2014
Wedding Guide
Wedding venues plentiful in Fillmore County……page 3 Tienter-Ertl couple to celebrate true small town wedding……page 6 Johnson dazzled by fireworks engagement……page 7
January 13, 2014 Special Section
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2014 Bridal Directory
Lanesboro Community Memorial Center
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The best dance floor in SE MN!
Quality Service with a Personal Touch
Lanesboro, MN 507-467-3722
Jana Olson Photography
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www.toadrunnerexpress.synthasite.com
Letterwerks Sign City LLC
Crestwood Country Cabin
Wedding Invites, Save The Dates, Koozies & Much More!
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The Club - Bar & Veterans Organization
Spring Valley, MN ~ 507-346-2804 Chatfield, MN ~ 507-867-4272 Dodge Center ~ 507-374-6440 www.sunshinefoodstores.com
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Engagement, Outdoor Weddings, Family, Kids & Babies
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Mabel Area Community Center Perfect for showers, reunions, and wedding receptions
Mabel, MN 507-493-5299 www.cityofmabel.com
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Spring Valley, MN 507-346-2579
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Weddings/Dances PROUDLY done since 1998!
The Creamery Pizza & Ice Cream Great for Rehearsal Dinners Seats up to 100
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Catering to your needs Weddings & Special Events
Preston, MN 1-800-552-2512 www.barnresort.com
Harmony Foods Preston Foods Rushford Foods
Heather Kleiboer Photography
Stumpy’s Restaurant & Bar
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Party success is just a rental away
Decorah, IA 563-382-2351
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The Old Barn Resort
Rushford, MN ~ 507-864-7214 www.thecreamery.com
We tailor to your order
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Fountain, MN 507-251-6372 www.studio-a-photography.com
Decorah, IA 563-735-5809 www.wwwinery.com
Decorah Rental
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Specializing in wedding photography
Karaoke DJ Joe
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Harmony, MN • 507-886-2225 Preston, MN • 507-765-2465 Rushford, MN • 507-864-2878
Preston, MN 815-275-2360
Spring Valley, MN 507-346-1979
Harmony, MN 507-886-2922 • 507-438-7802 www.karaokedjjoe.com
Wedding ceremonies, bridal showers and rehearsal dinners
Serenity Within Massage
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Everything from food preparation to full service
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Spring Valley, MN 507-202-3961 www.PepperJackPics.com
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Studio-A-Photography
Ody’s Country Meats & Catering
Winneshiek Wildberry Winery
Get a massage for you and your spouse-to-be!
Kegs, Wine, Champagne, Liquor
www.crestwoodcountrycabin.vpweb.com
Preston, MN 507-765-2205 www.prestonservicemen.com
Burr Oak, IA 563-419-5784 facebook.com/partyisland2go
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Pepperjack Photography
Party Island Let us help plan your perfect wedding or party!
Party room and kitchen available for special events
Great place to stay for guests or a wedding party
TJ’s Liquor
Preston, MN • 507-254-1053 507-765-4517 • 507-261-9335
Sunshine Foods
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Ostrander, MN 507-251-5871
Rushford, MN 507-421-3187
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Karaoke, Music Video, Projector for video or photos
Canton, MN • 507-743-2204 Harmony, MN • 507-886-6922 www.firstsoutheastbank.com
Decorah, IA 563-387-0330 www.letterwerks.com
Let us help with your special day!
{
Toad Runner Express
First Southeast Bank
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Children, Seniors, Families, Engagements & Weddings
} Unveiled!
Weddings. Seniors. Families
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Mabel, MN 507-456-6473
www.heatherkleiboerphotography.shutterfly.com
Spring Valley Greenhouse & Floral, Inc.
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Call for info on our wedding rentals!
Spring Valley, MN 507-346-7440
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Catering to you
}
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Rushford, MN 507-864-7156 www.stumpys.net
Preston Liquor, LLC Wide Assortment of Wines, Beers & Spirits
Preston, MN 507-765-2565
}
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wedding guide
Call the FCJ at 507-765-2151 to advertise or offer news tips!
2014
Monday, January 13, 2014
Wedding venues plentiful in Fillmore County By Jackie Horsman As we all know, but sometimes forget, Fillmore County is home to some of the most breathtaking scenery in Minnesota. Nestled in the Root River Valley, we are privy to astounding bluffs, hardwood forests and historic areas that can only be found in one place…our beloved Fillmore County. Summer months boast of rippling waters from the Root River, long days with beautiful sunsets, lush foliage and the soothing sound of quiet in the evenings. As winter arrives, the land turns into a snowglobe with icicled trees, delicate snowflakes and mid-
day sunlight that dances in the snow. Fillmore County is truly one of the most treasured places to live, love and raise a family. That’s exactly how Craig and Michelle (Jones) Hanson felt when planning their daughter Erica’s wedding. Both Craig and Michelle grew up in southeast Minnesota and still own a home in Lanesboro, although they now reside in the Twin Cities area. The Hansons were able to plan an entire wedding using a picturesque venue in Fillmore County and almost every detail was contributed to by local vendors. “There are probably a hun-
Outback Ranch between Rushford and Houston provides wedding goes with the true beauty of a Bluff Country wedding. Photo submitted by Outback Ranch
We have a
party room & kitchen
for those special events.
• weddings • • Birthdays • • Anniversaries •
Ask about off-site bartending for weddings.
call Bill at 765-2205 to Book the kitchen and/or party room www.prestonservicemen.com • preston, mn
Weddings/Dances PROUDLY done since 1998!
Anytime! Anyplace! Anywhere! JOE AFSETH www.karaokedjjoe.com Home & Fax 507-886-2922
Cell 507-438-7802
dred wedding venues in Fillmore County,” explained Michelle, “Every place in the county has amazing views.” The Hansons decided on Berwood Hill Inn, located in between Preston and Lanesboro, as it had everything they were looking for. There was a beautiful barn, gardens and a great staff. From there, the mother of the bride decided they would use local vendors and found it to be more cost efficient than hiring in from Rochester or the Twin Cities. “We used Old Tyme Café out of Chatfield for the catering, Jolene Goodsell out of Stewartville for photography, The Inn in Preston for accomodations and R&M Amish Tours provided transportation to and from, we also had the Groom’s Diner at the Branding Iron, beverages came from the liquor store in Lanesboro…we knew local vendors would take care of us personally in small towns,” Hanson shared. Many of the wedding party guests even stayed right in Lanesboro at various bed and breakfasts, arriving on Friday and staying through Sunday while making the wedding an event of festivities. Guests were able to enjoy the bike trails, Amish tours, trap shoot at the Lanesboro Gun Club and various other activities Fillmore County is known for. Michelle stressed the overall cost of the wedding event was far less than if they had decided on a Rochester or Twin Cities location, not to mention more beautiful than the other two places could imagine being. Her son-in-law and daughter, Mike and Erica Dornfeld, were left with not just a memorable wedding day, but a lifetime of stories to share. You can paint your special moments right in your own backyard too. While there are so many beautiful locations to choose from, here are a few to get you started. Whether you are looking for an outdoor venue, an indoor venue or a place that showcases uniqueness, Fillmore County can accommodate breathtaking views, impressionable memories and talented local vendors, all while being budget friendly. Outback Ranch Just outside of Rushford and west of Houston, nestled in the Yucatan Valley, lies Outback Ranch. Known for its horse trails, hiking, snowmobiling and outdoor entertainment, Outback Ranch is also perfect for an indoor or outdoor wedding as well as the reception. The banquet hall comfortably seats 240, but you will be amazed when you see that it can be opened to the outdoors to accommodate even more
FILLMORE COUNTY JOURNAL
guests. Beyond that, the stunning views of the surrounding bluffs are what has made Bluff Country famous. Weddings can take place by the stables, in the banquet hall or at various locations throughout the ranch. There is an outdoor amphitheater with a stage ready to set up entertainment for your guests. They offer various options for lodging all within the property as well. Reservations can be made by calling 507-896-5550. Niagara Cave Who knew, right? An adventurous couple or a couple in touch with nature may want to consider Niagara Cave for their nuptials. There is a wedding chapel within the cave, 100 feet below ground, that has a stunning overlook. While this is a smaller venue which comfortably seats 12 and has standing room for an additional 15
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guests, it is truly magnificent and memorable. Located on the first level of the cave, access requires the descent of 100 stairs and what lies at the bottom is astounding. If you need a little more room, you can take advantage of a covered pavilion beyond the entrance to the cave which can also double as a reception area. Located outside of Harmony, the cave has long been known as one of Fillmore County’s gems. Niagara Cave’s season is April-October and reservations can be made by emailing niagara@harmonytel.net or calling 1-800-8376606. Berwood Hill Inn This estate is located between Preston and Lanesboro, in the heart of Fillmore County. The bed and breakfast offers up spa services, incredible gardens, a See VENUES Page 5
Niagara Cave, located in Harmony, Minn., has a unique wedding chapel 100 feet underground. Photo submitted by Niagara Cave
“the Best Dance Floor in Southeastern Minnesota”
Lanesboro Community memoriaL Center
For your Wedding Reception & Dance Lanesboro’s Modern Community Center is an unusually attractive location for weddings, receptions and dances. It houses a ~4,300 square foot Auditorium/Gymnasium ~1,500 square foot Community Room & Kitchen ~850 square foot meeting room ~ fully furnished, handicapped accessible and air conditioned throughout. ~ Equipped with wet bar, tables & chairs. The Gazebo in the Park is also available for weddings.
Stop in anD take a look!
For more information & to make a reservation.
Call 507-467-3722.
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wedding guide
FILLMORE COUNTY JOURNAL
2014
Courtesy of www.marthastewartweddings.com
Let us help with your special day!
Monday, January 13, 2014
The Official Legal Newspaper for Fillmore County
Courtesy of www.marthastewartweddings.com
Kegs • Wine • Champagne • Liquor Special Event Pricing Available
Delivery Service Available
507-346-1979 507 N. Park Dr., Spring Valley
Party Trays Meat & Cheese Trays Veggie Trays Cookies Open Daily! 7am-9pm 507-346-2804 501 N. Park Drive, Spring Valley, MN 507-867-4272 237 Main St. North, Chatfield, MN 507-374-6440 20 Airport Rd. North Dodge Center, MN www.sunshinefoodstores.com
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wedding guide
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2014 VENUES
Continued from Page 3
beautiful old barn and is readily accessable to almost everything imaginable that is offered in the area. Photo opportunities on your special day are endless on this property as you and your guests indulge in nature.
The staff at Berwood will help you plan your day or weekend wedding by offering you help with local vendors, additional accomodations for guests if needed and plenty of ideas to make your planning process easier. The wedding season for Berwood is generally May-Novem-
Lanesboro’s Eagle Bluff offers couples a pictureesque scene for an outdoor wedding. Photo submitted by Eagle Bluff
For your special day...give us a call! We’ll work with you to get the music you like.
Karaoke • Music Video • Projector for video or photos
DJ Service • 507-251-5871
Todd Hubka, PO Box 64, Ostrander, MN
toadrunnerexpress.synthasite.com
Golf - Restaurant/Bar - Camping www.barnresort.com
A unique country setting a short drive from anywhere for reunions, weddings, meetings, tour groups, or any occasion! · · · · ·
Serving 20 to 250 people Full bar - wine, beer & spirits Full kitchen and wait staff Gorgeous scenery On-site wedding ceremonies
Catering to your needs! Check out the possibilities at www.barnresort.com or 1-800-552-2512 Open end of March – Thanksgiving
Monday, January 13, 2014
ber, however they are unique in offering winter weddings as well. They provide sleigh rides for the winter season with a trip through the woods for s’mores as you enjoy the sounds and sights of owls, deer and more. Call 1-800-803-6748 for more information or to make your reservations. Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center Right in the thick of Fillmore County’s hardwood forests between Fountain and Lanesboro lies Eagle Bluff. Widely known for its environmental education programs, Eagle Bluff also offers outdoor pristine spaces for weddings. Completely immersed in the lush forest and surrounded by nature, Eagle Bluff is a unique place to say “I do.” With indoor offererings in the event of inclement weather, they offer a perfect contingency plan which means less stress on your wedding day. A large dining hall is available for your reception and with onsite catering, it is hard to say no to the ease of planning. All receptions are cozily served buffet style with delectable eats without a large price tag. But that’s not all, accomodations are also available on site for your wedding party and guests making Eagle Bluff an all in one offering. Although 2014 dates are filling quickly, reservations can still be made by calling 507-467-2437. Whether you choose a location listed or find your own gem, Fillmore County offers a plethora of wedding venues. A great way to start is by calling city clerks or tourist centers throughout the county, they are great resources. With so many unique locations to choose from one thing will be certain; your wedding day will be like none other. What a beautiful way to start a lifetime of memories!
Need Copies ? f Let the staf al at the Journ you! office help
color
8.5x11......... 50¢ each
RUSHFORD, MN janaolsonphotography@gmail.com
www.janabeth.com 507.421.3187
Couples Special Buy 1 Massage & Get One
of equal or lesser value as a gift for your significant other
Nancy D. Back
Licensed Massage Therapist
815-275-2360
133 W. Fillmore St. Suite #4, Preston, MN Expires Feb. 28, 2014
Because You And Your Guests Deserve The Best Check out our Full Catering Menu online at www.odyscountrymeats.com We can customize a menu just for you. We offer everything from food preparation to full service.
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136 St. anthony Street, Preston P 507.765.2151 • F 507.765.2468
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The elegance and conveniences of the Berwood Inn make it a great wedding venue in Fillmore County. Photo submitted by Michelle Hanson
Black/White
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FILLMORE COUNTY JOURNAL
Meats & Catering M-F 7-5:30 Sat. 7-12:00 507-346-2579 • 800-660-MEAT 17643 121st Ave. 4.5 miles South of Spring Valley on Hwy 63 www.odyscountrymeats.com
EBT Customers Welcome
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wedding guide
FILLMORE COUNTY JOURNAL
2014
Monday, January 13, 2014
Tienter-Ertl couple to celebrate true small town wedding
everyone--and if you find someone you’re not related to you just might want to confirm with grandma. Lucky for bride-to-be Grace Tienter of Preston, she
By Angie Rodenburg As many people from small towns know it can be difficult to find love in a community where you are related to almost
PRESTON LIQUOR, LLC
Located on Hwy 52 N., Preston, MN • Refrigerated Unit • Wide Assortment of Wines, Beers & Spirits
10% discount on build your own case of wine or liquor.
Call: 507-765-2565
Heather Kleiboer Photography Weddings. Seniors. Families.
507.456.6473 • Find me on Facebook! www.heatherkleiboerphotography.shutterfly.com
Your Wedding
CheCklist speCialists
aWedding Invitations aSave The Dates aCan Koozies aNapkins aBachelorette Party Bling aPersonalized Gifts aRemovable Wall Art
Highway 52, Decorah, IA 563-387-0330 www.letterwerks.com
Party Success is Just a Rental Away • • • • • • • • •
10’ x 20’ & 20’ x 20’ Tents Tent Sides Available Coffee Urns (100 cup) Champagne Fountain Chocolate Fountain (chocolate avail.) Multi Tabletop Chiller Bar Top 8’ x 15” Roasters Tables 6’ or 8’
• • • • • • • • •
60” Round Tables Dunk Tank Sky Dancer Bouncing Castles White/Silver Chairs Portable Gas Grill Beverage Dispensers High Top Tables Feather Banners
Teakwood Dance Floor Available!
Decorah Rental Inc. 1814 State Highway 9 • Decorah, Iowa 52101 (563) 382-2351
met her fiance Marcus while attending Western Technical College in La Crosse, Wis. Between goofing around in classes, studying, and the occasional party, Grace and Marcus developed a great friendship. They bonded over their mutual love for cleaning, promising each other to share their vacuum and mop. They never would have thought that one day they would promise to share their cleaning supplies forever. After being merely friends for a year, Grace and Marcus knew there was something new blossoming in their relationship. A year into dating Grace recalled knowing she wanted to marry Marcus. “He makes me feel happy about everything!” Grace gushed about her fiance. After four more years of dating, Grace’s dream finally became a reality when Marcus popped the question this past September while taking a walk along the Mississippi River in La Crosse. “It was a beautiful, warm night,” Grace recalled. “I was completely taken by surprise! I had given up hope!” said Grace. Despite Grace noticing his racing heart when they hugged, Marcus had managed to keep the proposal a complete surprise. Now that the proposal has been made, Grace has been busy planning for a June wedding. The couple plans to wed at the Tienter family farm in Preston. The farm has a gorgeous view that overlooks Forestville State Park and the Iron Bridge; a unique quality few brides are able to have at their wedding. It is special for Grace that she is able to get married at her childhood home surrounded by friends and family. Grace’s older sisters, Katrina and Jane, also had part of their wedding days at the family farm. Not only is it where the sisters grew up, but it will now be a place where the family’s most treasured memories are made. “I love knowing everyone and everyone knowing me,” Grace said about living and getting married in a small town. “There are multiple generations that know me and my family.” Though it might be quite the change for fiance Marcus, a native of Nina, Wis. to transition from a big city to a small town, he knows that it’s worth it to have Grace take his last name. The first of a lifetime of compromises, I’m sure. The quaint, small town feel that Preston has will only add to the country garden theme that Grace is planning for. Amidst the beautiful gardens planted by her mother and the sea of green grass, blue bridesmaid dresses and blue skies, Grace Tienter will become Mrs. Ertl on June 21-the first day of summer. The first day of a new start to their lives as husband and wife and the start of a new family making roots in a small town.
The FCJ reaches over 12,000 household each week.
Grace and Marcus will be married on the longest day of the year, June 21, 2014. Photo submitted
We know that young couples want a bank they can depend on throughout their married lives; a single bank that can handle all their financial needs.
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We’ll help you set your banking progam to personally fit your financial needs and lifestyles. And, as your needs change over the years, we’ll continue to offer financial assistance and guidance. Stop in today for more information on all the services and programs we offer and to open your new account!
Quality Service with a Personal Touch
111 N Main St Canton MN 507-743-2204 Toll Free 1-877-457-5977
3 Main Ave N Harmony MN 507-886-6922 Toll Free 1-877-886-6922
Lobby: M-Thurs 9-3, F 9-4:30 Drive-up: M-Th 8:30-4, F 8:30-4:30, Sat 9-noon
Lobby: M-Thurs 9-3, F 9-4:30 Drive-up: M-F 8:30-5:30, Sat 9-noon
www.firstsoutheastbank.com
24 Hour ATM •On-line Banking • 24 Hour Telephone Banking
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wedding guide
Call the FCJ at 507-765-2151 to advertise or offer news tips!
2014
Monday, January 13, 2014
Johnson dazzled by fireworks engagement By Barb Jeffers Haeli Johnson’s life changed the day she graduated from Lanesboro High School in 2008. It was not only the fact that she had graduated, but it was also because of who she met at her graduation party. Haeli’s cousin, Jordan Johnson, stopped by the graduation party with some friends on four-wheelers. One of those friends was a man by the name of Clay Anderson. As Clay and Haeli got to know each other, they became closer and eventually became a couple and have been together five years as of January 11, 2014. Clay proposed to Haeli on July 4, 2013 in La Crosse, Wis. while spending a weekend with Haeli’s family. They watched fireworks on the patio of the Marriott by the river and afterwards Clay asked Haeli to go for a walk by the water where the fireworks continued for the couple. As they stood watch-
ing the boats in the river, Clay pulled out “the most beautiful ring” Haeli said, and then he asked “So Hael, do you want this?” Haeli said, “I had instant butterflies” and then asked Clay “Are you kidding or serious?” She then said “YES, yes I do!” Haeli said “The best part was I had no idea that it was coming” and described the proposal as a huge surprise that she will always remember. Following the proposal Haeli and her fiancé went back to the hotel to tell her parents. Haeli looked at both her parents and said, “Clay and I have something to tell you.” As she held her left hand out and exclaimed, “We’re engaged!” her parents were given quite a surprise. Haeli said, “My mom was in shock…all she kept saying was ‘WHAT WHAT oh my goodness’ and my dad got a
• Centerpieces • • Linen Rental • • Onsite Decorating • • Back Drops • • Cupcake Tables • • Many More Items • Consultant: Tammy Brink • 563.419.5784 Email • partyisland2go@gmail.com facebook.com/partyisland2go
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little choked up and said ‘congratulations’ to us.” Haeli then called Clay’s parents and Clay’s mom asked Haeli, “Do you have something to tell me?” giving Haeli the hint that she knew what was coming. Haeli stated Clay’s parents were both very happy for them. Clay and Haeli love being outside on the farm, going out on the pontoon in the summer, fishing, and vacationing. Clay enjoys demoing cars in the summer as well and Haeli likes to help him with that and Haeli enjoys showing her horses at the SEMSCA shows. During winter the couple enjoy snowmobiling together. Haeli Jo Johnson, 23, and Clay Steven Anderson, 26, will be united in marriage on August 30, 2014 at the Rushford Lutheran Church in Rushford, Minn. with a reception and dance to follow at the Omni Center in Onalaska, Wis. Parents of the bride are Todd and Terri Johnson of Lanesboro, Minn. Parents of the groom are Steve and Lisa Anderson of Rushford, Minn. Terri Johnson said that “Haeli and Clay are a perfect match” and said while they were surprised by their engagement only because they hadn’t suspected anything. She and Todd are very happy for them. Terri stated, “They’re good people; they both work hard, set goals and know where they want their future to take them.” Todd and Terri said they look forward to Clay officially joining our family in August even though he is already considered family. The wedding will include six bridesmaids, six groomsmen, two flower girls, four ushers, and four personal attendants. Maid of Honor - Sydney Johnson (Haeli’s sister) Bridesmaids - Dana Anderson (Clay’s sister), Stephanie Anderson (close friend), Alesha Sveen (Haeli’s cousin), Kristin Bunge (close friend), and Nikki Johnson (Haeli’s cousin). Best Man - Drew Anderson (Clay’s brother) Groomsmen - Brady Johnson (Haeli’s brother), Royal Anderson (Clay’s cousin), Kyle Anderson (Clay’s cousin), Luke Anderson (Clay’s cousin), and Wade Colbenson (close friend). Flower girls - Bryndle Faulhaber-Sveen (Haeli’s cousin) and Maycie Anderson (Clay’s niece). Ushers - Jordon Johnson (Haeli’s cousin and Clay’s friend), Adam Sveen (Haeli’s cousin), Dan Boyum (Clay’s close friend), and Wade Anderson (Clay’s cousin). Personal Attendants - Brittany Benson (friend of couple),
FILLMORE COUNTY JOURNAL
Lakyn Lind (friend of couple), Kaleigh Erickson (close friend), and Serena Daley (friend of couple). The colors chosen for the wedding are aqua blue and
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purple. Haeli is very excited for their big day and “to spend the rest of my life with him!” she said. Congratulations Haeli and Clay!
Nearly 14 months later, Haeli Johnson and Clay Anderson will marry August 30, 2014 in Rushford, Minn. The couple was engaged July 4, 2013. Photo by Amber Torgerud
Tractor with wagon available for wedding transportation
Great place for guests or a wedding party to stay, Gift Openings & Bridal Showers!
Crestwood Country Cabin
27315 230th St., Preston, MN • 1/2 Mile West of Preston, off US Hwy 52
www.crestwoodcountrycabin.vpweb.com 507.765.4517 • 507.261.9335 • 507.254.1053
Now booking wedding receptions for 2014 From a small shower to a reunion, an employee meeting to a large wedding reception, the Mabel Area Community Center is your answer! The Banquet Hall seats 300 people comfortably and has a full bar, state-of-the-art kitchen and quality audio system. Linen and glassware rental options are available. Rent the entire facility for $450 or the large meeting room for as little as $60. Other rental options are available.
Mabel Area Community Center 201 Main St. S • Mabel, Minn. • www.cityofmabel.com Call 507-493-5299 to book your event today!
memorable
Let us help to make your event
Wedding Rehearsal Dinners and Bridal Showers For all of your Special Occasions
Seating for up to 100 Also private event room for 50 or less
407 S. Mill St., Rushford, MN
507.864.7214 www.the-creamery.com
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