bouquets?

You could decide to do all of the work yourself or you could enlist the help of a wedding planner.

Hannah Dewitt says when she married her husband, Shawn, she didn’t plan on hiring anyone to help. “At first I was somewhat skeptical about hiring a wedding coordinator. I thought I would be able to do everything myself with my family and friends’ help.” She hired Kate Kuepers from Bloom Designs to help and was glad she did.

You might attend dozens of weddings but there is so much to think about and consider when you are planning

16 Weddings North | 2020

your own. A wedding planner or event coordinator can take a lot of the details, both large and small, out of your hands and give you more time to sit back and enjoy the wedding.

The day of the wedding the bride and groom were able to relax while their day came together. “We did not have to worry about anything because the planning crew was setting everything up for us,” says Dewitt, “The morning was spent with my bridesmaids and Shawn with

his groomsmen just laughing and drinking champagne.”

“In the end we would absolutely recommend having a wedding coordinator,” says Dewitt. “I am happy that I can I remember just having fun and feeling so much love and joy on my wedding day instead of feeling like I missed out because I had to tell people where to put the desserts or where to put the table numbers on each table.”

Hiring a wedding planner may sound like an unneeded

Kate Kuepers (left) of Bloom Designs impresses brides as a wedding planner just as much as her wedding decor dazzles them.

“I remember my breath being absolutely taken away the first time I saw my reception space. Not a single detail was forgotten, some were even added as surprises.”- Katie Sabe expense, but when you consider the help they can offer it may be a worthwhile investment. Some of their suggestions may save you money in the long run.

Katie Sabe also used Bloom Designs for her wedding and says the decision helped keep costs in check. “One of the most appreciated aspects of using Kate’s services was how she kept my budget in mind.

The last thing I wanted to stress over while planning my wedding was added expenses and going over my budget. She was transparent the whole way through with what things cost and she helped keep me on track, also suggesting “other” or “similar” options to certain things that may have been out of my price range.”

Sabe adds that using a wedding planner brought her dream to life. “I remember my breath being absolutely taken away the first time I saw my reception space. The sketches I had given her of how I imagined things were right in front of me. Not a single detail was forgotten, some were even added as surprises.”

“When my husband and I got engaged, I planned on doing everything myself,” says Sabe. “Looking back, I cannot even begin to fathom what my wedding planning experience would have been like had I not used a wedding planner.”

The venue you choose for your reception may have an events coordinator or other staff member who works with wedding couples to handle the details of the day. Chances are they will think of lots of things you haven’t.

Amanda and Joe Westlake

were married at Breezy Point Resort. The help they received from Brandi Hitchler at the resort was invaluable. “She helped with all of the details at the venue and would give me her honest opinion about some of the decisions I was making to help make my experience more enjoyable.

From the details at the reception venue, ceremony site and even spots for good wedding photos, she helped with all of it,” says Westlake.

PHOTO BY AIMEE JOBE

Brandi Hitchler, Breezy Point Resort Wedding Coordinator, creates a relaxing atmosphere for couples by handling all the details.

PHOTO BY KATHY BITTNER LEE

Amanda and Joe Westlake — Amanda says Brandi Hitchler at Breezy Point Resort made sure she didn’t have to handle anything on her wedding day.

PHOTO BY SANDRA WICKLUND

“She made sure I didn’t have to handle anything on my wedding day,” says Westlake of Hitchler at Breezy Point Resort.

“She was available by phone the whole day and helped me with last minute details even the day of.”

Whether you hire a planner or use a venue with a coordinator, chances are you’ll be doing yourselves a huge favor. Your family and friends will thank you too as they sit back and celebrate more as wedding guests and less as wedding helpers.

2020| |Weddings WeddingsNorth North 1717 2020

WEDDING

CAKES AND

Cupcakes

20 First Dance Wedding Song Ideas Some are new, some are classics.

The Icing On Your Perfect Day!

From traditional to trendy and every inspiration in between. There’s no order too tall or too small!

35561 CR 3 CROSSLAKE

(218) 692-2711 • EXT.1 Bakery@ReedsMarket.com (email) See our photos on Facebook

18 Weddings North | 2020

1. “Beautiful Crazy” – Luke Combs 2. “Perfect” – Ed Sheeran + Andrea Bocelli 3. “You Are The Best Thing” – Ray LaMontagne 4. “Greatest Love Story” – Lanco 5. “At Last” – Etta James 6. “When You Say Nothing At All” – Alison Krauss 7. “Faithfully” – Journey 8. “All of Me” – John Legend 9. “Adore You” - Harry Styles 10. “Conversations in the Dark” - John Legend 11. “10,000 Hours” - Dan + Shay, Justin Bieber 12. “A Whole New World”- From “Aladdin” ZAYN, Zhavia Ward 13. “Living Proof ” - Camilla Cabello 14. “If I Can’t Have You”- Shawn Mendes 15. “Lover” - Taylor Swift 16. “Love Is Still The Answer” - Jason Mraz 17. “Love Her” - Jonas Brothers 18. “Thinking Out Loud - Ed Sheeran 19. “The Way You Look Tonight” - Frank Sinatra 20. “Unchained Melody”- The Righteous Brothers

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Gorgeous Wedding Scenery Northland Arboretum

BY JENNY HOLMES From engagement photos to the wedding day, the Northland Arboretum in Brainerd/Baxter is one of the most beautiful places throughout the Brainerd lakes area to set the scene.

Named first place for best local wedding venue, the Arboretum boasts more than 500 acres of immaculate green space where couples can choose an indoor or outdoor location to say “I do.”

The Arboretum offers gazebo gardens with adequate space for guests. Those worried about inclement weather can choose to take advantage of the covered patio or deck space, allowing for an outdoor wedding in a guaranteed rain-free setting.

Highlights include: ∙ Lower level with covered patio & upper level with covered deck. ∙ Edison party lights inside and out ∙ Picture-perfect fireplace on the upper level ∙ Newly painted ceilings in lower level ∙ Remodeled kitchen facilities ∙ White chair covers and linens available for rental ∙ Sound system and bar available

The Northland Arboretum provided a pictureperfect backdrop for Monique and Jeff’s big day.

“We would get married at the Arboretum all over again,” they said. “The staff was beyond friendly and accommodating, and the grounds are breathtakingly beautiful. It was a wedding of our dreams. Our friends and family cannot stop talking about how wonderful the day was for everyone.”

Rain, shine, anytime... Considering a winter wedding?

The snow cover adds a gorgeous element to that big day, whether indoors or out.

Dance the night away in the Arboretum’s lower level reception area. Built to accommodate 170 guests, you’ll have access to a full kitchen, dance floor, adjoining patio with picnic tables, projector and screen, computer hook up and wireless internet.

Looking for a smaller, more intimate space?

The Arboretum’s upper level Fireside room seats approximately 64; and also offers a full kitchen with dishwasher, adjoining deck with picnic tables, gas fireplace, projector with screen, computer hookup and audio capabilities and wireless internet.

When it comes to the menu, the Arboretum makes it easy for couples and their families by allowing food either brought from home or catered meals. The choice is yours, making it affordable for any budget.

There’s ample parking for guests, and Arboretum staff works with couples throughout the planning process to ensure the day is as perfect as you have always dreamed.

For pricing information and additional details, visit northlandarb.org.

Best Day Ever!

The possibilities are endless!

Voted “Best Wedding/Party Venue” in 2018

218-829-8770 | info@northlandarb.org northlandarb.org | 14250 Conservation Dr, Brainerd 2020 | Weddings North 19

REAL COUPLES

Delightfully Danish Kayla & Matthew Jorgensen

Vendor List Photographer: Megan Tetzloff Photography Venue: Pine Peaks Wedding & Event Center, Crosslake Caterer: Maucieri’s, Crosslake Cake: Kransekage (a traditional Danish wedding cake), made by Matt’s dad and sister.

Floral: Kayla’s mom, Wanda Sis Other Decor: Beer growlers design created by bride’s cousin Rachel Kosak.

Dress: The Wedding Shoppe, St. Paul Suits: Studio Suits DJ/Entertainment: Spotify playlist on Pine Peaks equipment Officiant: Marty Jorgensen (Groom’s sister) Hair: Haley Dunlap, Lake Luxe Beauty, Crosslake Make up: Catharine Funk, Encompassing Beauty, Crosslake Honeymoon: South Africa Guest accommodations: On-site retreat house, a VRBO cabin as well as rooms at Pine Peaks Lodge and Manhattan Beach Lodge, Crosslake.

Transportation: Bob’s Shuttle Service, Crosslake Real couple rating?

Services, vendors and location for a Brainerd lakes area wedding

20 20 Weddings Weddings North North || 2020 2020

ABOUT THE COUPLE:

“We have been together for nearly 7 years and have a 3 year old poodle named Rudy. We love being outdoors whether it is camping, canoeing, or simply reading in the hammock.”

WINTER WONDERLAND

“The biggest surprise was the snowstorm. I think I read that the totals were 16 inches. Dave, Julie and Cory at Pine Peaks were shoveling non-stop to

make sure our guests could come and go safely. Even our photographer’s husband pitched in.”

WHY CROSSLAKE?

“We loved the idea of being able to have our immediate families spend a few days together rather than a big rush for a single day.

Being able to get out of the city and enjoy the quiet and the natural beauty was just what we needed. We liked the small-town feel of Crosslake.”

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Your Furry Friend is Welcome

PHOTO SUBMITTED BY PINE PEAKS WEDDING AND EVENT CENTER

WEDDING GETAWAY FOR ALL—

Pine Peaks encourages you to bring your pet dog knowing how important your furry friend can be in your lives.

Pine Peaks has had numerous wedding ceremonies with the couples dog available for family photos as well as being the ring bearer. Your little buddy can be at your side during one of the most joyful, but stressful times of your lives and join in the celebration. Bring your dog’s kennel, favorite leash and your favorite pooper scooper and you will be all set for your wedding weekend. Be sure to take many photos together..

Including the Family Pet

Pine Peaks Wedding And Event Center

BY SHEILA HELMBERGER

MEGAN TETZLOFF PHOTOGRAPHY

What if you could spend your entire wedding weekPHOTO SUBMITTED BY PINE PEAKS end celebrating with your friends and family at a beautiWEDDING AND EVENT CENTER ful, private, 80-acre gated estate? With Pine Peaks Wedding and Event Center near Crosslake, owner Dave Peterson and his wife, Julie, have created a wedding resort that offers a true destination wedding. Secluded, away from everything, they make it possible to wake up the morning of your vows and have a cup of coffee and relax instead of running around from place to place picking up items you’ve rented.

The Property Dave gives each couple an extensive tour of the property when they meet – and there’s a lot to see. The property, owned by four generations of Petersons, offers a view from every deck and porch of serene beauty. It’s a photographer’s dream of rolling hills, corn fields and flowers. Several sites for the ceremony include your choice of arbors and each is surrounded by wildflower and perennial gardens.

There is a bubbling rock and a pond with a fountain in the spring through warm fall months.

The seasons in lake country can change quickly, sometimes overnight. Raising or lowering tent walls and utilizing heaters or fans, you can create your ideal temperature and make the atmosphere as cozy or as open as you’d like.

The Big Day Pine Peaks Wedding and Event

Center partners with Maucieri’s Restaurant in Crosslake for catering services. The wedding couple and staff will work together to create the reception menu.

“We allow customers to bring their own desserts and snacks for their reception,” says Dave. Parking spaces are available for many motorhomes with power, sewer and water hookups. Delivery, setup and removal for RV rentals can be arranged.

The Retreat House “Just about every couple uses our retreat house,” says Dave. Across a pathway from the event center is a 5,000-square foot home with five bedrooms, four bathrooms and a loft with four more beds. “Typically, the wedding party and a few friends will stay here and have a nice time together for several days.” The master suite includes a Jacuzzi and a seethrough fireplace. Also on site? A

two-chair hair and makeup salon, a pool table, and laundry facilities.

The home features a gourmet kitchen, screened porch, pool table, games, an outdoor sauna and a propane fire pit.

Dave and Julie know your wedding is more than just one really big day.

It’s a weekend affair and the house is available to rent to couples from Thursday until Monday. A block of up to 28 rooms is available from Pine Peaks Lodge and Suites in Crosslake with shuttle service available to and from the reception.

Extras After rehearsal, just move your wedding party into a space in the pavilion and have your groom’s dinner right there. Wood-fire pizzas can be made, or you can DIY grill burgers or steaks for the wedding party, offering a nice laid-back evening before the big day.

There’s no doubt Pine Peaks offers

a few extras that other places can’t.

Dave has two tractors that can be used for some fun photos and then to take a celebratory hayride.

“We’ve had over 340 weddings and no two have been the same,” he says.

Nearly 50 weddings are already booked for 2020. We are now booking into 2021 and 2022. Unlike many venues we provide all liability insurances and a $25,000 Wed-Safe Wedding Cancellation Policy to keep your investment safe. Call 612-9866800 for more information and to set up a tour.

Pine Peaks Wedding and Event Center, with a capacity of around 300, has been the recipient of awards from The Knot and Wedding Wire as well as Best Wedding Venue in 2015 from Minneapolis St. Paul Magazine.

The Brainerd Dispatch and Pine Peaks Wedding and Event Center contributed to this content.

2020 | Weddings North 21

Get Your Whole Body Wedding-ready y spa da a e k Ma t for n e m t n appoi d my me an ids! ma brides

With all the decisions and stress many brides experience, it’s no wonder they might forget to take care of themselves and their bodies.

Here are some popular items you won’t want to forget.

Glow Many brides-to-be want a sunkissed glow minus the harsh UV rays. Selftanners and salon spray tanning are great options. TIPS: Remove unwanted hair ahead of time and exfoliate the skin to avoid a patchy look.

A friend may recommend a great product, but individual skin types react differently and results may vary Experiment on yourself weeks or even months before the wedding to get the look you want.

Highlight/Color If you are considering a change to your hair color make sure you do it well in advance. You might want to test the shade against your wedding colors and your dress. If you love the results, make an appointment right away for a root touch-up.

* photo by Aimee Jobs/Flowers by Kate Kuepers

We rent tents, tables, chairs, dance floors and much more!

Balloon decor and retail decorating options also available!

15867 Edgewood Drive Baxter, MN 56425 • 218-828-2127 • 877-328-2127

www.partyworldbrainerd.com 22 22 Weddings Weddings North North || 2020 2020

Tone Both brides and grooms are expressing wishes to be more toned and fit for their big day. Adding more fitness into your life is always a positive thing, but avoid hype diets and “less than sound” fitness advice. Many gyms staff personal trainers that can help work on specific goals.

a Pick out the it for swimsu oon! honeym xoxox

Destress Take time for yourself to just breathe and quiet your mind. Yoga and meditation can help —so can a good old fashioned bubble bath with fizzy and fragrant bath bombs.

Smooth lines With so much going on during your wedding preparation, simple upkeep can become overwhelming tasks. Some brides are opting for longer lasting solutions like laser hair removal, laser liposuction, filler injections and cosmetic surgery. Some services are spendy, but may be worth the investment over time. Whatever you decide, be sure you do your research and go to someone reputable.

s rocerie g p u k Pic tonight

Brighten There are many over the counter options to try, but if you plan on using a dental industry-grade whitening system, make an appointment with your dentist early (about 3-6 weeks). Generally, it’s not a quick service. There’s an initial appointment to get a custom cast of your mouth to create trays from. It can take a couple weeks to get the trays

back to you. Many say they see results after just one application, but others saw results after a week depending on the brand.

“This is why I am a photographer, because there is so much more to each story than you realize, and I love discovering those things.”

Kelley Asbury | 320-232-3325 | kelleyjoimaging.com | kelleyjo@kelleyjoimaging.com

2020 2020 || Weddings Weddings North North 23 23

REAL COUPLES

Natural Harmony Rebekah & Christian Olsen

Photographer: Rachel, Lovely Day Fleur Venue: The Barn at Stoney Hills, Cushing Food and cake: Family and friends Officiant: Mandy Brandt Rings/Jewelry: Wedding Day Diamonds Dress: Classy Consignments, Anoka Suits: Men’s Warehouse Floral: Costco (baby’s breath), Garland Guy (eucalyptus), Findlavender on Amazon (lavender), Mimosafloralcompany on Etsy (flower crown) Honeymoon: Colorado road trip Real couple rating?

Services, vendors and location for a Brainerd lakes area wedding

WEDDING FOCUS

“It was important for me to really dissect wedding traditions and figure out what my husband and I wanted out of our special day. For us, that was a day of gathering and celebrating our union with those closest to us. It was a magical day in the lakes area surrounded by the

beauty of nature...This helped keep our focus and our budget.”

families use at nearly every family gathering.”

UNIQUE DETAILS

FUN TWIST

“I love lavender and we had lavender cupcakes and even made a lavender cocktail.

Since we made our own food/ menu we incorporated traditional items that both of our

“On our invitations we asked each of our guests to pick a song they would dance to and then we composed a list of our favorite dance music on Spotify and played it during the reception.”

DESTINATION WEDDING:

24 Weddings North | 2020 24 Weddings North | 2019 2020

“We had a lot of family fly in, from NY, FL, CO, and MA. We had our Groom’s dinner at Cragun’s as well.

It was a great spot with a patio right by the lake. Our families loved it and the staff was so accommodating.

They also started a bonfire for us by the beach.”

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IMAGINE THE POSSIBILITIES Crow Wing County Fairgrounds

BY SUSAN SMITH-GRIER Choosing the county fairgrounds for your wedding venue opens up an unlimited choice of themes for your special day. You can let your creativity fly with the possibilities. With wide open spaces, room for up to 800 guests and indoor and outdoor venues, you get to create the perfect world for your special day.

Pulling your wedding together does not need to be a headache. They have a list of preferred vendors who can provide you and your wedding guests with everything you need to make your time at the fairgrounds spectacular. From food, to horse and buggy carriage to hayrides for

the kids, your wedding day can be made as simple or as elaborate as you choose.

Only minutes away from downtown Brainerd, the Crow Wing County Fairgrounds offers plenty of parking for your guests. They have a choice of staying at one of the nearby hotels or for the more adventurous camping onsite is an option.

They provide overnight tent and RV spaces with electrical hookups.

Whether you imagine a small, intimate gathering with only family and friends or a grand Renaissance themed affair where the bride arrives in horse-drawn carriage with hundreds of guests to greet the happy

couple, the Crow Wing County Fairgrounds can accommodate your wishes.

For an indoor wedding, many couples find the Curling Club building a favorite out of the many available.

You can hold your ceremony here or use the space for a formal dinner. This building also makes a great area for dancing. Decorate inside and out to achieve the ideal look.

Getting married is a very special event and you can make your day as unique and singular as you are when you choose the fairgrounds as your wedding spot.

Call Gary Doucette, manager, for more information at 218-839-0270. Make your reservation today.

Want your event to be unique?

The Possibilities are Endless!

From Groomsmen Dinner to Wedding, to Reception, to Dance, into next day Brunch and Gift Opening we have the room to accommodate 800 guests and 40 acres of area to play and camp.

Call the Crow Wing County Fairgrounds at 218-829-6680 for more information or to reserve a date for your event.

Crow Wing County Fairgrounds PO Box 169, Brainerd, MN 56401 www.crowwingcountyfair.com

2020 | Weddings North 25

REAL COUPLES

Wedding Breeze Amanda & Joe Westlake Real couple rating?

Services, vendors and location for a Brainerd lakes area wedding

INSEPARABLE

“It was love at first site when we met in college through mutual friends. We were inseparable from the beginning... We started building our life together after college in Grand Rapids and have rooted ourselves now in Coleraine, Minn., (Joe’s hometown). This fall we will have been together for 10 years!!”

26 Weddings North | 2020 26 Weddings North | 2020

DINNER ON A BOAT

“It was such a unique experience.

We got to spend a relaxing evening the night before the wedding day out on the lake with all of our loved ones. They served our food to us on the boat and had a bar on board. It was so much fun!”

MADE BY THE GROOM

“...[Joe] made the wooden arbor we stood under during the ceremony. It was perfect and just what I had envisioned. He also made a wooden card box for the reception that he engraved our wedding date and names on.”

Vendor List Photographer: Sandra Wicklund, Wicklund Productions LLC, Grand Rapids Venue Coordinator: Brandi Hitchler, Breezy Point Resort Venue: Breezy Point Resort Caterer: Breezy Point Resort Cupcakes: Sweet Amelia’s Cupcakes, Grand Rapids Floral and Decor: Four Seasons Market, Flowers by Ann Bridal Gown and Suits: The Wedding Parlour, Grand Rapids Bridesmaid Dresses: Azazie.com DJ/Entertainment: Wicklund Productions LLC, Grand Rapids Officiant: Duane Geisler Hair & Make-up: Captivating Beauty, Brainerd Rings/Jewelry: Bride-Zales, Groom-Mississippi Diamond Guest accommodations: Breezy Point Resort Transportation: Guest shuttle services, Breezy Point Resort

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Treat Yourself to an Easy Breezy Wedding Breezy Point Resort

What’s at s your

dream

wedding? wed

BY SHEILA HELMBERGER Give your day the feel of a destination wedding without the need for airline tickets or a passport when you have your ceremony at Breezy Point Resort on the shores of picturesque Pelican Lake.

For outdoor ceremonies, the resort can offer a beautiful lakeside space or a more intimate area for your vows at the pavilion at Antler’s Restaurant.

Known for its accommodating staff and eye-catching location the resort is highly acclaimed on the Wedding Wire and on The Knot. “We can help with everything from the bachelor and bachelorette parties to the groom’s dinner, rehearsal, reception and gift opening,” says Bonnie Stroinski, director of marketing and group services.

Whether your guest list includes 20 people, or more than 400, Breezy Point Resort can help create the atmosphere you desire.

“The staff was so accommodating and helpful and we couldn’t have asked for a more perfect and memorable weekend!

We can’t wait to take our family back to visit.” - Amanda Westlake, 2019 bride

For a more intimate affair with a guest list of 100 or less, host your one-of-a-kind ceremony or reception aboard the resort’s famous Breezy Belle Paddleboat.

“We have two staff members that will work with a couple from beginning to end to help create the wedding day they’ve always imagined,” says Stroinski. Three ballrooms are available to choose from for the reception and dance, including the beautiful new Lakeside Ballroom. The bridal couple receives a complimentary suite at the resort for the weekend.

Breezy Point Resort’s celebrated Serenity Spa is the perfect place for a day of pampering to treat yourself and your wedding party to manicures, pedicures, massages or facial treatments.

When they come to celebrate your big day, wedding guests will enjoy a variety of lodging options and endless possibilities for entertainment during the weekend, including golf or fishing. Breezy Point Resort offers a destination wedding experience and a whole lot more.

Start your history together in the heart of Minnesota’s lake country. Breezy Point Resort provides the perfect setting for friends and family to gather and celebrate and offers ceremony and reception venues for groups from 20 to 450 guests. Choose from a wide variety of lodging and dining options, as well as a long list of recreational and entertainment options, including the Serenity Spa.

800.432.3777

|

b re e z y p o i nt re s o r t . co m

2020 | Weddings North 27

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YOUR FINAL BILL— MADE SIMPLE Timberlake Hotel and Timbers Event Center

BY NICOLE STRACEK

budgets are priorities for couples who are He popped the question; you said yes. planning a wedding. “Our staff is ready to Next comes planning the wedding of your make your special day just that — special. dreams. Planning a wedding can be stress- Couples who choose Timberlake Hotel and ful and often becomes a daunting task. Timbers Event Center for their big day are From booking a venue to caterers to keeping provided a dedicated wedding event cotrack of all the details, the planning process ordinator who takes care of all the details, can easily become overwhelming for newly both big and small,” said Eric. In addition to the onsite event coordinator, wedding engaged couples. packages include a comBefore the stress “We provide one low price to plimentary bridal suite, sets in, let the ivory floor length table team at Timbercover the entire event...” linens, napkins and skirtlake Hotel and ing. Couples can choose Timbers Event - Eric Neznik, sales and event coordinator from a large menu or Center in Staples customize their menu help you plan the wedding of your dreams. choices prepared by a culinary team that Timberlake Hotel and Timbers Event Censpecializes in gourmet cuisine. ter is an all-inclusive wedding venue that “Unlike other wedding and event venues, includes a dedicated wedding event coordinator. Eric Neznik, sales and event coor- Timberlake Hotel and Timbers Event Cendinator at Timberlake Hotel and Timbers ter offers inclusive pricing opposed to an a Event Center, understands that details and la carte model. That means we provide one low price to cover the entire event instead

of assessing individual charges for items like chairs, linens and tables. Our clients enjoy that transparency and ease of planning their wedding with us,” shared Eric.

Situated just off of Highway 10 in Staples, the Timberlake Restaurant and Timbers Event Center can accommodate up to 250 guests and includes a dance floor, professional wait staff, and state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment. The hotel offers 52 unique and beautifully furnished guest rooms to ensure both wedding guests and couples can find everything they need in one location. Room blocks include a complimentary breakfast in the café and hotel rooms provide a relaxing restful experience while overlooking beautiful Central Minnesota. Visit the Timberlake Hotel and Timbers Event Center website at: https://www. timberlakehotel.com/ or call 218-895-1300 for more information on planning your dream wedding.

DeDicateD On-site WeDDing cOOrDinatOr  cOmplimentary spa suite fOr BriDe & grOOm  friDay WeDDing package special

STAPLES, MN

218.895.1300

www.timberlakehotel.com 28 Weddings North | 2020

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Wedding Dessert is a Piece of Cake...and More Knotty Pine Bakery

BY SHEILA HELMBERGER

The dessert table will be one of the most popular spots at your wedding. Now, more than ever, it’s another place to put your personal stamp on the day.

Knotty Pine Bakery in downtown Brainerd specializes in creating homemade baked goods with fresh and locally sourced ingredients to help make your special day extra sweet. Whether you’re looking for a beautiful cake for your wedding table, or delicious treats for your dessert table, Knotty Pine Bakery can work with you to create a dessert menu that is as memorable as it is tasty.

Owner and baker Marie Kirsch encourages couples to stop into their downtown Brainerd location to check out their offerings, or better yet, to set up a tasting and consultation to sample flavors and gather inspiration.

“..we will work with couples to customize what they’re looking for.”

- Marie Kirsch, owner and baker “From bite-sized tartlets to pies on a stick to cake pops or cupcakes, we will work with couples to customize what they’re looking for,” said Kirsch. “We love to create something that you wouldn’t normally find and to incorporate local flavors to make something that is truly unique.”

If you’re looking for a space to host your upcoming shower or other special event for family and friends, Knotty Pine Bakery’s party room is available to rent and accom-

modates up to 20 people. Private cookie and cupcake decorating classes are also available on-site to help create a fun and memorable experience for you and your guests.

To learn more about Knotty Pine Bakery and how they can help with your wedding plans, check them out on Facebook, visit their website at knottypinebakery.com, call 218-454-2470, or stop by their downtown location at 707 Laurel Street in Brainerd.

SIMPLE. ELEGANT. UNIQUE. Beautiful and delicious wedding cakes and bakery items to make your dessert table special. Handmade with locally sourced and seasonal ingredients.

BRAINERD DESTINATION

DOWNTOWN

2018 WINNER

707 Laurel Street, Brainerd, MN • 218.454.2470 • knottypinebakery.com

2020 | Weddings North 29

REAL COUPLES

Woodsy Celtic Gathering

Alexandra & Joe Fisher Vendor List Photographer: ADOR Photography Venue: The Woods/Gather on 3, Brainerd Cake: Sweet Life Bakery, Pequot Lakes Wedding Attire: The Wedding Shoppe Hair & Make up: Bliss Salon, Pequot Lakes Real couple rating?

Services, vendors and location for a Brainerd lakes area wedding

MEMORABLE MOMENT:

Alexandra: “His vows blew me away. They were gorgeous, poetic and even hid some subtle inside jokes that no one else would have caught. I knew they’d be beautiful but I wasn’t expecting them to be that amazing.”

Joe: “I wasn’t expecting it to be so fun... I thought they were all supposed to be stuffy and boring and uptight. It was actually a lot of fun!”

UNIQUE DETAIL

“We did a traditional Celtic hand fasting in our ceremony. It worked well with a prayer that my father found that was traditionally read by the father of the bride that was translated from Gaelic.”

BIGGEST WEDDING TIP:

Alexandra: “Don’t forget to stop and take everything in that day.

Everything flies by!”

DESTINATION WEDDING: “We had a lot of family fly in, from NY, FL, CO, and MA. We had our Groom’s dinner at Cragun’s as well.

It was a great spot with a patio right by the lake. Our families loved it and the staff was so accommodating.

They also started a bonfire for us by the beach.”

30 30 Weddings Weddings North North || 2020 2020

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Wedding Couples Can Now Gather on 3 The Woods / Gather on 3 / b.merri

BY ANTJE ANDERSON Perfectly nestled deep in the woods just north of Brainerd’s city center lies an event complex unlike anywhere else in the area.

Formerly known as The Woods Banquet and Event Center, Gather on 3 is the product of two creative and local powerhouses who are ready to change up the local event scene.

Having undergone a major remodel, Gather on 3 is the perfect combination of timeless design with rustic Minnesotan roots.

With nature and wildlife abundant and native Minnesotan flowers blooming from late spring to late fall, the ambiance at the outdoor ceremony site features a large gazebo unlike anywhere else. The large indoor event space is able to accommodate up to 300 guests and has been completely remodeled featuring a clean look. The event space now has a dreamy onsite bridal suite which has been perfectly designed to fit everyone’s style.

The event space isn’t the only thing that has been completely remodeled and redesigned. The Woods Restaurant, now driven by Matt Annand, has a delicious and creative new menu. Matt is well known for his talent and passion, never sacrificing quality for creativity and it shows in

his work. Starting this spring, The Woods will be called b.merri as an homage to its location with the b representing Brainerd and merri representing Merrifield. No event is complete without great food contact Gather on 3 for all your catering needs. Your event is sure to be top notch.

Gather on 3 has the ability to host a variety of events: baby showers, weddings, business meetings, reunions and even fundraisers. y Visit the website or you can reach out to either PJ or Becky at 218-822-4330 or email eventcoordinator@thewoodsmn.com to learn more.

Keep an eye out for the upcoming events soon to be hosted at Gather on 3 and B. Merri. They will be offering a variety of cooking and wine pairing classes, musical events and much more.

Love. Gather. b.merri.

All In One Location • • • • •

Event Center Ceremony Site Lodging Executive Chef In House Shuttle Services

Come Check Out Our NEWLY REMODELED Event Center and Banquet Hall!

19624 County Road 3 • Brainerd, MN 218-829-7507 www.gatheron3.com • www.thewoodsmn.com 2020 | Weddings North 31

REAL COUPLES

Little Bit Country Mercedes & Phillip Schillaci

Real couple rating?

Services, vendors and location for a Brainerd lakes area wedding

FROM THE START

“We met at Kilworry Resort as children. It’s where our love story began as an early couple and it’s where we were able to become one as husband and wife!”

of socks. I completely forgot to have them delivered to him due to bride brain. He wasn’t able to open his gift until we were back at our cabin after the reception late that evening.”

BRIDE BRAIN

A DREAM COME TRUE

“I had written Phillip my own personal vows and planned to surprise him with them before the ceremony, along with a new pair

32 32 Weddings Weddings North North || 2020 2020

“I would definitely say our experience was exceptional, if not beyond! ADOR Photography was outstanding! They were able to

capture our day perfectly! Butts and Buns BBQ was so tasty, not a single bad review from any of our guests. And I wouldn’t have been able to make it through the day without our DJ, Nick Makowsky from Electrifying Dynamics. Not only was he our DJ but also acted as my personal assistant throughout the day.”

Vendor List Photographer: ADOR Photography Venue: Kilworry Resort, Pine River Caterer: Butts & Buns BBQ, Hackensack Cake: Pine River Bakery Bridal Gown: David’s Bridal Suits: Men’s Warehouse Officiant: Groom’s uncle DJ/Entertainment: Electrifying Dynamics, Brainerd/Pequot Lakes Hair & Make-up: Angel Martin, Bells and Blossom, Brainerd Rings/Jewelry: Bride-Zales, Groom-Barrel Band Guest accommodations: Kilworry Resort, Pine River Honeymoon: Negril, Jamaica

SPONSORED CONTENT

The Wedding of Your Dreams Arrowwood Lodge

BY NICOLE STRACEK Create your dream wedding at Arrowwood Lodge in the beautiful Brainerd lakes area.

The staff at Arrowwood Lodge is ready to help make your special day unique and exactly how you want it. Director of Sales Karolyn McCarte has helped many couples have the wedding of their dreams and continues to love what she does. “I love that we have such a fantastic wedding venue for our clients. With hotel rooms and suites so large we call them cabins, rehearsal dinner spaces, ceremonies in the courtyard under the pergola or by the cozy indoor fireplaces and a reception space that accommodates up to 280 guests to dine and dance the night away, it’s a pleasure knowing that we play a special part in helping every couple throw the wedding of their dreams at Arrowwood Lodge.”

Lindsey MacLaughlin is the catering sales manager and her main goal is to help make

“

I take care of every detail. It’s my goal to assure our couples that every single item is in place and ready for their big day.

”

- Lindsey MacLaughlin , Arrowwood catering sales manager your wedding day shine. “I take care of every detail. It’s my goal to assure our couples that every single item is in place and ready for their big day. I love my job and I love helping couples throw the wedding of their dreams!” In addition to the venue, Arrowwood Lodge provides table linens, centerpieces, food and so much more. Brides can also bring their own décor.

As the big day approaches you can count on the staff at Arrowwood Lodge to ensure everything is in place and ready for you and your bridal party. Arrowwood Lodge offers separate rooms to get ready in before the ceremony with a Mr. & Mrs. Packages that include mimosas or Bloody Marys and food for the bridal party. With budget in mind, Arrowwood Lodge knows everyone is looking for a great deal. If a winter wedding is on the horizon, Arrowwood Lodge offers specials that run from January through May and November dates with up to 50 percent off room rentals and food and beverage minimums.

For more information about weddings at Arrowwood Lodge, contact MacLaughlin at 218-822-5573 or email catering@arrowwoodbrainerd.com.

2020 | Weddings North 33

SPONSORED CONTENT

The Perfect Wedding Venue Secret Nisswa Community Event Center

BY CARISSA ANDREWS When couples dream of their wedding day, they often think of the beautiful Nisswa area as one of their top wedding destinations. For good reason, too. Nisswa was recently named the “Best Small Town in Minnesota.” While residents and tourists love this unique town for its restaurants and shopping area, Nisswa also holds a secret nestled in the woods just beyond downtown. It hosts a versatile venue for your next wedding.

Whether you want a magical indoor wedding or an enchanting outdoor one, the Nisswa Community Event Center boasts the ability to provide both. Located in the city park, the Event Center is spacious, with high ceilings, big windows to let in plenty of natural light. You can easily add a touch of elegance by making the space your own with tulle draping, twinkle lights, floral arrangements or anything else your

imagination can dream up. Other amenities include a wooden dance floor, Wi-Fi, sound system, complete with a microphone and large televisions available for any slideshows or other media needs.

If an outdoor wedding is more your style, then steps from the event center is the beautifully wooded city park. Stage your big day in one of the three park pavilions or one of the larger spaces in the park itself. Why not have the wedding outside and move into the event center for a night of dancing

Up North Elegance For Any Budget

Nisswa Community Event Center | 218-963-4444

22x40 dance floor | 299 occ. cap. | smoke-free bar rental | kitchen | tables and chairs all included | clean-up available https://www.cityofnisswa.com/departments/community_center/index.php

34 Weddings North | 2020

and celebration? For a twist, you could even host your wedding indoors and reception outdoors. The sky’s the limit. Guests with kids will also love the fact that they can entertain the kiddos by taking advantage of the big playground.

If your wedding or reception will have 300 guests or less, it just may be the perfect location for your big day. Why not host an unforgettable wedding at a beautiful facility, all without breaking the bank. Ready to host your wedding at the Nisswa Community Center?

Call the City of Nisswa at 218-963-4444 to make your reservations or schedule a walkthrough. The Nisswa Community Event Center also hosts plenty of birthday parties, reunions, private special events, anniversaries, company holiday parties, workout classes, education seminars and non-profit meetings. Whatever your needs might be, we have you covered.

Bridal, Bridesmaid & Prom

“Your one stop wedding shop! ” For over 50 years.

• • • • • • •

Ivy Chapel 712 Laurel Street, Downtown Brainerd

• • • • • • • • •

Over 500 Gowns in stock Express Bridesmaid Service Prom Flower Girls -Mothers New,Sample & Special Order Gowns Consignment & Budget Gowns Custom Sewing & Alterations Unique Jewelry, Shoes, Veils & Gloves

Other Services Ivy Chapel & Reception Room Officiants/Pastors Any Location Decorated Cakes & Catering Photographer & Videographer Musicians, D.J. Limo Service Horse & Carriage 15% off wedding invitations Printing & Engraving

Tuxedos • Free Grooms Tux w/ Rental of 5 or more • Shoes,Accessories & Groomsmen Gifts • Personal Fittings and Alterations

Flowers & Accessories • • • • •

Fresh or Silk Flowers Invitations, Napkins & Candles Balloon Decorating & Arches Rental Decor for Church or Receptions Candelabras & Champagne Fountain

FREE Wedding Consultation Nila Patrick - Wedding Consultant Call for an appointment

218.829.1771 800.491.1770

2020 | Weddings North 35

2020

OW

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Venue Guide

BO

ARROWWOOD LODGE AT BRAINERD LAKES BREEZY POINT RESORT

CRAGUN’S RESORT

CWC FAIRGROUNDS DENNIS DRUMMOND WINE COMPANY

Responsible for all the important details… of your special day!

218.232.0333 www.kelliengstrom.com

GRAND VIEW LODGE

MANHATTAN BEACH LODGE NISSWA AMERICAN LEGION NISSWA COMMUNITY EVENT CENTER NORTHLAND ARBORETUM PINE PEAKS WEDDING & EVENT CENTER

Open Tuesday-Saturday 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. • 587-2545 pineriverbakery.wordpress.com facebook.com/Pine.River.Bakery

THE WOODS/GATHER ON 3 B.MERRI

Elegant Yet Affordable in the heart of the lakes area [ Can accommodate up to 275 [ Catering on site to meet your needs and budget

License #A-01124-001 — Post 627 —

www.nisswalegion.com | 218-963-9946 | Open 7 days a week at 10 am On Main Street, just north of the Pioneer Village & Carlson Hardware

36 Weddings North | 2020

Starting in Oct. Winter Hours Apply

TIMBERS EVENT CENTER AND TIMBERLAKE HOTEL WHITEFISH LODGE & SUITES

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Specialties/Amenities

300

Multiple areas within the property; courtyard and pergola, reception space for dinner and dancing.

500

Ballroom overlooks Pelican Lake, beachside and pavillion options; Breezy Belle boat with 100 capacity.

450+

Stunning views of Gull Lake, manicured golf courses, beachside and ballroom options, Gull Lake Cruises Luxury Yacht.

40 acres, completely fenced in, 70+ campsites; multiple buildings and Mills Free Stage.

800

Bridesroom available with mirror, great lighting and private bathroom (groomsroom also availble). Wedding patio facing the sunset!

200

Most awarded property in the state. Iconic ceremony sites and a wide variety of reception venues that are perfect for parties of 20 to 400 guests.

400

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150

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Big Trout Lake of the Whitefish Chain; venue is completely exclusive when booked for a wedding.

220

Clean, budget friendly; state-of-the-art multi media & sound system.

299

Ample parking, proximity to city park for outdoor options.

175

Unlimited outdoor guest capacity; surrounded by breathtaking gardens and wildlife.

300

Four-Season Wedding Resort with on-site Wedding Party lodging and Motor/RV parking plus Hotel Lodging.

300

Convenient one-stop location catering, lodging, restaurant, shuttle service & more.

250

Handicap accessible. Sound system and in-house audio/visual available.

300

Overlooks the 11th hole of Crosswoods Golf Course; “all in one” wedding venue.

BANQUET FACILITIES AVAILABLE Call today to book

your meeting or event!

Fraternal Order of Eagles, Brainerd Aerie 287 (218) 829-4216 | 124 Front Street, Brainerd Monday - Thursday 12 noon - 10:30 pm Friday & Saturday 11 am - 12:30 am www.brainerdeagles.com

HAPPILY EVER AFTER STARTS HERE

LARSON’S BARN MCGREGOR MN LarsonsBarn.com 218-4266-3648

Main St., Nisswa | 218.963.3306 | www.rwjewelers.com

2020 | Weddings North 37

SPONSORED CONTENT

WINTER WEDDING CELEBRATION Pine Peaks Wedding and Event Center

BY SHEILA HELMBERGER What if you could spend your entire wedding weekend celebrating with your friends and family at a beautiful, private, 80-acre gated estate With Pine Peaks Wedding and Event Center near Crosslake, owner Dave Peterson and his wife, Julie, have created a wedding resort that offers a true destination wedding. Secluded, away from everything, they make it possible to wake up the morning of your vows and have a cup of coffee and relax instead of running around from place to place picking up items you’ve rented. Dave and Julie supply almost anything a wedding couple might need. They furnish the tables, chairs, linens, chair covers, and skirting in multiple colors. Chair sashes and table runners in 24 colors plus an entire storage room filled with decorations. “Most people don’t have to haul much at all,” he says. Set up is done by the wedding party and take down is done by staff at Pine Peaks.

PHOTOS SUBMITTED BY PINE PEAKS WEDDING AND EVENT CENTER

The Big Day Pine Peaks Wedding and Event Center partners with Maucieri’s Restaurant in Crosslake for catering services.

The wedding couple and staff will work together to create the reception menu.

“We allow customers to bring their own desserts and snacks for their reception,” Dave says.

Parking spaces are available for many motorhomes with power, sewer and water hookups.

Delivery, setup and removal for RV rentals can be arranged.

The Property Dave gives each couple an extensive tour of the property when they meet – and there’s a lot to see.

There’s a view of serene beauty from every deck and porch. It’s a photographer’s dream of rolling hills, fields and pines. For your wedding ceremony there are a variety of local churches to choose from.

You can also opt to use the beautiful heated, draped pavilion at Pine Peaks set up with wedding ceremony chairs for your guests.

The seasons in lake country can change

quickly, sometimes overnight. Raising or lowering tent walls and utilizing heaters or fans, you can create your ideal temperature and make the atmosphere as cozy or as open as you’d like.

Extras After rehearsal, just move your wedding party into a space in the pavilion and have your groom’s dinner right there. Wood-fire pizzas can be made, or you can DIY grill burgers or steaks for the wedding party, offering a nice laid-back evening before the big day.

Winter Wedding Discounts

There’s no doubt Pine Peaks offers a few extras that other places can’t.

“We’ve had over 340 weddings and no two have been the same,” he says. Nearly 50 weddings are already booked for 2020. We are now booking into 2021 and 2022.

Unlike many venues we provide all liability insurances and a $25,000 Wed-Safe Wedding Cancellation Policy to keep your investment safe.

Winter Wedding packages are discounted by up to 50% from our peak Spring/Summer/Fall season. Call 612-986-6800 for more information and to set up a tour.

38 Weddings North | 2020

The Retreat House “Just about every couple uses our retreat house,” Dave says.

Across a pathway from the event center is a 5,000-square foot home with five bedrooms, four bathrooms and a loft with four more beds. “Typically, the wedding party and a few friends will stay here and have a nice time together for several days.”

The master suite includes a Jacuzzi and a see-through fireplace. Also on site? A two-chair hair and makeup salon, a pool table, and laundry facilities.

The home features a gourmet kitchen, screened porch, pool table, games, an outdoor sauna and a propane fire pit.

Dave and Julie know your wedding is more than just one really big day. It’s a weekend affair and the house is available to rent to couples from Thursday until Monday. A block of up to 28 rooms is available from Pine Peaks Lodge and Suites in Crosslake with shuttle service available to and from the reception.

The Brainerd Dispatch and Pine Peaks Wedding and Event Center contributed to this content.

WINTER WEDDING d n a l r e d n o W photo by Tim Larsen

photo by Paul Middlestaedt

- Avent Imaging

photo by Joe Dose prof

essional Photographer

nt Imaging

by Paul Middlestaedt -Ave

photo by Joe Dose

2020 | Weddings North 39

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Corner of 7th & Laurel Downtown Brainerd 829-7266 www.elmenkjewelers.com