renae + austin

from Area Woman Magazine Feb/Mar '20

by Lake & Home Magazine | Area Woman Magazine

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SEPTEMBER 14, 2019

WORDS : MEGAN ELGIN

PHOTOGRAPHY : HALEY FROST CREATIVE

An adventurous couple who love traveling, camping and being outdoors, Renae and Austin knew The Pines was the perfect venue as soon as they saw the original sketches and plans — before it was even built. Renae says, “We wanted to get married outside and their outdoor ceremony spaces are so beautiful.” They took the venue’s natural lighting, gorgeous farmhouse tables and tree-lined trails as inspiration for a whimsical forest-themed wedding day.

The mid-September day started out with drizzling rain and a moody atmosphere that seemed destined to enhance their whimsical forest theme. After a morning of getting ready and enjoying time with their wedding party, the couple met for a first look on one of those tree-lined trails. “It was just the two of us and the photographers, so it was really intimate and relaxed,” says Renae. “It was a really special moment between us before the craziness of the rest of the day started.”

The sun came out just before the ceremony so Renae and Austin could say their vows outside in the open field. Renae carried a lush bouquet of flowers centered on the flower that inspired it. “I saw a post on Pinterest of a bouquet with a king protea in it and knew that I had to have them because of how beautifully unique they are,” says Renae. “I was so glad that the florist was able to add it in my bouquet, and queen proteas in the bridesmaid bouquets, because I absolutely loved how they turned out.” She floated down the aisle in a stunning lace and tulle gown accented with a dusty rose velvet ribbon that complemented Austin’s floral tie and subtly patterned suit. A personalized ceremony officiated by Renae’s uncle was especially meaningful for the couple.

After the “I do’s,” the wedding party finished taking photos while guests entertained themselves with cocktails and yard games handmade by the groom. Everyone sat down inside for dinner at elegant tables laid with greenery, candles and gold accents. Renae says her favorite part of the day was after dinner. “Everything was over and we could finally just relax and celebrate with all of our friends and family and take it all in.”

Renae advises engaged couples to keep focused on each other. “Everyone is going to have an opinion, which can be a little overwhelming. Heed their advice, but in the end it is you and your future spouses’ special day, so your primary focus should be what you two want.” She also credits photographer Haley Frost Creative with creating a wedding day timeline to keep everyone on track. “It was so helpful to distribute to the wedding party and our families so everyone knew exactly where they needed to be and when.”

The newlyweds went exploring, snorkeling and hiking on their honeymoon in Maui. They live in Fargo with their two cats and a dog, Nellie, who loves going on adventures with them in their spare time.

VENUE: The Pines