Dainty Obsessions v.5 | no.2 Wedding Magazine

SIX

MIDWEST REAL WEDDINGS GLITZ + GLAM AT CITY HALL LAKE ELEMENTS AT THE APOSTLE ISLANDS ONE BRIDE, TWO INCREDIBLE DRESSES + MORE

THE

BEST VENDORS IN THE REGION

+GET TO KNOW

GATHERED. BOUTIQUE RENTALS & EVENTS SM HAIR + MAKEUP

BARE YOUR LOVE ROMANTIC BRIDAL CUT-OUTS

D I S P L AY U N T I L A U G U S T 3 1 S T

VOLUME 5 | NO. 2 SPRING + SUMMER 2017

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photo by:

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M I N N E A P O L I S

N A S H V I L L E

Image courtesy of Anne Barge

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SPRING + SUMMER 2017 CONTENTS

124

100

34 Features 6

Publisher's Letter

12 Giveaway

4

14

Get to Know | Gathered. Boutique Rentals & Events

18

Etiquette | Pinnacle Productions

20

Engagement Story

24

Get to Know | SM Hair + Makeup

98

Vendor Trends

90 108

Honeymoon Diaries

114

Honeymoon Destinations

116

Dainty Living | Sweet Recipes

120

Newlyweds at Home

126

Vendor Guide

130

Real Advice

66

58

14

Inspiration

Real Weddings

28

Color Inspiration Boards

34

Wynne + Ben

42

Bare Your Love

50

Estelle + Matthew

66

Simply Green

58

Jessica + Christopher

84

Ample Appetizers

76

James + Tim

90

Leandra + John

100

Ingrid + Jason

da i nt yobs e s s i ons.c om 5

Letter from the Publisher While we didn't have flowers for that particular shoot, our Sioux Falls bridal photo shoot had plenty, and the team at Bella Rosa Floral Design outdid themselves.

Speaking of outdoing themselves, we were thankful Riddle's Jewelry hand-delivered over $100,000 in diamonds.

Our office is constantly laughing and smiling about how much we wish we could blog what goes on during all of our article and styled shoots. So many funny and unforgettable moments happen, like a (very) pregnant Denae of Denae Brennan Weddings & Events stepping up and helping us open champagne for vendors, Chef Mark of Prairie Berry East Bank letting us feast on all of the incredible appetizers after our food and drink shoot wrapped (making us feel very lucky and gluttonous), and everyone giggling as Emily Mitton Photography took images of the Newlyweds at Home couple in bed (it wasn't as weird as it sounds).

PHOTO GR APHY BY MICHAE L L I E DTK E PHOTO GR APHY

We're very proud of this issue and of the stories

The sun is out again, and it's officially spring and

inside. Tim and James won us over with their classy

summer wedding season in the Midwest! We're

affair that ended with them exiting and not knowing

simply excited about all of the latest trends here at

where to go. What did they do? Texted their friends

Dainty Obsessions. Whether it's a small cake with

and met them at a bar to let the celebration continue.

buttercream, or a subtle table runner that makes the

Leandra and John had a moment only some dream of

entire reception table, it seems like less is more.

with confetti cannons going off to end their ceremony

That's what got our minds churning when we brainstormed our Minneapolis styled shoot. Mixing

to the sounds of "Race for the Prize" by The Flaming Lips and the audience singing along.

modern-rustic elements, Kindred Blooms proposed

These moments are what weddings are all about, and

that we create an atmosphere without using flowers -

that's why we are obsessed.

even nixing florals for the bouquet. We instantly fell in love with the greenery, which just so happened to be the 2017 Pantone Color of the Year.

Follow Dainty Obsessions on Instagram: @daintyobsessions

daintyobsessions.com

Meet Laura Evavold of Faces by Laura, as we see her in action at her studio and chat with her about her beginnings and what trends she's loving.

See even more styled shoots on our blog, like this gorgeous woodlandsinspired scene featuring B. Photography, Confetti Creative Co., and other Midwest vendors.

Start planning your dream day with our free, printable wedding planner, featuring advice and inspiration from the best vendors in the region.

Photo credit LB Photography

A Black Hills wedding venue off the beaten path The Homestead at Prairie Berry Winery offers rustic charm in a breathtaking setting. Enjoy menu items prepared by our in-house culinary team, award-winning wines and local craft beer with exceptional service, all in our refreshing, private environment.

2 3 8 3 5 H W Y 3 8 5 , H I L L C I T Y , S D 5 7 74 5 | 6 0 5 . 5 74 . 9 6 3 1 | P R A I R I E B E R R Y . C O M / H O M E S T E A D

PUBLISHER Alana Snyder ART DIRECTOR Liz Painter SALES MANAGER Emily Swan CONTRIBUTING WRITER Denise DePaolo

DREAM IT

S P R I NG C OV E R Jewelry: Borsheims Fine Jewelry & Gifts Dress: Posh Bridal Couture Greenery + Styling: Kindred Blooms Photography: Kelly Birch Photography Hair + Makeup: SM Hair + Makeup Venue: Loring Social Model: Molly Fritz S U M M E R C OV E R Dress: L'Atelier Couture Bridal Photography: Geneoh Photography Hair: Swept Up Makeup: Tina Beaupre Makeup Artistry Flowers: Arts and Flowers Design Studio Venue: Outing Lodge Couple: Wynne Reece and Ben Klaassen

CREATE IT

Live It!

CORRESPONDENCE 300 N. Cherapa Place, Suite 504 Sioux Falls, SD 57103 (605) 274-1999 ext. 1 | contact@daintyobsessions.com ADVERTISING INQUIRIES Emily Swan | (605) 274-1999 ext. 4 sales@daintyobsessions.com CHECK US OUT W W W. DAI NT YO B S E S S I O NS. C O M

Dainty Obsessions is printed biannually by The Mighty Bowtones, LLC in Sioux Falls, SD. ©2017 Dainty Obsessions. All rights reserved. Content in this magazine should not be copied in any way without written permission from the publisher.

Dainty Obsessions assumes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or photographs. Materials will be returned only if accompanied by a stamped, selfaddressed envelope. Content in articles, editorial material and advertisements are not necessarily endorsed by Dainty Obsessions.

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da i nt yobs e s s i ons.c om 9

Behind the Scenes

CELEBRATE WITH US

Art director Liz Painter takes a light test shot outside of Lake Harriet Florist for our blog on seasonal floral trends.

Alexia and Emma Kelsey of Kindred Blooms creates a wall installation made completely out of greenery for our styled shoot at Loring Social in Minneapolis, MN.

Anna Andachter, a.k.a. The Cake Lady, shares and creates three dessert bar recipes in her kitchen for newlyweds to try.

Amanda Coffman of Vanessen's Hair Design adds final touches to model Brittany Christensen for our bridal shoot at Summit Events Hall.

Emily of Emily Swan Photography (and our lovely Dainty sales manager) steps up for our food and drink shoot at Praire Berry East Bank.

Emily Mitton of Emily Mitton Photography reunites with couple Kate and Craig Hoekstra for our Newlyweds at Home article in Sioux Falls, SD.

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Giveaway BORSHEIMS FINE JEWELRY & GIFTS OMAHA, N E | 8 0 0.6 42 .GIF T| W W W.BORSHEIMS.C OM

ENTER TO WIN OUR SPRING + SUMMER GIVEAWAY WITH BORSHEIMS FINE JEWELRY & GIFTS

WHAT YOU WIN A $1,000 WEDDING BAND PACKAGE

>> HOW TO ENTER:

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>> THE DETAILS:

“Like” Dainty Obsessions and Borsheims Fine Jewelry & Gifts

To collect your gift card toward the purchase of your

on Facebook, then e-mail us at giveaway@daintyobsessions.com with your name, wedding date, and contact information for your chance to win!

wedding band set, the winner must contact promotions@ borsheims.com and provide your name, phone number and address after notification of winning August 31, 2017.

FACESBYLAURAE.COM LAURAEVAVOLD@GMAIL.COM • (701) 595-6763

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C ON TACT IN FO

Get to Know

FARG O, N D ( 701) 4 12- 3 78 2 GATHEREDRE N TAL SAN DEVEN TS.C OM

PHOTO GRAPHY BY HALE Y F RO ST CR E AT IVE

GATH ER ED. B OU T IQ UE R E N TALS & E VE N TS Sometimes you don't even know what you want to be when you grow up until your career finds you. Carrie Brusven, searching for her passion, didn't realize her expertise was right in front of her when she volunteered to set up events in her community.

Brusven told us her story behind Gathered. Boutique Rentals & Events and gave us a look in her Fargo, ND showroom.

How did you get your start?

Carrie Brusven: [Laughs] I have absolutely no background in design or wedding planning, or anything like that. I had gone to school for religion and German, and I was not quite sure what exactly I wanted to do with that – go figure. We weren’t planning on staying in Fargo long-term, just long enough until my husband finished the last of his college. I was working at a church in Moorehead just waiting around until we moved somewhere else so I could finally decide what I really wanted to do. Before I knew it, eight years had gone by, and suddenly I realized, "Ah, crap! I could be doing something much cooler right now than basically being a secretary!" I had been helping out with some events at the church, trying to make them a little more exciting with things people actually wanted to go to, and people kept telling me, “Carrie, you’re really good at this. You 14

should, like, actually get paid for it.” I kind of laughed at them, because I thought, Well that’s just silly. Then I realized: Wait a minute – people actually do things like this to make a living. That is a viable option! So I started researching a little bit, and finding out what other rental companies were doing, and decided that it looked pretty darn awesome!

Tell us about the early days of the company.

CB: I started a little bit with some family members who were getting married, and then slowly people started telling me they heard that I do weddings, and I was like, “Yes. Yes I do,= you bet!” It was really important for my husband and me to not take out a business loan. We wanted to grow the business very organically, so little by little, as we could afford to grow it, I started renting out my living room furniture [laughs]. I would pick up our couch and carry it out of our living room, and take the things

"WE’RE STILL VERY MUCH IN THE BUSINESS OF FOUND ITEMS, BUT NOT NECESSARILY JUST RUSTIC."

off the walls, so for the first couple of weddings our house was basically empty. My son was probably 3 years old at the time, and I remember he would come out on a Saturday morning and say, “What?! Mom! Where is all of our furniture?” And I would be like, “It’s all right! It will be back in a few days, I promise!”

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"SOME PEOPLE FORGET ABOUT VINTAGE GLASSWARE, TOO. IF EVEN JUST FOR THE HEAD TABLE. HOW MANY CHANCES ARE YOU GOING TO HAVE TO ENJOY A HEAD TABLE WITH BEAUTIFUL GLASSWARE AND SILVERWARE WITH JUST THE RIGHT TOUCHES?"

3 FUN FACTS ABOUT GATHERED. BOUTIQUE RENTALS & EVENTS • • •

Carrie is absolutely, 100 percent a craft beer girl. One of her favorite things is to try out a new brewery and sample their best IPA! Two years ago, she had the opportunity to sit down to dinner with Chip and Joanna Gaines and talk design, politics, and family life. She was so excited that she had to focus very hard to avoid choking on her lasagna.

Carrie's very favorite part of designing a wedding is the moment the bride walks in and sees everything they have planned together in person. Making someone else's dream a reality and being part of one of the most important and personal experiences in another person's life is "absolutely the biggest joy of this business."

Tell us about your recent rebrand and what inspired it.

CB: We started out as Rustic Trunk, because that’s

How did it change into what it is now?

CB: Little by little we added a couple pieces and then started storing things in the garage. That started to overflow into our four-seasons porch, and then I filled up our basement, and then my husband kicked me and my business out [laughs]. We got a storage unit, and then we got another storage unit, and then a bigger one, and now we have a little warehouse. It just keeps growing and has gone better than I ever thought it would have. It’s just really exciting.

How many pieces do you think you have in your company?

CB: It’s hard to say. There are a lot of little collections, like glassware and silverware, and that really adds up if you count piece by piece. Maybe not counting all of the small pieces, the big pieces of furniture we have 12 farm tables of one size, 10 tables of another size, probably about 200 chairs, maybe 30 or so pieces of upholstery furniture, and rugs, coffee tables and end tables. So we have a lot.

You also do commercial and corporate work, correct?

CB: Actually, it’s really fun to do corporate events, because they’re not quite as time-consuming with the planning. We’re not doing it a year or two in advance, and we’re really allowed to have more creative freedom.

A lot of times we’re doing lounge setups for things like a holiday party or a fundraiser or a big conference.

We’re putting together collections to make the event comfortable and enjoyable for their guests. We’ll set up their welcome table, their registration table, etc.

Sometimes we do the conference itself, so we bring in our farm tables and chairs with mixed lounge and traditional seating – all kind of depending on what they need. Now that we also have started collecting vintage glassware, we’ve started doing styled cocktail parties. It’s been really fun using the glassware with a particular color scheme to go with their event, especially around the holiday season. Small private events, like at the lake or rehearsal dinners, have also been super cool. We’ve done birthday parties, family reunions, all kinds of stuff.

really how my style started out – very rustic and primitive. Since we’ve been in business for a couple of years now, my style has grown beyond that, and our collection has grown beyond that quite a bit. I felt like the name Rustic Trunk really pigeonholes our style, so I wanted to – really quickly, with the name of our business - be able to communicate to people that we are so much more than just rustic. Now we do modern, boho, rustic, vintage, glam, romantic – all kinds of stuff. So we spent a lot of time trying to find our new name, and we landed on Gathered because it still spoke to our eclectic style. I love mixing one style with another. I love the name Gathered and all of the different connotations that name has. We’re gathering all of the people, and it’s a gathering of all the people and memories. All these things together make us who we are, and we want to help our clients celebrate who they are and tell their story.

So you have no experience styling, but you’re really good at it. How and when did that happen?

CB: I owe some of it to my mom and my dad, who have always been antiquers. My mom would drag my two sisters and me around all over the state when we were little and take us to antique shows and flea markets, so watching her put things together and how she scouted for things was inspiring. My dad is really good at building things, and he helped us with our house, so growing up I was always watching them put the house together themselves. Naturally that became a part of who I am and how I do things. My first instinct is never, “Okay, I need this, so I’m going to look out for something to buy.” No. "What do I have that I’m going to put there, or how can I make that myself, and what are the materials I need to accomplish what I’m imagining here?"

what are you going to put with it? Why not expand on that and make it look that much more natural and complete by putting a couple of end tables in there, a couple of throw pillows, a throw blanket, or maybe an ottoman. Those details make the setting so much more complete and inviting. Tell people it’s okay to come sit on the couch. Make it appear like you are welcome to actually enjoy that space for a while.

Anything to note?

CB: Yes! You can submit a wish list right from our website! Also, we are constantly adding to our inventory every day, so even with trying to get everything photographed, there are always things that haven’t been photographed yet. Please contact us, because if you’re thinking of an item, we might very well have it!

"I’M SEEING A LITTLE BIT MORE MID-CENTURY, WHICH I’M REALLY EXCITED ABOUT THAT STYLE. IT’S LESS ABOUT THAT CLUTTERED, BUSY LOOK, AND IS A LITTLE MORE MODERN WITH CLEAN LINES AND SIMPLICITY."

Any other different types of rentals people might not realize to use?

CB: We say that the beauty is in the details, so often times we’ll have people come and say, “Oh my gosh, I love that couch for my wedding,” and then they just rent the couch. I’ll ask them what their plan is, and they tell me they’ll probably put it in XYZ spot. Well, da i nt yobs e s s i ons.c om 17

C ON TACT IN FO

Etiquette

SIO UX FAL L S, SD ( 60 5) 3 76 - 57 16 PIN NACL EPRODJ.C OM

CHRIS HINTZ OF PINNACLE PRODUCTIONS

MIRROR PHOTO BOOTH ON THE BLOG

PHOTO GRAPHY BY ZOSS PHOTO GR APHY, E L I ZABE TH LUCI L L E PHOTO GR APHY, AN D M I KE HALL PHOTO G R APHY

Pinnacle Productions is constantly evolving and offering the latest in events. Owner Chris Hintz, along with partner Jeff Meuzelaar and over 20 team members, try their best to exceed expectations with professional entertainers, event directors, A/V techs, cinematography (PINstudios), and a variety of photo booths. Hintz gives his advice on readers' questions.

I love dancing to hip hop and radio hits, but everyone is telling me I can't have my DJ play it until late in the evening. Why can't I play it earlier since it's our day, and what is the latest I have to wait?

Chris Hintz: It’s your wedding reception, right? You can do whatever you want to, but remember your choices dictate and affect others. You can certainly play Top 40 or hip hop whenever you and your DJ want, but that can force the older demographic to leave earlier. However, a great DJ can skillfully blend new music with old, and keep both the young and young-at-heart happy. For instance, at a recent wedding, I mixed Bruno Mars' "24K Magic" with Sugarhill Gang’s

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"Apache", followed by "Billie Jean", then Meghan Trainer's "Me Too", and finally, "Celebration" by Kool & The Gang. This can help keep the young people's attention, while giving classic dance tracks that everyone knows.

How can I "brand" my wedding with a hashtag without cell phones showing up everywhere in my pictures and/or people not paying attention during the wedding?

CH: You can brand your wedding by staying true to your wedding vision. It’s not just a hashtag, but a vibe you're trying to create. If you're planning on creating a hashtag, do some research.

The last thing you want is to have your friends tagging photos with a hashtag someone else used. It’s your wedding; be unique and take the time to be sure

that it’s uniquely yours. Inevitably your guests will want to socially share their moments at your wedding. If you have a photo booth, see if that allows your hashtag to appear on the printed strips, or hire Pinnacle’s PINbooth, and we’ll upload those photos for you. We’ve seen couples include "No Cell Phones Allowed" in their invites or programs. It doesn’t always work, of course, but they have also had their officiants reiterate that during the prelude of the ceremony sometimes, too.

If my friend is single, do I have to offer them a "plus one"?

CH: Have to? No. Should you? Well…

Some people don’t care that they are single at a wedding. For others, it reminds them that life is passing them by; that while their friend is getting

married and starting this awesome new chapter, they're not passing that grade and feel “held back." You can’t control their feelings, but offering a "plus one" is more of a formality than a must.

My cousin asked if they could sing at my ceremony. Not to be rude, but singing is not their forte.

How can I turn them down without hurting their feelings?

CH: You can say no. It’s really that simple. I know we have to balance the feelings of others and try to make everyone happy, but on your wedding day? It’s really all about what you and your fiancé want. Yes, we make sacrifices along the way, but if you feel strongly about something, stand up for yourself. The temporary lack of comfort is better than years of resentment.

B.B.Photography Photography IT’S YOUR LOVE STORY, BRAG A LITTLE. IT’S YOUR LOVE STORY, BRAG A LITTLE.

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B.B.Photography Photography IT’SIT’S YOUR LOVE STORY, BRAG A LITTLE. YOUR LOVE STORY, BRAG A LITTLE.

B.B.Photography Photography YOUR LOVE STORY, BRAG A LITTLE. IT’SIT’S YOUR LOVE STORY, BRAG A LITTLE.

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Engagement Story

BETHANY + TOM

BY DENISE DEPAOLO

ETHAN DEGREE WITH GLASSER IMAGES

Bethany Petry and Tom Reinhardt’s spring wedding has been a long time coming. The Fargo couple started dating 10 years ago after meeting in a night class at North Dakota State University. The first thing she noticed was his tan skin, from a summer of lifeguarding. Tom said she grabbed his attention right away with her smile, and he had a hard time concentrating on anything else. So when she agreed to share her notes from the previous week, and subsequently slipped him a tic-tac-toe sheet, he was thrilled. A short time later, she came over to watch The Hills.

“She attempted the 'comfy-cute' look,” he laughed. “This is where she put time into getting ready, but then downplayed by wearing sweatpants and a comfy T-shirt to make it look like she didn't try very hard. I loved it!”

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For their first real date, though, they went to the movies. “It was a rainy night, and since we were broke college kids, he used his grocery money from his mom to pay for it,” Bethany remembered.

It didn’t take Tom long to realize that he wanted to marry Bethany, but the couple wasn’t in a rush to walk down the aisle. Instead, they spent the next several years finishing their education, traveling, and really getting to know one another. One shared interest they quickly discovered was sports, particularly basketball. The pair loves to catch NDSU games, and will sometimes treat themselves to an NBA game when their beloved Lakers play the Timberwolves, but their real passion is March Madness. In 2016, they made things interesting with their brackets.

“We had a bet. Whoever did better on their bracket got to pick date night, and I won,” said Bethany. “Tommy had to come to hot yoga with me.”

It was his first yoga class of any kind, and is quick to admit that it was a lot of fun. Tom and Bethany love March Madness so much, they planned their wedding date to correspond. That way, Bethany says, they will always be able to celebrate their anniversary by watching basketball.

The couple already shares one anniversary tradition - every single month. Their first date was on February 11, so each month, they try to do something special on the eleventh, even if it’s just a lunch. And they look forward to establishing even more traditions as they move on as a married couple.

BLUEBARNEVENTFLORAL.COM da i nt yobs e s s i ons.c om 21

“We’re really looking forward to hosting holidays at our house,” said Bethany. “Tommy’s family lives in Bismarck and mine is in Fargo. Being able to have both of our families come together and celebrate in one location would be really great, instead of going back and forth every other holiday. Having that opportunity to get everyone together under one roof would be fun, because our families get along together, as well, which is so nice.”

When the time came to pop the question, Tom wanted the proposal to mean something to both of them. So he brought her to the place where it all began. He rented out the classroom where they first met, and had a notepad ready for a game of tic-tactoe at their seats. After winning the

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first game, he challenged her to one more game.

“I challenged her to a game on a big tic-tac-toe board I bought,” he said. “I wanted to implement something into the proposal that we could have forever, so I got this board with silver pieces that we will now have and can remember that day by. The board had all of the pieces in it, so I started to pull the X’s out, hoping she would follow suit and pull the O’s out. She followed my lead, and the very last O she picked up had her ring under it.

Her face lit up, I grabbed the ring, got down on one knee and asked her to spend the rest of our lives together.

She said yes!”

Tom’s siblings were in on the plan, with his brother on hand to take

photos afterward. Now that it’s official, Bethany is having a great time planning the perfect day. Tom says he can’t wait to see Bethany in her dress and to celebrate with the people they love most. And because it is just one day, the couple is anxiously awaiting all that lies beyond.

“I'm most looking forward to him becoming a dad and watching our kids respect and love him as much as I do,” said Bethany.

Tom added, “Bethany is one of the most creative thinkers I know. As simple as this sounds, I'm looking forward to all of the creative and fun things and new chapters we will have together.”

BETHANY PETRY +TOM REINHARDT HOME: Fargo, ND PROPOSAL DATE: June 17, 2016 WEDDING DATE: March 17, 2017

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C ON TACT IN FO

Get to Know

MIN N EAP OL IS, M N 76 3.43 9.9161 W W W.S M MAK EUPINC.C OM

PHOTO GR APHY BY E L I ZABE T H LU CI LLE PHOTO G R APHY

S M HAI R + MAKEUP It all started with an idea and one assistant when Stephanie Martin decided to launch her hair and makeup business, SM Hair + Makeup, six years ago. The first year they took on 18 weddings. Fast forward to present day (with a light company rebrand), and the staff has grown to 22 employees with over 300 weddings this year. Growing more and more in demand, Martin is training new employees and is excited to expand their travel. We had the chance to chat with the beauty guru at her studio in Minneapolis, MN.

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Tell me a brief history on how your company began.

That's awesome!

Stephanie Martin: It was kind of my dream. I got my four-year degree in business

SM: I love this. I always tell people it’s my non-human baby, because I have three

management in hopes of having something of my own; I wasn't quite sure what. I had the passion for hair and makeup ever since I was a little girl, and that never went away. I was always that girl in school that people came to for dances and proms, and as I got older and people were getting married, I was just kind of on the side doing their weddings – this and that. I had a corporate job at the time, and my fiancé and I were getting married. I knew I wanted kids, so we thought it would be great to find something that would allow me to be home more, but I was so business-driven that I didn’t want to give that up, either. I wanted the best of both worlds. So I told him my idea and saw the niche for this, which has grown now, but at the time I saw the niche and the huge potential. That would mean I would need to quit my job and put everything into my business. Luckily my now-husband’s job

babies that are my world under the age of four. A lot of times I work from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m., because that’s when my kids are sleeping [laughs]. We have such an incredible staff – they are among the top in the industry. We’re one big team and family. We learn from one another, and this industry is forever-evolving, so sharing that knowledge and having that team atmosphere is important. I’m always making relationships and partnerships. Weddings are so wonderful, because brides are asking you to be part of one of, if not the most important, day of their lives.

had taken a good turn and could support us, so he said, “Go for it!”

where I’m like, “What am I going to do?! I don’t have enough time in the day!”

With so many team members and events, how do you stay so organized?

SM: There are definitely stressful days. I’d be lying if I said there aren’t days

just a couple of sisters making pretty things minneapolis, mn w w w.kin d red bl o o m s . co m

h e l l o @ k i n d re d b l o o m s . co m

Bold. Alternative. Romantic. sarahann.photography

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But I have a fantastic assistant who helps with a lot of the day-to-day stuff, like e-mails, scheduling meetings, phone calls – you name it, it falls under her job description. She’s pretty wonderful. And then I have another gal who is one of our makeup artists who also helps me on the business development side, so she’s vetting talent when we have people sending in resumes for interviewing for a job with us. She also helps with social media, because that’s huge in our industry to show hair and makeup and the visuals. Mainly the scheduling falls on me, which is fine, because I’m kind of a control freak. I’m a perfectionist and a control freak, so for work it’s fantastic, but for other aspects of my life, it’s not so great [laughs]. For the most part, I’m pretty O.C.D. for customer service and for getting things done in a certain timeline. I take pride in our reviews and the customer service we have, because I’ll do whatever it takes to go above and beyond to make sure a bride is happy with the services she and her bridal party are receiving.

"I’M A REALLY BIG GOAL SETTER, BECAUSE I BELIEVE IT’S REALLY IMPORTANT AND REWARDING TO SET GOALS FOR YOURSELF. MY DREAMS KEEP GETTING BIGGER, AND I REACH FOR THE STARS!"

non-bridal, because we have a commercial and editorial side to our business, so we love to be up on all of our techniques in that industry, also.

Do you recommend brides not straying far away from their everyday look for their wedding?

SM: It’s hard to say, because it truly depends on the individual and their features. Sometimes based on face structure and tones, when you use makeup on one person, it will still look natural.

But on another person, it will look way overdone.

So it’s a fine line of knowing skin tones and eye color and face shape and hair color. I always tell a bride that we want to enhance who you are.

We want to enhance your natural beauty. Are we totally on board to do a glamorous, Vogue editorial look? Absolutely. If a bride wants glam, we give her glam. Our slogan is “encourage, enhance, transform.” We want to encourage our clients, we want to enhance their beauty, and we want to transform how they feel. We want them to own who they are, feel good in their skin, and have that feeling of being the most beautiful

SM: Oh gosh, that is a tough question, because I pull from everywhere. Not even just other people or artists… just flipping through a magazine or seeing a combination of colors outdoors. I always think, “What if you did a combination of these colors in makeup?” I always encourage fashion weeks for what’s trending as far as bridal and

• • •

Stephanie got her first Airbrush Makeup Machine for her 18th birthday.

She has been perfecting her craft for a decade as of this year.

In the future, she hopes to have her own makeup line.

then did the bridesmaids, followed by the little flower girl. It was pretty basic flower girl makeup with some airbrushing so she could have the full experience. As I was airbrushing her face, she said, “Oh my goodness, this just feels like a million little angels kissing my face!” I will forever remember that when I airbrush. What a true statement on airbrushing!

bride.

How far does your team travel?

SM: We go anywhere. We service everywhere in Minnesota and have traveled outside of the state as well. Our big goal is to expand into other regions.

When should couples book hair and makeup?

SM: Our recommendation is to book as soon as possible, and I say that because most Saturdays of 2017 are already completely booked as of the fall of 2016. If you’re in the “busy season” (AprilNovember) book as soon as you can, because a lot of time, we might be booked already that same year. If we have any wiggle room, I always try my hardest to be available, but there’s only so much I can do.

What are some of your biggest inspirations?

3 FUN FACTS ABOUT SM HAIR + MAKEUP

Is there a special moment since your business started that stands out to you?

SM: The first thing that pops to my mind isn’t a bride at all. In my second year of doing this, when we were still much smaller, I was at a beautiful outdoor wedding past St. Cloud, and I had just gotten done doing the bride’s makeup. I

"TO COMMUNICATE AND CREATE A BRIDE’S IMAGE FOR HER, AND WALK HER THROUGH IT TO THE FINAL LOOK IS AMAZING."

Anything to add?

SM: I can never express to people enough how much I care. I take this business very seriously, and it means a lot to me. My staff means a lot to me, my clients mean a lot to me, and I get emotional talking about it. I’ve poured my blood, sweat and tears into it. Their business means so much to me, because my dream wouldn’t be a reality without them. We have over 300 brides this year, and I know every one of their names.

It’s the people and relationships that matter.

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Color I n spi r at ion B oar d s

Wine

Ivory

ROSE

Kylene Fitzsimmons Creative Studio 28

YOUR PERSONAL ON-SITE TEAM OF MAKEUP ARTISTS + HAIR STYLISTS

SMMAKEUPINC.COM • (763) 439-9161 • WILL TRAVEL

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Seafoam

Mau v e

Evergreen

Sarah Ann Photography 30

MOss

Denim

CAMEL

Mist and Moonlight Photography da i nt yobs e s s i ons.c om 31

t e r r ac o t ta

Tau p e

B. Photography 32

GREENERY

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real wedding

WYNNE + BEN PHOTO GRAPHY: GENEOH PHOTO GR APHY / / L AT E N IG H T PHOTO G RAPHY: MAT T H E W MUN S ON PHOTO G R APHY LO CATION: O UTING LOD G E AT PI N E P OI N T, ST I L LWAT E R, MN

Meeting after randomly crossing paths at a Labor Day gathering, Wynne and Ben dined on sushi (her first time giving it a try) and the rest was history! Marrying in Canada, the view was something you read about in storybooks. “Despite choosing a day in August, we were blessed with everything the mountains had to offer,” Wynne reminisced. “On our wedding day, we awoke to snowflakes, followed by a bit of rain, topped off with a dose of sunshine just in time for our outdoor ceremony overlooking Lake Louise. It was about as magical as one could possibly imagine.”

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To make sure they could celebrate closer to home, the reception took place in Stillwater, MN, where the magic continued (with two drop-deadgorgeous dresses). Wynne described, “Despite the sweltering heat of a Minnesota summer day, our vendors transformed our location into a midsummer’s night dream. If you can possibly envision a secret garden come to life, that is what we had.”

“WE PLANNED IN 11 SHORT MONTHS! TO BE QUITE HONEST, I AM A LITTLE BAFFLED WHEN I LOOK BACK AT HOW IT WORKED WITH MY DAILY SCHEDULE, AS I WAS ALSO WORKING FULL TIME AS AN ATTORNEY AND AS A WEDDING PLANNER - HECK, I HAD FIVE OTHER WEDDINGS WITHIN TWO MONTHS OF MY OWN!” —BRIDE

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“THE WEDDING PLANNING PROCESS WAS A WHIRLWIND, ESPECIALLY WHEN PLANNING A WEDDING IN CANADA AND A RECEPTION IN MINNESOTA – WE WERE DEALING WITH 30+ VENDORS! IT IS INCREDIBLY EASY TO GET CAUGHT UP IN THE LOGISTICS, CONTRACT COMPARISON, AND THE LATEST NEW THING ON PINTEREST, BUT IF YOU CAN SLOW DOWN AND EMBRACE EACH STEP, RECOGNIZING HOW IT CIRCLES BACK TO YOUR LOVE, IT WILL MEAN THAT MUCH MORE.” —BRIDE

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“MY FAVORITE MOMENT WAS JUST LOOKING TO STILLWATER, ESCAPING, JUST THE TWO OF US, WITH OUR INCREDIBLY TALENTED PHOTOGRAPHER, GENE. WEDDINGS ARE AMAZING AND FULL OF LOVE, EMOTIONS AND PEOPLE, BUT IN THE MIDST OF IT ALL, IT IS SO HARD TO SNEAK AWAY AND JUST BE TOGETHER.” —BRIDE

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wynne + ben's vendor list B R I DE ' S DR ESSES: L'AT E L IER COUTURE BRI DAL, TARA L ATOUR + VER A WANG

MU SICIAN S: CANT U S

CAK E : T HE COPPE R HE N

P HOTO G R AP HY: GENEOH PHOTO GR APHY

CAL L IGR AP HY + CLOSE - UP DRESS P HOTO GRAP HY: CARLY JO ST UDIO

L AT E N IG H T P HOTO G R AP HY: MAT T H EW MUNSON PHOTO G RAPHY

DAY - OF ASSI STANCE : S T YLE ARCHI TECTS

P HOTO B O OT H : SNAP YO URSEL F!

DES S E RT CATE R I NG : CO COA & FIG, PATI SSERI E 46, VICTORY 44

R EN TAL S: APR ÈS PAR T Y AND T ENT R ENTAL , ON SOL ID G ROUN D VI N TAG E

DJ : L E VE L II

R ENTAL S, T H E VINTAGE T YPE, RUDY' S EVENT R ENTALS

F LOR AL R I BBON: VE LVE T RAPTOR, SI LK AND WI LLOW

STAT ION ERY: PAPER RO CK SCISSORS

F LOWE R S: ARTS AN D F LOWERS DESIGN STUDIO

WEDDI NG P L AN N ER : L A VIE CHAR M É EVENTS

HAI R : SWE PT UP

VENUE + CAT ER I NG : O U T ING LOD GE

MAK EUP: T INA B E AUPRE MAKEUP ARTI STRY

T R AN SP ORTAT ION : ST IL LWAT ER T ROL L EY

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Dainty Styled Shoot

B A R E YO U R L OV E CHELSEY PHOTOGRAPHY ALL HAIL THE DÉCOLLETAGE! PLUNGING NECKLINES AND BOLD, ROMANTIC CUT-OUTS ARE HERE TO STAY IN 2017. WHAT WILL YOUR STATEMENT BE?

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"We're seeing loose, unstructured floral designs. The tight, packed look of the past is being replaced by a natural, free style." — Bella Rosa Floral Design

"Most dresses with cut-outs feature high necklines and a more conservative overall look, so it gives a flair, while also showing individuality and sexiness for the modern bride.� — Dream Dress Express

VENDORS JEWELRY: RIDDLE'S JEWELRY

DRESSES: DREAM DRESS EXPRESS FLOWERS: BELLA ROSA FLORAL DESIGN HAIR + MAKEUP: VANESSEN'S HAIR DESIGN PHOTOGRAPHY: CHELSEY PHOTOGRAPHY VENUE: SUMMIT EVENTS HALL MODELS: BRITTANY CHRISTENSEN + RANIA SEBIT

real wedding

ESTELLE + MATTHEW PHOTO GR APHY: N I NA F RANCI N E PHOTO G RAPHY LO CATION : PE N NY T RE E E VE N TS , PARK E R, S D

Exhausted after working an early shift at the coffee shop, Estelle walked into a surprise when she arrived back home. A scavenger hunt had been set up by her boyfriend Matthew that led her clue to clue. "The last spot

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was set up with a frame he had chosen, and in it was a list of a bunch of important dates in our relationship," Estelle recalled. "The last one said, '2.6.16 she said yes.' Matt came around the corner and proposed."

"MATT CAN TAKE CREDIT FOR THE PROPOSAL, BUT I WILL TAKE FULL CREDIT FOR SENDING THAT FIRST E-MAIL!" (REFERRING TO MEETING ON MATCH.COM) —BRIDE

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"MY YOUNGEST SISTER, CLARA, FOLDED HUNDREDS OF PAPER CRANES FOR OUR TABLES. IT WAS FUN TO SEE ALL THE SMALL KIDS HOARD THEM TO PLAY WITH AND TAKE HOME AT THE END OF THE NIGHT." —BRIDE 52

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"TAKE SOME TIME TO STEAL FOR JUST YOURSELF AND GO TO AN AREA WHERE YOU CAN SEE EVERYONE HAVING A GOOD TIME. I TOOK ABOUT 15 MINUTES TO MYSELF TO GRAB A REFRESHMENT, AND I JUST STOOD IN THE GRASS. I COULD SEE EVERYONE ON THE DANCE FLOOR AND UNDER THE TWINKLE LIGHTS HAVING FUN. IT WAS BEAUTIFUL." —BRIDE

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"GUESTS HAD FUN, OUR FAMILIES LAUGHED, AND MY HUSBAND SMILED AT ME. TWO IMPERFECT PEOPLE HAD AN IMPERFECTLY PERFECT DAY." —BRIDE

estelle + matthew's vendor list DES S E RTS: T HE CAK E L ADY

CI N EMATO G R AP HY: WHOL LY COWEN CINEMATO GR APHY

VE NUE : PE N NY T RE E E VE NTS

F LOWER S: M IL BANK FLOWER SHOPPE

B R I DE ’ S DR ESS: B RIDAL E LEGANCE, ALLURE BRI DALS

G RO OM’ S SUI T : M EN’ S WEAR HO U SE

B R I DE ’ S VE I L & CLI P: RONDA’ S BRI DAL

G RO OMSMEN SUI TS: OL D NAV Y, M EN’ S WEAR HO U SE

B R I DES MAI D DR ESSES: NORDSTROM, MOD CLOTH

L IVE MU SIC : T H E WAYBACKS

B R I DES MAI D ROBES: E TSY

P HOTO G R AP HY: NINA FR ANCINE PHOTO GR APHY

CAT E R I NG : CHE F D OM IN IQUE

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real wedding

JESSICA + CHRISTOPHER PHOTO GR APHY: L AURA IVANOVA PHOTO G RAPHY LO CATION: CHAPEL OF ST. THOMAS AQ UI NAS , ST. PAUL , MN / / ARIA , MI N N E AP OL I S , M N

A simple “hello” from a man behind the reception desk struck a cord in Jessica as she stopped by her mother’s work to say hello during a holiday break in college. She met that same cute guy again when she started her job at that same company two years later. Christopher quickly asked her to lunch one of her first days and “there were sparks.” He asked for her number and took her fishing at his favorite spot on Lake Minnetonka, where he would eventually propose to Jessica on a day she will never forget.

“It was such a surprise, and his sister was able to capture the very moment!

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Those are some of my favorite photos of us,” said Jessica.

They knew a timeless, yet romantic summer wedding was a must. But the significant date – July 15 – meant more. “It was a bit of a challenge getting the dates for the chapel and Aria to line up. They both had an opening on Friday, July 15, my grandmother’s birthday,” recalled Jessica. “She passed five years prior and had a huge impact on my life growing up, and I wish she could have met Chris.”

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“We didn’t want a lot of the formalities involved with weddings, so it made the planning pretty easy. No seating chart to deal with, our invitations were electronic, all food and drinks were self-serve, etc.

I didn’t even buy my wedding dress until three weeks before, and I bought it online and just wore it out of the box.” ^ Bride

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“CHRIS AND I DID A FIRST LOOK AND READ OUR LOVE LETTERS TO EACH OTHER. IT WAS ONE OF THE SWEETEST AND MOST EMOTIONAL MOMENTS OF THE DAY!” —BRIDE

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“I WANTED TO DO SOMETHING SPECIAL FOR THE FLOWER GIRL, SO I HAD A CLOSE FAMILY FRIEND MAKE HER DRESS, AND IT TURNED OUT BEAUTIFULLY! SHE AND HER BROTHER WERE SO ADORABLE TOGETHER!” —BRIDE

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“I HAD MY FLORIST WRAP MY GRANDMOTHER’S ROSARY BEADS AROUND MY BOUQUET. IT MEANT SO MUCH TO ME TO HAVE SOMETHING OF HERS ON MY WEDDING DAY. I ALSO WORE ONE OF MY MOTHER’S RINGS FOR MY SOMETHING BORROWED.”—BRIDE

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jessica + christopher's vendor list F LOWE R S: M F LOWE R S T UDIO

HAI R : IN NATASSJA' S CHAIR

B R I DE ' S DR ESS: B E L L A B R I DAL BOUTIQUE

L I N EN S AN D TAB L EWAR E: APR èS PAR T Y AND T ENT R EN TAL

B R I DE ' S SHOES: JES S ICA SI MPSON

MAKEUP: MAKEUP BY M INDIE

B R I DE ' S JE WE LRY: K AT E S PADE

P HOTO B O OT H : T H E T R AVEL ING PHOTO B O OT H

B R I DES MAI D DR ESSES: B E LL A BRI DAL BOUTIQUE, ADRIANNA PAPEL L

P HOTO G R AP HY: L AUR A IVANOVA PHOTO GR APHY

CAT E R I NG : CRAVE CAT E R ING

STAT ION ERY: PAPER , RO CK, SCISSORS

CHAP E L: CHAPE L OF S T. T HOMAS AQUI NAS

T R AN SP ORTAT ION : R ENEE' S ROYAL VAL ET

CI N E MATO G R AP HY: S NOWSHOE PRODUCTIONS

VENUE: AR IA

DJ : IN S TAN T R EQ UES T

WEDDI NG P L AN N ER : L AST ING IM PR ESSIONS WEDDING S

GRO OM' S AND G RO OMSMEN T UXED O S: SAV VI FORMALWEAR

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Dainty Styled Shoot

Simply Green K E L LY

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BIRCH PHOTOGRAPHY

THE 2017 PANTONE COLOR OF THE YEAR DEFINITELY CAME AT THE RIGHT TIME, AS GREENERY IN ITSELF HAS BEEN MAKING MORE AND MORE APPEARANCES IN WEDDINGS AND EVENTS WORLDWIDE. MIXING MODERN WITH A DAB OF RUSTIC, OUR INCREDIBLE TEAM OF MINNESOTA VENDORS SET THE SCENE OF WHAT MATRIMONY COULD LOOK LIKE WITHOUT A SINGLE FLOWER - AND WE APPROVE.

"WALL INSTALLATIONS ARE REALLY HAVING A MOMENT RIGHT NOW. WE WERE EXCITED TO CREATE SOMETHING THAT HAD A MODERN FEELING, BUT IS STILL CLASSIC IN DESIGN." — KINDRED BLOOMS

"SIMPLICITY AND MODERN LINES ARE FINALLY BACK IN BRIDAL. WE LOVE THE CLEAN AND SOPHISTICATED LOOK OF RIVINI THAT IS HIGHLIGHTED IN BOTH OF THESE GOWNS. SMALL TOUCHES OF LACE ADD A BIT OF ROMANCE THAT IS ALWAYS APPRECIATED IN A BRIDAL LOOK." — POSH BRIDAL COUTURE

"RUSTIC HAS BEEN A POPULAR THEME FOR WEDDINGS AS OF LATE, ESPECIALLY WITH THE RISE OF BARN VENUES. WHAT I LOVED ABOUT THIS SHOOT WAS THE OPPORTUNITY TO STEP OUTSIDE OF THE TRADITIONAL RUSTIC BOX AND MIX IN MODERN ELEMENTS. I ALSO LOVED THE IDEA OF BRINGING A RUSTIC VIBE TO A VENUE WHERE YOU WOULDN'T TYPICALLY SEE RUSTIC DÉCOR." — DENAE BRENNAN WEDDINGS & EVENTS

FILM ONLINE

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VENDORS

JEWELRY: BORSHEIMS FINE JEWELRY & GIFTS

DRESSES + BRACELET: POSH BRIDAL COUTURE TUXEDOS: TIP TOP TUX GREENERY + STYLING: KINDRED BLOOMS HAIR + MAKEUP: SM HAIR + MAKEUP PHOTOGRAPHY: KELLY BIRCH PHOTOGRAPHY PLANNER: DENAE BRENNAN WEDDINGS & EVENTS STATIONERY + SIGNAGE: A MILESTONE PAPER CO. CATERING: D'AMICO CATERING CINEMATOGRAPHY: ACOWSAY CINEMA DESSERTS: AMY'S CUPCAKE SHOPPE VENUE: LORING SOCIAL BOW TIE: AENDEE DINNERWARE: WEST ELM LINEN: LA TAVOLA FINE LINEN RENTAL RENTALS: RUDY'S EVENT RENTALS MODELS: MOLLY FRITZ + RYAN BURKE

real wedding

JAMES + TIM PHOTO G RAPHY: HAL F ACRE HO U S E LO CATION: TH E H I STOR IC WES L E Y CE N T E R, MI N N E AP OL I S CI T Y HAL L , MI N N E AP OL I S , MN

The love story between James and Tim began in “21st Century fashion” as they simply swiped right on Tindr. For the proposal, Tim surprised his future groom with friends at a local bakery where they spent part of their first date. James remembered with humor, “He put the ring in a box of monogrammed cupcakes. He had a ring for himself, too, waiting in the trunk of the car.”

Though they had a color palette and a classic-elegant theme decided, they wanted to stress the importance of personal touches throughout the day.

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“From the ceremony prayer offered by Tim’s childhood priest, to the gold dusted truffles from the South Dakota chocolate shop we visited on one of our first trips together, to the music that brought our friends to the dance floor remembering moments from high school dances, house parties, and many dance floors in Minneapolis, Spearfish, and Iowa City,” continued James, “it was important for us to incorporate many memories into the event where many new memories would be created.”

“FROM THE BEGINNING WE BOTH WANTED A VERY CLASSIC, TRADITIONAL, AND ELEGANT WEDDING. WE ALSO AGREED ON THE BLACK, GOLD, SILVER, AND WHITE PALETTE EARLY ON. WITH THESE BASIC CORNERSTONES, THE DETAILS REALLY BUILT THEMSELVES: FROM THE GOLD RIMMED INVITATIONS WITH A BLACK TIE TO THE GOLD PATTERN ON OUR CAKE (DESIGNED TO MATCH THE WEDGWOOD CHINA FROM OUR REGISTRY) TO THE MANY VARIETIES OF ALLWHITE FLOWERS, TO THE CHAMPAGNE (LOTS OF IT).”

—GROOM

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“AFTER THE CEREMONY, WE HAD A SEND-OFF WHERE OUR GUESTS WAVED STREAMERS AS WE WALKED AWAY – BUT AS WE WALKED THROUGH THE CROWD AND UP THE STREET, WE REALIZED THAT WE DIDN’T KNOW WHERE WE WERE SUPPOSED TO GO (THE ONE THING WE DIDN’T PLAN TO THE MINUTE). SO, WE JUST WALKED UP THE STREET TO THE NEAREST HOTEL BAR AND TEXTED OUR WEDDING PARTY TO COME MEET US. THE 45 MINUTES AT THAT BAR WITH JUST US AND OUR CLOSEST FRIENDS WERE SO FUN AND RELAXING – IT WAS A GREAT AND UNEXPECTED WAY TO SPEND OUR FIRST MARRIED MINUTES.” —GROOM 78

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“WE WANTED TO MAKE SURE THAT THE WEEKEND WAS FUN AND RELAXING FOR OUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS (I.E. NO SETTING UP CHAIRS, NO LAST MINUTE FLORAL ARRANGING, NO CLEANING UP), SO THE BIGGEST HELP ON OUR WEDDING DAY WERE OUR WEDDING PLANNER, CATERER, AND THE TEAM OF GREAT VENDORS.” —GROOM

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james + tim's vendor list WE DDI NG P L ANNE R : RO S ETREE WEDDI NGS & EVENTS

L IG H T I NG AN D SO UN D: EM I AUDIO

STAT ION E RY: A M IL ES TONE PAPER CO.

L I N EN R EN TAL S: L INEN EFFEC TS

CAK E : MARY MOY, PAT IS S ERI E 46

OF F ICIAN T : MAYOR B ETSY HOD GES

CAT E R I NG : J O S E PH CAT E RI NG

ORG AN I ST : GAVIN B ERG

DJ : DJ MICHAE L G RE Y

P HOTO G R AP HY: HAL F ACR E HO U SE

F LOWE R S: S T UDIO E M M E

R I NG S: T IFFANY AND CO.

GRO OMS' TUX E D OS: S UITSUPPLY

ST R I NG Q UART ET : L AKE M INNETONK A ST R ING Q UAR T E T

GRO OMSME N TUX E D OS: T H EBL ACKTUX.COM

T RUF F L ES: CHUB BY CH IPMUNK T RUFFL ES

HOT E L : W M INNE APOL IS – THE FOSHAY

VENUE: M INNEAP OL IS CIT Y HAL L

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Dainty Styled Shoot

AMPLE APPETIZERS EMILY SWAN PHOTOGRAPHY Many know the panicked feeling of opening a wedding invitation with the line, “Heavy hors d’oeuvres will be served.” Do you risk it and attend hungry, only to find crackers and cheese for the entire crowd? Do you eat beforehand? Appetizers are becoming more common these days, and we wanted to help inspire fresh (and filling) ideas for your event. Executive Chef Mark C. Benedetto for Prairie Berry East Bank in Sioux Falls, SD created several ideas that will delight the palate while also leaving guests satisfied.

FRESH CEVICHE SHOOTERS Full of color and flavor, it has everything combined into one easy-to-eat pilsner shot glass. A perfect marriage of lime, avocado, sweet corn, shrimp, scallops and other fresh seafood offerings.

RECOMMENDED PRAIRIE BERRY PAIRING: Prairie Berry’s Needle’s Eye or Gold Digger.

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THICK CRUST FOCACCIA PIZZAS + ROASTED FINGERLING POTATOES This pizza, created with fresh flavors, could be an entire meal in a single bite. Producing the focaccia bread in-house, it has a delicate saltiness with a balanced olive oil and rosemary aroma. Serve solo or give variety with several pizzas with seasonal ingredients piled high and prepared to perfection.

Try serving alongside roasted, organic fingerling potatoes or roasted seasonal vegetables for even more.

RECOMMENDED PRAIRIE BERRY PAIRING: Anna Pesa Zinfandel or Anna Pesa Meritage 2012

ASSORTMENT OF CANAPÉS + CROSTINIS An assortment of canapés and crostinis are perfect for giving guests a variety of flavors that also can be created with whatever ingredient fits your event. According to Chef Benedetto, “They work so well for events, because each offering is uniquely constructed and can be custom fit.”

RECOMMENDED PRAIRIE BERRY PAIRING: Flavor 1 - Anna Pesa Cabernet or virtually any style of Pale Ale; Flavor 2 - 2015 Anna Pesa Chenin Blanc; Flavor 3 - Anna Pesa Symphony 2015 (Pictured Back to Front: 1 - Smoked Prosciutto Crostini, 2 Finocchiona Canape, and 3 - Smoked Salmon Canape.)

HEIRLOOM TOMATO CAPRESE SALAD A feast for the eyes with vibrant colors and versatility, Prairie Berry East Bank recommends this appetizer to be served alongside a vast selection of charcuterie and wines. Enjoy this outside on the patio in the hot summer months, or indoors with dry reds and small pasta dishes.

RECOMMENDED PRAIRIE BERRY PAIRING: Prairie Berry’s Deadwood or Anna Pesa Riesling

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"SERVE ALONGSIDE A VAST SELECTION OF CHARCUTERIE AND WINES." — CHEF MARK

VENDORS

FOOD + LOCATION: PRAIRIE BERRY EAST BANK DRINKS: PRAIRIE BERRY WINERY + MINER BREWING COMPANY PHOTOGRAPHY: EMILY SWAN PHOTOGRAPHY

real wedding

LEANDRA + JOHN PHOTO G RAPHY: MAT T L I E N PHOTO G RAPHY LO CATION: RIVE RS I DE PARK , G RAN D FORKS , N D

Though Leandra and John knew of one another since high school and both attended the University of North Dakota, they didn’t become romantic until the fall of 2011. Fast forward to March 2014 when the couple had "date night" in the Twin Cities with a five course meal, a showing of The Manchurian Candidate opera, and walk in the park that led to him popping the question.

Their rustic-bohemian wedding took place under an area of trees at Riverside Park. One of the biggest highlights was when the couple kissed to

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make it official. Biodegradable confetti cannons went off, and the audience sang along to “Race for the Prize” by The Flaming Lips, who are known for having confetti showers in the crowd.

Leandra’s favorite part of the day? The first look. She explained, “That private, personal moment really helps clear your butterflies and makes you realize this is what the day is all about – the two of you. Reading our vows to each other in the moment was something we will never forget. It was nothing short of beautiful.”

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“WE WROTE OUR OWN VOWS, WHICH WE FIRST READ TO EACH OTHER AT OUR FIRST LOOK FOR A PRIVATE AND INTIMATE MOMENT BEFORE THE CEREMONY.” —BRIDE

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“JOHN AND HIS DAD BUILT A WOODEN PLATFORM WITH A BIRCH WOOD ARCH ATTACHED TO IT, AND THAT WAS WHERE WE STOOD DURING THE CEREMONY.” —BRIDE

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leandra + john's vendor list WE DDI NG P L ANNE R AND F LOWERS : SADI E’ S COUTURE FLORAL & EVENT

P HOTO G R AP HY: MAT T L IEN PHOTO GR APHY

S T YL ING , NOR T H DAKOTA

R EN TAL S: IDEAL WEDDINGS & EVENTS

CAT E R I NG : AUNT JAN IE ’S CATERI NG

SIG NAG E, CAR D B OX , WEDDI NG P RO G R AMS: E TSY

DJ : DANCE MAN PRODUCTIONS

VENUE: GR AND FOR KS PAR K DIST R IC T

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Vendor Trends WHAT' S TR ENDI NG? J U ST AS K O UR I NCRE DI BL E DAI N T Y VE N D ORS !

BLUE BARN EVENT FLOR AL N ORT H E R N S TOR IE S

HOLI DAY I NN R API D CI T Y RUS H MOR E PL AZA

L'AT E L I E R C O U T URE BRI DAL L AUR A I VA N OVA PHO TO G R A PHY

HANZL IK ST UDIO T H E PIC K E T F E NC E

C L AU S SE N PHO TO G R A PHY

“For something a little out of the box, try a "I have been noticing a lot more use of DIY bar or a late night snack option. Offer textural elements; anything from a few an assortment of pizzas and wings, a different types of greens to a variety of flowers all mixed into one bouquet. But this bruschetta tower, mini dessert shooters, or even a root beer float bar. We even offer a trend is not just exclusive to flowers, but also mismatched bridesmaid dresses - some flambe’ station in a variety of flavors.” sequin and some chiffon pulls the whole look together."

R ISON DESIGN

FACES BY L AURA

E L IZ ABE T H LU C IL L E PHO TO G R A PHY

C A R LY L OV E S A MO S PHO TO G R A PHY

"One of the latest trends that the ladies of L'Atelier Couture are loving is overskirts!

This is such an updated, modern way to change your gown without actually changing! The overskirt can be worn for the ceremony and even through to the first dance, when the bride can remove it to reveal a second look!"

HABI T UÉ C OF F E E HO U S E & CAK ES TO RE ME MBE R

"One of my favorite trends is 'green' weddings. Utilizing objects and florals that can be planted and kept alive after the wedding cuts on cost and waste. In this particular photo, you can see that succulents were used in every detail, from the bouquet to the napkin rings."

WH IT E L ACE B R IDAL & FORMAL WEAR C A R LY L OV E S A MO S PHO TO G R A PH Y

"This year, blue is a color to embrace in your "A popular look for brides right now is "There’s been a new shift towards painted floral, greenery, and décor with adored fairly natural makeup with emphasis on cakes. They’ve been popping up on beauty. Mix it with fragrant garden roses the lashes. Lush lashes are simple to create Pinterest and baking blogs over the last and different greens for a wonderful medley between using false individual lashes, couple of years for specialty cakes. They are of textures, and pops of silver metallic traditional strip lashes, or even mink lashes. now quickly becoming one of the newest accents for a perfect tablescape."

I always recommend adding some kind of trends in wedding cakes as well." false lash to enhance your own lashes when taking professional photos, as they help complete a look as well as ensure your own lashes don't disappear in photos."

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"We love separates, because it gives brides the ability to customize their dress in a way that is individual and unique. Floral was introduced to the bridal runways for spring/summer of 2017 for brides seeking a little color in their look!"

A FLOWER STUDIO & A VENUE

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real wedding

INGRID + JASON PHOTO GR APHY: JE F F LOVES JES S ICA PHOTO G RAPHY LO CATION: AP O ST L E H IG H L AN D S G OL F C O URS E , BAYF I E L D, WI

After successful matchmaking at the homecoming football game for the University of Minnesota, Ingrid and Jason hit it off fast. The pace of their relationship stayed at that speed when Jason found out two months into dating that he was being relocated from Minneapolis to Cincinnati for work. Staying strong long distance for two years, Jason proposed one

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night as they washed dishes together. “He came up behind me and said, ‘Sweetheart, turn around, I have a surprise for you,'” Ingrid recalled. When she turned around, he was on one knee. She continued, “It was simple and perfect.”

“WHEN WE BEGAN WEDDING PLANNING, JASON AND I KNEW WE WANTED THREE THINGS: TO BE ON THE WATER, TO HONOR OUR STRONG FAMILY TIES, AND TO HOST A MINI GETAWAY FOR OUR GUESTS. BAYFIELD, WISCONSIN WAS THE PERFECT MATCH.” —BRIDE

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“WE SENT OUR GUESTS HOME WITH BLUEBERRY JAM FAVORS FROM A LOCAL ORCHARD.” —BRIDE

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“I MADE OUR ESCORT CARDS OUT OF STONES FROM LAKE SUPERIOR, WHILE SPECTACULAR VISTAS OF THE LAKE AND THE APOSTLE ISLANDS SERVED AS OUR BACKDROP FOR THE WHOLE WEDDING.” —BRIDE

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ingrid + jason's vendor list VE NUE : APO S T L E HIG HL ANDS GOLF COURSE, BAYFI ELD, WI

G RO OM' S AN D G RO OMSMEN SUI TS: M ENGUIN

WE DDI NG C O OR DI NATOR : L ACE & BRASS EVENTS

HAI R : AYL A D O U GH ER T Y, L ANGUAGE OF HAIR

B R I DE ' S DR ESS: PRONOVIAS

L IVE BAN D: B LUEWAT ER KINGS BAND

B R I DES MAI D DR ESSES: W TO O

MAKEUP: T INA B EAUPR E

CAK E : HOW SWE E T IT IS CAKES

P HOTO G R AP HY: JEFF LOVES JESSICA PHOTO GR APHY

CAT E R I NG : G O OD T HYM E CATERI NG

R EN TAL S: APR èS PAR T Y AND T ENT R ENTAL

CI N E MATO G R AP HY: S K YFO CUS FI LMS

R I NG S: SINGL E STONE

F LOWE R S: SAF F RON & G REY

ST R I NG Q UART ET : BYRON KL IM EK

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Honeymoon Diaries MOLLY + ZACH HON E YMO ON DESTINATION : BARCE LONA , AMST E RDAM, L A S PE ZIA , AN D CI NQ UE T E RR E WEDDING LO CAT ION : MCKENNAN PARK / MU S EUM OF VI S UAL MAT E RIAL S , S IO UX FAL L S , SD

After an intimate wedding at McKennan Park on September 4, 2016, college sweethearts Molly O’Connor and Zach DeBoer took the trip of their dreams for two weeks backpacking in Europe. Learning about their heritage, experiencing a robbery, and eating up all of the food and design they could, their first trip as newlyweds was definitely full of adventure.

Can you briefly walk us through where you ended up traveling on your honeymoon, since you went to several locations?

Molly O’Connor: We spent two weeks in three European cities: Barcelona (Spain), Amsterdam (Netherlands), and La Spezia/Cinque Terre (Italy).

How and why did you decide on the locations in Europe? Was figuring out timing and travel logistics difficult?

MO: We knew that our honeymoon would be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, so we wanted to see and do as much as we could without exhausting ourselves (and our bank account). Once we figured out how much time we were going to spend in Europe, we made lists of cities we’d like to see, looked at dozens of ‘Best Cities in Europe’ posts, and ended up with an aggregate list of our top-three picks. We also wanted to experience three distinct cultures, but still remain in Europe.

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Did you use a travel agent? Why or why not?

MO: We did not use a travel agent. Between Airbnb and Kayak.com, we were able to take care of all our travel arrangements with relative ease.

What were some of your favorite highlights of each place that made them stand out?

MO: The architecture in Barcelona is astounding, specifically, the architecture of Antoni Gaudí. We toured four incredible Gaudí projects, La Casa Batlló, La Pedrera, La Sagrada Família, and Park Güell. However, Gaudí wasn’t the only artist responsible for Barcelona’s amazing architecture. It seemed like everywhere we turned, the buildings, plazas, and even benches were worthy of closer examination.

We spent a lot of time exclaiming "look at that!" in complete awe of the architecture around us.

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Lasting Impressions C

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From the moment you arrive, our wedding coordinator and professional catering staff will ensure the smallest details are tended to with style and flare You and your guests can relax and enjoy every moment of your wedding with Minervas and our hotel partners

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Aberdeen, SD ~ 605-226-2988 Okoboji, IA ~ 712-332-5296 Rapid City, SD ~ 605-394-9505 Watertown, SD ~ 605-394-9505 Yankton, SD ~ 605-664-2244 ENGAGEMENT PARTIES

REHEARSAL DINNERS

BRIDAL SHOWERS

Wedding Packages Include • Table & Chairs • Table Cloths • China & Flatwear • Cake Cutting Service • Background Music During Social & Dinner • Complete Bar Set Up • Dance Floor • Wireless Microphone & Sound System • Set Up: Head Table, Cake Table, Punch Table, Gift Table & Guestbook Table * Options vary based upon location RECEPTIONS

GIFT OPENING

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ANNIVERSARY DINNERS

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Elegant. Natural. Effortless Ceremonies & Receptions for up to 350+ | On-Site Catering and Accommodations | Choice of Four Resorts Five Different Reception Locations | Legendary Black Hills Destination Resort Experience Sylvan Lake Lodge | The State Game Lodge | Blue Bell Lodge

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MUCH TO OUR SURPRISE, THERE WAS ONE LONE GRAVESTONE THAT MIRACULOUSLY BELONGED TO HENDRIK. IT WAS BROKEN INTO FOUR PIECES, SO ZACH PLACED THEM BACK TOGETHER AND LAID THEM DOWN NEXT TO HIS WIFE.

What were some of your favorite highlights of each place that made them stand out?

MO: While we were in Amsterdam, we took a day trip north to the province of Friesland to explore some small towns where at least four generations of Zach's ancestors came from. We rented a car in Amsterdam and started our search for anything DeBoer-related. When we arrived, it was clear to see why Zach's great grandfather came to South Dakota. If you removed the canals that criss-cross the entire region, Friesland is a dead ringer for South Dakota.

We continued our search in the local cemetery, where we came across an old stone that belonged to Zach's Great Great Grandmother, Imkjen DeBoer (1858-1927), but her husband, Hendrik, was nowhere to be found. Before we gave up, Zach went to go investigate a pile of paver stones and rubble in a last ditch attempt to find Hendrik's stone. Much to our surprise, there was one lone gravestone that miraculously belonged to Hendrik. It was broken into four pieces, so Zach placed them back together and laid them down next to his wife.

Thank goodness for Zach's detective skills, otherwise we would have traveled across the world and would have never known what became of Hendrik.

What were some of your least favorite highlights of each place?

MO: Having to learn how to use the public transportation in every city was a bit trying at times. Coming from South Dakota, public transportation is rare.

When you’re suddenly faced with subways, buses, trams, cabs, and bike lanes, it can be a little overwhelming. That feeling was multiplied, since all the stops and instructions were written in languages we didn’t understand, with the exception of Spanish.

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Were there any crazy events that occurred while you were honeymooning?

MO: We experienced a theft at our Airbnb in Amsterdam, which threw us for a loop. However, we were able to check into a hotel and get back on track quickly.

Plus, we were able to experience The Student Hotel, which was as accommodating as it was beautifully designed. We can't speak highly enough of this place. With the tagline, "Everybody should like everybody," what's not to love?

What tips would you give to other travelers going there that you wish you had known?

MO: Keep all of your important and valuable items with you at all times. Luckily, we had slash-proof bags with zippers that locked, so this wasn't a problem. After our Airbnb was broken into, we were very grateful to still have our passports, cards, phones, cash and wedding rings. *If you don't have secure travel bags, put them on your wedding registry.

For how long did you travel? Was it enough time or too much?

MO: We were in Europe for just over two weeks, which was a little more time than we needed. By the last three days, we started to feel burnt out and really missed sleeping in our own bed.

What would you have done if you had a few extra days?

MO: If we had extra time, I think we would have explored some more ‘off the beaten path’ locations. We only had about four days in each location, so we were constantly in motion. We originally considered taking small day trips to

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AND, AS EXPECTED, ALMOST EVERYTHING IN ITALY WAS AMAZING. WE CONSUMED A LOT OF PIZZA, PASTA, MUSSELS, AND GELATO DURING OUR LAST FOUR DAYS. visit nearby places like Florence, Italy and Figures, Spain (home of the Salvador Dali museum), but with such a limited amount of time, we decided to stick to one location.

What were some must-try restaurants or cuisines/treats/drinks you recall?

MO: On our first day in Barcelona, we booked a table at a Michelin star restaurant called Cinc Sentits. We had a four-course meal with fascinating foods and presentations. It felt like a true intersection of art and cuisine.

On the other side of the spectrum, Amsterdam has amazingly delicious French fry shops spread throughout the city that are perfect for a quick snack. If you are ever in Amsterdam, make sure to visit Mannekenpis, one of the most popular fry shops.

And, as expected, almost everything in Italy was amazing. We consumed a lot of pizza, pasta, mussels, and gelato during our last four days.

How would you recommend travelers pack when going on a trip like this?

A water bottle with a built in filter was also very useful during our trip. Bonus points if it keeps your drink cold. To keep our phones fully charged, we relied heavily on an extra phone battery charger and a jump drive to back up photos onto when our phone’s storage filled up.

What should they leave home and not pack?

Ladies, don't bring your engagement ring. We bought an inexpensive wedding band that could be easily replaced if stolen and was durable enough to withstand two weeks of wear without ever taking it off.

Anything to add?

There are so many spiders in Amsterdam! No one ever mentions the spiders. However, Amsterdam is amazing, so don't let that deter you. Spiders or no spiders, we want to visit again someday.* There are far fewer spiders in the heart of the city, so stay in urban areas and away from greenery, if you want to avoid them.

Sum up your experience in three words.

Pack as light as possible. We didn’t want to check bags at each location, so we carried everything we needed in backpacks. Make sure to leave enough room for gifts, souvenirs, and other stuff you find along the way. You never know what you’ll pick up, like beautiful rocks from an Italian beach. Seriously, we brought home rocks.

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Thrilling, incredible, gratifying.

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PHOTO G R APHY S UB M I T T E D

Honeymoon Destinations

BY ALANA SNYDER

> CUSTER, SOUTH DAKOTA Love the outdoors? Want your trip to be scenic? Custer State Park is an amazing honeymoon spot where you can be as active and as relaxed as you want!

Custer State Park Resort's regional director of sales & marketing, Gina Konechne, talked with us on what to expect from the state park and wildlife reserve in the unforgettable Black Hills in South Dakota.

Where should people stay and why?

What makes Custer State Park a great honeymoon spot?

"LEGION’S NEW PATIO OFFERS SOME OF THE ONLY LAKESIDE DINING IN THE HILLS."

Custer State Park steals your heart. When guests honeymoon here, they start rediscovering what is important about life together in all of the simple experiences. More often than not, it evolves into a place they want to experience again with their future families together, too.

"OUR HONEYMOON CABINS ARE, OF COURSE, PERFECT FOR TWO, AND THEIR LOCATIONS ARE UNBEATABLE." 114

What makes it romantic?

Breathtaking and private sights and experiences, coupled with full services and amenities of the resort. Couples can get lost in the trees all afternoon and still return to a full-service restaurant with show-stopping views and regular wildlife sightings!

You can’t go wrong staying anywhere in the Park. Our four lodges offer both modernized cabins and lodge rooms. There are accommodations suited for two on up to our luxury Reunion Cabins with designer kitchens, four bedrooms, five full baths, and amazing views. Our Honeymoon Cabins are, of course, perfect for two, and their locations are unbeatable.

What is a can't-miss experience?

I can’t help but always say our Buffalo Safari Tour. The freeroaming herd is 1,300 strong, and the Safari Tours offer one guide per jeep of approximately 6-8 guests. They take you to lesser-known spots and also get you as close as possible to the bison, elk, burros, and more.

Where can we find an amazing meal for the foodies?

Foodies love it here because of the four different dining experiences at your fingertips. Each Lodge cooks up its own flavor, with many featuring local cuisine like buffalo, elk, and walleye. I see most couples enjoy at least one meal at each lodge

THE TOP THINGS TO PACK FOR THIS TRIP: A SENSE OF ADVENTURE A CAMERA HIKING BOOTS A SWIMSUIT AN APPETITE

before selecting a favorite!

Where is a romantic place for dinner?

Fresh, locally-sourced ingredients grace the dinner table at Sylvan Lake Lodge. The double-peaked wooden ceiling, hardwood floors, and stone fireplace lend an air of luxury that complements the view. In fair weather, make reservations on the stone veranda (dogs welcome) for al fresco dining with fabulous vistas of the Hills.

Where is a romantic place to grab a drink?

The patios are where it is at.

The Game Lodge Front Porch offers views of the Valley and will sometimes surprise with the herd bounding through; Sylvan’s Veranda can’t be beat at an elevation of 6,145 feet; Blue Bell’s Patio overlooks French Creek; and Legion’s new patio offers some of the only lakeside dining in the Hills.

What are your favorite activities

for active couples?

Everything! The Buffalo Safari Tours; Kayak, Canoe, or Paddle Boat Rentals; Guided Trail Rides; Chuckwagon Cookouts; Hiking, Rock Climbing; the list is endless.

Where can couples unwind?

Absolutely anywhere and everywhere in the Park.

How many days should people mark off for this trip?

Tough question to answer without saying, “As many as possible.” If couples want a full experience that includes Custer State Park, as well as all of the Black Hills, I would recommend a week minimum. The most consistent feedback we receive is that couples wish they would have taken more time here.

"COUPLES CAN GET LOST IN THE TREES ALL AFTERNOON AND STILL RETURN TO A FULL-SERVICE RESTAURANT WITH SHOWSTOPPING VIEWS AND REGULAR WILDLIFE SIGHTINGS."

What is the best time of year to visit?

our lush hiking trails, warm weather skies and abundant lake activities. Autumn ushers in vibrant fall colors, crisp and clean air and active buffalo herds.

And there’s nothing quite like the stark beauty of winter with cozy fires, snowshoeing and winter trails.

Custer State Park holds breathtaking sights all year round. Couples can enjoy the first hint of green and baby wildlife in the spring. Summer showcases

TO BOOK YOUR TRIP TO CUSTER STATE PARK, VISIT CUSTERRESORTS.COM OR CALL 1 (888) 875-0001

FUN FACTS ABOUT CUSTER STATE PARK: • •

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The Game Lodge actually has 13 different levels to it from the basement up and an (inaccessible) tunnel underground.

The Coolidge Store was built for President Coolidge by Minnesota shipbuilders to house White House staff. The roof looks just like the inside of a hull!

Grace Coolidge had a pet raccoon while she stayed at the Game Lodge. Visit the Historical level to see a snapshot of her and the critter.

Custer State Park can be found in two feature films: National Treasure II (Sylvan Lake) and How the West Was Won (parts were filmed around the Wildlife Loop).

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Sweet

RECIPES ELIZABETH LUCILLE PHOTOGRAPHY

AFTER THE WEDDING IS OVER AND NESTING BEGINS, IT'S FUN TO EXPERIMENT AND CREATE YOUR VERY OWN FAMILY RECIPE BOOK. LUCKILY FOR OUR READERS, ANNA ANDACHTER (OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE CAKE LADY IN SIOUX FALLS, SD) PUT TOGETHER THREE BAKED GOODS TO GET YOUR BOOK STARTED.

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OLD WORLD RASPBERRY BARS INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIONS

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¾ C butter

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Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

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1 C packed brown sugar

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Line a 9 x 13 pan with foil and coat with cooking spray.

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1 ½ C flour

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Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

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1 tsp salt

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Add in the rest of the dry ingredients and mix well.

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½ tsp baking soda

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Press ½ of the mixture into the bottom of the foiled pan.

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1 ½ C oats

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Spread raspberry jam evenly over crust.

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1 ¼ C raspberry jam

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Sprinkle with remaining crumb mixture.

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Bake for 25-35 minutes.

LUSCIOUS LEMON BARS INGREDIENTS •

2 C flour

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½ C sifted powdered sugar

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2 Tbs cornstarch

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¼ tsp salt

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¾ C butter

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4 slightly beaten eggs

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1 ½ C sugar

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3 Tbs flour

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1 tsp lemon peel

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¾ C lemon juice

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¼ C half and half or milk

DIRECTIONS •

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

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Line the bottom of 9 x 13 pan with foil and spray with cooking spray.

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In a large bowl combine the 2 cups of flour

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together the eggs, sugar, 3 Tbs flour, lemon peel, lemon juice and half and half or milk.

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Pour filling over hot crust.

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Bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes or until the center is set.

and the ½ cup powdered sugar, cornstarch, and salt.

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Let cool and sift powdered sugar over the top.

Using a pastry blender, cut in butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

For the filling - In a medium bowl, stir

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Cut into bars, cover and store in the refrigerator.

Press mixture into the bottom of pan. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are golden.

CHOCOLATE SIN BARS INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIONS

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6 C Oreo crumbs

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Line 9 x 13 pan with foil.

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½ C melted butter

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For the crust, in a large bowl, combine

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3 oz baker’s chocolate, melted

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12 oz chocolate chips

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1 ⅛ C of a heavy whipping cream

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1 ½ oz softened cream cheese

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¾ C chocolate curls or mini chocolate chips

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and whipping cream for 2 minutes, stopping and stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.

crushed cookies, melted butter and melted chocolate.

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•

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Chill crust while preparing the filling.

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For the filling – Beat cream cheese on high until smooth.

Gradually add melted chocolate mixture to the cream cheese and beat until combined.

Press mixture into bottom of the prepared pan.

In a small bowl, microwave the chocolate

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Spread filling over crust.

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Sprinkle with chocolate curls or mini chocolate chips.

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Refrigerate before cutting.

Newlyweds AT H O M E

CRAIG + KATE HOEKSTRA EMILY MITTON PHOTOGRAPHY

When we met newlyweds Craig and Kate Hoekstra in their Sioux Falls, SD split-level home, they were very much newlyweds. Only four months into their marriage, the couple (Craig an accountant for DGR Engineering, and Kate an attorney for South Dakota Advocacy) could hardly take their eyes off each other, and their love permeated throughout the kitchen as we sat down for our interview. They seemed to have it figured out, with two TVs in their living room (one for sports and one for shows) and a shared appreciation for off-the-wall décor (like a plant that resembles a human). The key to this beautiful union was our favorite: Laughter.

How long have you been together?

What did you do?

Kate: It is two years this past January.

K: He took me out to dinner at Trattoria Fresco in Sioux City, IA and then to a Mannheim Steamroller concert. I swore he was going to take me to a Musketeer’s hockey game or something, so I made sure not to wear heels.

And how did you meet?

K: One of my friends is now married to his cousin, so we met at a going-away party for them.

Craig: We were playing bean bags out in the backyard and weren’t on the same team, but we were next to each other.

K: I was flirting [laughs].

Who asked out who?

K: My friend told me that Craig wanted my number, and I was like, "Okay, matchmaker, whatever, go ahead and give it to him." And then Craig texted me right away. I think I sent him several hints over text, like, "Hey, look what I’m doing right now!" He finally asked me out, and we went on our first date.

How did it go?

K: Pretty good…

[Both laugh] K: Craig was pretty quiet. We were both so nervous that it was pretty silent on the way there. And then we got stuck behind a train right before we got to the restaurant, and I was like, No! C: It was like, Oh shoot, I already ran out of things that I planned to talk about before dinner…

How did the proposal happen?

C: [Looking at Kate] You had work training, so we were coming back, and the next day we were leaving for Argentina – a friend of mine was getting married. We were

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going to be there for about a week, and you had said you didn’t want me to propose in Argentina.

PRIVATE | EXCLUSIVE | INTIMATE

K: I didn’t want to take away from their focus.

C: We got back to Sioux Falls, and you wanted to get your nails done for the trip, so I went to Hy-Vee to pick up some filet mignon.

K: And I told you to get something simple like a frozen pizza.

C: So we were cooking in our most comfortable element in our sweats, and then I think it was right before we ate that I got down on one knee. The ring was in my sweatpants, though, and caught on to the double pocket inside, and I couldn’t get it out, so I was fumbling, and she was like, "What are you doing?"

K: And then he grabbed my right hand, and I was even more like, "What?" So I started pulling my hand away to put out my left hand instead, and he had a look of panic, and I realized I hadn’t said "yes" yet [laughs].

Did you go on a honeymoon right away?

K: Yes, we drove out to San Diego, and then we flew back.

How long of a drive is that? That's pretty ambitious as newlyweds.

K: It ended up being 29 hours.

C: We broke it up into something manageable, like 6-7 hour days.

Penny Tree

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Did you plan where you were going to stop?

K: Yeah, it was so much fun!

How has marriage been thus far?

K: I love it!

C: I do, too.

Did you live in your new home before the wedding?

K: No, but we bought it before and moved in after.

Do you have advice for moving in together?

K: The whole marriage requires patience, you know.

Sometimes Craig will do something, and I’ll be like, "Why did you do that?" It’s because he came from a different place than I did. We’re not the same exact person, so I think just trying to understand where the other person is coming from is important.

What is something you learned about each other when you moved in together?

K: I knew he was laid back, so I wasn’t totally surprised when he was super laid back about getting things done.

But sometimes it will be 9:30 p.m. and I’ll be like, "Hey, 122

I’m hungry, let’s get dinner going!" That’s really the only thing was like, you’re that laid back, huh?

C: I can’t really think of anything…

K: I showed you all of my colors [laughs].

C: Yes, you were very transparent [laughs].

When you moved in, what was the situation?

C: Well, Kate had a house in Sioux City with a lot of stuff, and I was living with my brother in Rock Rapids.

For the majority of the things I think we used hers, and I gave my brother a lot of mine. Plus, Kate's stuff was better than mine [laughs]. A lot of what we have are weddings gifts, too.

K: A lot we’ve gotten after our wedding, like the living room rug.

What is your favorite item you received that you registered for?

K: Probably our knife set. We use that thing every day.

Our Ninja Blender, I love that thing.

What would you advise not to register for?

K: I think we registered for a lot of glasses. We use most

of them, but I don't think we needed to register for as many as we did, because they add up. They take up so much space.

I love your map in the dining room.

How would you describe your style together in your home?

C: You can scratch off places you’ve been on the map once you go to them to show where all you’ve been.

K: I don’t think I necessarily have a style, but I think if it’s quirky and it makes me happy, we kind of have to get it. Like our animal plates Craig got me when I thought he was going to propose… [laughs] What are other quirky items are your favorites?

C: Ooh, like the ginseng plant that we got at Ikea. When we spotted it, we realized it looked like a person.

K: We laughed so hard! I think the whole way home from Minneapolis we would look at it and just start laughing. So I think if it puts a smile on our face, that’s our style.

K: Yeah, that was a bachelorette gift, and then we got the corkboard and frame at Hobby Lobby.

Do you travel often?

K: We like "mini-cations," as we call them. We’ll take off for Minneapolis , Omaha, Des Moines…

Or big vacations, too. I actually asked Craig to go to Jamaica after five days of dating.

Really? Oh my gosh!

K: [Laughs] Yeah, we went on the trip about six months into our relationship to Montego Bay. It was definitely a learning experience to travel together for the first time.

So things moved pretty fast.

Is there a particular item that's special in your home?

K: Yes. Clearly not fast enough, because I was hoping for a ring before that.

C: The flowers from our first date. She knew enough to save them.

Do you have different ways of communicating?

K: Oh, yeah! The flowers from our first date! I saved them and felt so creepy. We have a date box, too. Last year for Christmas I got him 12 dates, so every month we open one and it has ideas like going to a movie, stargazing, and a dart night at a bar.

K: We’re definitely different. I talk and won’t stop talking, and then he doesn’t start talking, so it’s just me go-go-go until I’m like, "Why aren’t you saying anything?!"

C: I need time to process it and think about what I need or want to say and convey.

REAL WEDDING ONLINE

Do you have advice for other couples?

K: I think the most important thing in our relationship to keep us grounded is to make sure we have fun in whatever we do. We get serious sometimes, but we definitely have our dance parties while we’re cooking dinner.

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send each other ideas for dinner that night.

Do you go out to eat often?

hanging out without having to put on a good face, just your everyday "Monday night" face, and that he’ll love me no matter what.

K: I would so much rather sit in my sweatpants and cook dinner with Craig.

What is your final advice for newlyweds?

How are you alike and how are you different?

K: One rule we have is that we don’t go to bed separate, we go together.

Do you cook a lot?

C: We both like to relax and take it easy.

C: Yes, chili is our go-to. Beef and broccoli are always good. We just had this chicken Pad Thai with kelp noodles.

K: I feel like we both mesh together so well that I can’t even see the separation.

K: It was so good! We love experimenting. I got him on Pinterest now, and I’m his only follower, so we’ll just

What is your favorite part about being married?

K: I love coming home to him every night and just

What is your favorite thing about each other?

K: He’s so kind-hearted. He would never say a bad word about anybody.

C: There’s a lot. It’s between loving how goofy and fun she is, and she also has the biggest heart and just loves to make me happy.

wedding and lifestyle photography

annieotzenphotography.com

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BOL D PREF ERRED VEN D OR

Vendor Guide >> BRIDAL BOUTIQUES Dream Dress Express Sioux City, IA Papillion, NE 712.252.0318 dreamdressexpress.com

L’atelier Couture Bridal Minneapolis, MN 612.367.8120 lateliercouturebridal.com

Posh Bridal Couture Minneapolis, MN Nashville, TN 952.249.8000 poshmn.com

White Lace Bridal and Formal Wear Bismarck, ND 701.258.4142 whitelacebridalnd.com

>> CAKES + DESSERTS Amy’s Cupcake Shoppe Hopkins, MN 952.479.7516 amyscupcakeshoppe.com

The Cake Lady Sioux Falls, SD 605.610.9604 thecakeladysf.com

D’Amico Catering Minneapolis, MN 612.238.4444 damicocatering.com

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Habitué Coffeehouse & Cakes to Remember Le Mars, IA 712.546.4424 habituecoffee.com

>> CATERING Custer State Park Resort Custer, SD 605.255.4672 custerresorts.com

D’Amico Catering Minneapolis, MN 612.238.4444 damicocatering.com

Gorecki Alumni Center University of North Dakota Grand Forks, ND 701.777.2611 thegorecki.com

Holiday Inn Express & Event Center Brandon, SD 605.582.2901 brandon-express.com

Holiday Inn Rushmore Plaza Rapid City, SD 605.399.7039 rushmoreplaza.com

Holiday Inn Sioux Falls City Centre Sioux Falls, SD 605.330.0457 sfcchotel.com

The Homestead at Prairie Berry Winery Hill City, SD 877.226.9453 prairieberry.com/thehomestead

Minervas IA & SD 605.394.9505 minervas.net

Prairie Berry East Bank Sioux Falls, SD 605.496.7175 prairieberry.com/eastbank

Washington Pavilion Sioux Falls, SD 605.367.7397 ext. 2345 washingtonpavilion.org

>> CINEMATOGRAPHY Acowsay Cinema Minneapolis, MN 612.244.3597 acowsay.com

PINStudios Sioux Falls, SD 605.376.5716 pinstudios.media

>> DESTINATIONS Bayfield & the Apostle Islands Bayfield, WI 715.779.3335 bayfieldweddings.com

Custer State Park Resort Custer, SD 605.255.4672 custerresorts.com

>> DJ + ENTERTAINMENT Pinnacle Productions Sioux Falls, SD 605.376.5716 pinnacleprodj.com

>> EVENT STYLING + COORDINATING Black Hills Receptions & Rentals Rapid City, SD 605.342.8888 blackhillsreceptions.com

Denae Brennan Weddings & Events Rochester, MN 507.272.4292 denaebrennan.com

Gathered. Boutique Rentals & Events Fargo, ND 701.412.3782 gatheredrentalsandevents.com

Lace & Brass Events Bayfield, WI 715.600.1822 laceandbrassevents.com

Rosetree Weddings & Events Minneapolis, MN 612.345.4325 rosetreeevents.com

>> FLORAL Bella Rosa Floral Design Sioux Falls, SD 605.376.3448 bellarosafloral.com

Blue Barn Event Floral Fargo, ND 701.680.1720 bluebarneventfloral.com

Kindred Blooms Minneapolis, MN 612.327.1481 kindredblooms.com

M Flower Studio New Richmond, WI 651.777.6260 mflowerstudio.com

Rison Design Minneapolis, MN 651.246.7378 risondesign.com

Sadie’s Couture Floral & Event Styling Grand Forks, ND 701.317.3255 sadiesfloralnd.com

>> HEALTH + BEAUTY

Sadie’s Couture Floral & Event Styling Grand Forks, ND 701.317.3255 sadiesfloralnd.com

The Beauty Room Sioux Falls, SD 605.321.1177 beautybykat.com

Timeless Wedding & Event Rental Rapid City, SD 605.342.8966 timelessweddingandevents.com

Faces by Laura Grand Forks, ND 701.595.6763 facesbylaurae.com

SM Hair + Makeup Minneapolis, MN 763.439.9161 smmakeupinc.com

Vanessen’s Hair Design Sioux Falls, SD 605.335.7900 vanessenshairdesign.com

>> HOTEL + LODGING Custer State Park Resort Custer, SD 605.255.4672 custerresorts.com

Holiday Inn Express & Event Center Brandon, SD 605.582.2901 brandon-express.com

Holiday Inn Rushmore Plaza Rapid City, SD 605.399.7039 rushmoreplaza.com

Holiday Inn Sioux Falls City Centre Sioux Falls, SD 605.330.0457 sfcchotel.com

>> JEWELRY Borsheims Fine Jewelry & Gifts Omaha, NE 800.642.GIFT borsheims.com

Riddle’s Jewelry Midwest 800.741.7609 riddlesjewelry.com

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>> MENSWEAR Tip Top Tux Midwest 800.831.0902 tttux.com

White Lace Bridal and Formal Wear Bismarck, ND 701.258.4142 whitelacebridalnd.com

AENDEE Fargo, ND 701.261.8816 aendee.com

>> PHOTOGRAPHY Annie Otzen Photography 507.351.7381 annieotzenphotography.com

B. Photography 605.660.1449 bphotography-sd.com

Chelsey Photography 605.940.5251 chelsphoto.com

Emily Mitton Photography 605.941.5736 emilymitton.com

Glasser Images 701.250.2190 glasserimages.com

Haley Frost Creative 218.303.5710 haleyfrostcreative.com

Hanzlik Studio 605.680.3913 hanzlikstudio.com

Kelly Birch Photography 651.336.1659 kellybirch.com

Kylene Fitzsimmons Creative Studio 701.426.4887 kylenefitzsimmons.com

Mist and Moonlight Photography 605.390.6454 mistandmoonlight.com

Natural Escape Photography 605.641.0498 naturalescapephoto.com

Sarah Ann Photography 712.635.7084 sarahann.photography

Elizabeth Lucille Photography 605.951.2621 facebook.com/elizabethlucillephoto

Emily Swan Photography 605.212.3469 emilyswanphotography.com

>> REGISTRY Borsheims Fine Jewelry & Gifts Omaha, NE 800.642.GIFT borsheims.com

>> RESTAURANTS Amy’s Cupcake Shoppe Hopkins, MN 952.479.7516 amyscupcakeshoppe.com

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Custer State Park Resort Custer, SD 605.255.4672 custerresorts.com

D’Amico Catering Minneapolis, MN 612.238.4444 damicocatering.com

Habitué Coffeehouse & Cakes to Remember Le Mars, IA 712.546.4424 habituecoffee.com

The Homestead at Prairie Berry Winery Hill City, SD 877.226.9453 prairieberry.com/thehomestead

Minervas IA & SD 605.394.9505 minervas.net

Prairie Berry East Bank Sioux Falls, SD 605.496.7175 prairieberry.com/eastbank

Washington Pavilion Sioux Falls, SD 605.367.7397 ext. 2345 washingtonpavilion.org

>> RETAIL + RENTALS Black Hills Receptions & Rentals Rapid City, SD 605.342.8888 blackhillsreceptions.com

Borsheims Fine Jewelry & Gifts Omaha, NE 800.642.GIFT borsheims.com

Confetti Creative Co. Aberdeen, SD 605.228.5986 confetticr.co

Gathered. Boutique Rentals & Events Fargo, ND 701.412.3782 gatheredrentalsandevents.com

Timeless Wedding & Event Rental Rapid City, SD 605.342.8966 timelessweddingandevents.com

La Tavola Fine Linen Rental Napa, CA 707.257.3358 latavolalinen.com

Rudy's Event Rentals St. Paul, MN 651.373.5501 rudyseventrentals.com

West Elm National 1.888.922.4119 westelm.com

>> STATIONERY Confetti Creative Co. Aberdeen, SD 605.228.5986 confetticr.co

Kylene Fitzsimmons Creative Studio Bismarck, ND 701.426.4887 kylenefitzsimmons.com

>> VENUES Black Hills Receptions & Rentals Rapid City, SD 605.342.8888 blackhillsreceptions.com

Custer State Park Resort Custer, SD 605.255.4672 custerresorts.com

D’Amico Catering Minneapolis, MN 612.238.4444 damicocatering.com

Gorecki Alumni Center University of North Dakota Grand Forks, ND 701.777.2611 thegorecki.com

The Greenfield Barn New Richmond, WI 651.249.4500 thegreenfieldbarn.com

Holiday Inn Express & Event Center Brandon, SD 605.582.2901 brandon-express.com

The Homestead at Prairie Berry Winery Hill City, SD 877.226.9453 prairieberry.com/thehomestead

Loring Social Minneapolis, MN 612.238.4444 damicocatering.com/cateringvenues

Minervas IA & SD 605.394.9505 minervas.net

Penny Tree Events Parker, SD 605.360.5414 visitpennytree.com

Prairie Berry East Bank Sioux Falls, SD 605.496.7175 prairieberry.com/eastbank

Summit Events Hall Sioux Falls, SD 605.261.3586 summiteventshall.com

Washington Pavilion Sioux Falls, SD 605.367.7397 ext. 2345 washingtonpavilion.org

Holiday Inn Rushmore Plaza Rapid City, SD 605.399.7039 rushmoreplaza.com

Holiday Inn Sioux Falls City Centre Sioux Falls, SD 605.330.0457 sfcchotel.com

A Milestone Paper Co. Burnsville, MN 651.492.6977 amilestonepaperco.com

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Real Advice BRI DES , G RO OMS + VE N D ORS

UND GORECKI ALUMNI CENTER

B L ACK H I L L S R ECEP TIONS & RE N TAL S

CL O U D N INE S TU DIO S PHO TO G R A PHY

C A DEY R E I S NE R W E DDIN GS

"Finalize wedding details 2-3 weeks out from your wedding. You will feel calm and at ease that everything is taken care of.

Your wedding coordinator will be able to assist with your day-of timeline to ensure everything is going according to schedule."

HOL IDAY INN SIOUX FALLS CIT Y CENTRE

“A quick and easy way to make your reception stand out is to add table settings to your décor. Table settings make your space look more lush and polished. Bring it all together with a lot of greenery and candles to add romantic lighting.”

ME L I S SA S MI T H A N N IE O T Z E N PHO TO G R A PHY

N AT U R A L E S C A PE PHO TO G R A PH Y

"When making an itinerary or planning for your big day, set aside a lot of time for photography. You'll want those photos to look back on down the road, and the more time you set aside, the more amazing moments can be captured.”

TH E B EAUT Y RO OM

WAS H I NG TON PAVI L ION

T HE PHO TO G R A PH Y S HOPPE

A L LYS ON K A S C H

J E F F S A MP S ON PHO TO G R AHY

“The relationships we build last a lifetime, just like your memories you make on your wedding day. Be sure you have a connection with your vendors, ensuring your special day runs seamlessly and beautifully!"

T I M EL ESS WEDDING & EVENT R ENTAL C A DEY R E I S NE R W E DDI NG S

"Know your guest list. The Holiday Inn City "Plan your bridal hair and makeup trial Centre can create a beautiful-small intimate on the date of a fitting. That way you can reception for 90 guests, or a large-dramatic see the total look in advance and tweak wedding for up to 400 guests." elements if needed."

"Before you start planning and booking vendors, talk about your budget with anyone who is contributing to the payment of the day. As uncomfortable as it can be, it’s better to have the conversation before the planning officially begins to avoid any conflict."

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HOL IDAY INN E X PRESS & SUIT ES- B R AND ON

"Whether it's in a wide-open green field of a city park, under the canopy of a giant cottonwood, or in a cherished garden at a family home, by renting a clean, white arbor and some simple, white folding chairs, we can transform any outdoor location into an intimate and beautiful place to exchange vows."

The Holiday Inn Rushmore Plaza

Your Destination for “I Do! ” Wedding ceremonies, receptions, rehearsal dinners, gift opening brunches, sleeping room blocks, gorgeous décor, incredible menus…we do it all.

HOLIDAY INN RAPID CITY – RUSHMORE PLAZA 505 N FIFTH STREET 605.399.7039 | Sales & Catering sales@rushmoreplaza.com

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THE RINGS THAT DELIVER YES!

FOR OVER 100 YEARS. From one of America’s largest independent jewelry stores.

You have a thousand reasons to say YES! The ring you’ve always dreamed of makes a thousand and one. Borsheims is the Midwest destination for engagement rings in the timeless styles that spark the over-the-top reaction Borsheims has always been known for.

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