Rochester MN Area - 2024 Wedding Magazine

Rochester Area

Wedding

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The Best

Vows That Wow!

• venues • gowns • photographers • catering

2024 Connect Media | 507.884.8265 | RochesterWeddingMagazine.com

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For more details, contact:

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Rochester Area

Wedding VOLUME 18 ISSUE 1 2024 PUBLISHERS Cindy Schumacher & George Wright Connect Media, LLC CREATIVE DIRECTOR Lindsay Lewis GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Tessa Slisz Lindsay Lewis CONTRIBUTING WRITER Thelma Grimes DIRECTORS OF CUSTOMER HAPPINESS George Wright Cindy Schumacher DISTRIBUTION Connect Media Delivery Service

Rochester Area

Wedding

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For Information: Call/Text: 507-884-8265 or email Hello@ConnectMediaMN.com www.RochesterWeddingMagazine.com Rochester Area Wedding Magazine is published annually by Connect Media, LLC All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

The Rochester Area Wedding Magazine does not necessarily endorse the claims or contents of advertising or editorial materials.

Innovative

& Noteworthy

Pinnacle Catering delivers the highest quality of food and drinks with unmatched selections and service. We promise exceptional world-class service and attention to every detail.

2112 2nd St SW Suite 100, Rochester, MN 55902 | 507.258.4633 | PinnacleCateringMN.com

For Your Own Historic Occasion WE OFFER • Event spaces for all occasions • Unforgettable historical buildings • Gorgeous natural settings • Fully customizable packages starting as low as $1,600 for your entire wedding

Features

TOUR THE VENUE TODAY! Call 507-282-9447 or email events@olmstedhistory.com 1195 West Circle Dr. SW, Rochester, MN

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10 Tips for a Stress-Free Wedding Reception

12

Vineyard Weddings Offer Romance & Rustic Charm

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Checklist To Plan Your Perfect Wedding

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Top 10 Reasons To Consider A Golf Course Venue

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The Farm-to-Wedding Food Scene

30

How To Write Vows That Wow

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5 Tips For A Fabulous Rehearsal Dinner

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Wedding Party Gifts

54

Honeymoon Ideas For Every Type Of Couple

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Real Wedding Story – Danielle & Pat

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How To Choose The Perfect Wedding Venue

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Real Wedding Story – Samantha & Luke

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Real Wedding Story – Laura & Michael

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Best Wedding Vendors - Rochester MN Area

TWO LOCATIONS: DOWNTOWN PEACE PLAZA ACROSS FROM TRADER JOES

10 Tips for a

STRESS-FREE

WEDDING RECEPTION If the moment the officiant announces the happy couple to the world is the highlight of a wedding day, then the wedding reception is surely a close second. Naturally a bride or groom wants everything about the big day to go perfectly, but with the many moving parts involved in a reception, it’s often viewed as the one part of the wedding where things can go wrong.

Following these ten tips can help ensure that your wedding day goes off without a hitch (except for the “getting hitched” part!)

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Consider full-service Many wedding venues offer options of full-service catering, decorating, entertainment, etc. While the price is usually higher to have one person handle the entire event for you, it’s usually worth it. Acting as your own general contractor of sorts, and planning out everything from hors d’oeuvres to the guest book can be exhausting. If it works for your budget, and if you don’t want to be too involved behind the scenes at your own reception, then consider going full-service.

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Keep expenses realistic You may be tempted to go overboard with reception planning. After all, you want all of your guests to be as happy with the day as you are. But, nothing will bring you down more during your reception than counting costs in the back of your mind. Your attention should be on your new partner and your family and friends, not worrying about running out of free alcohol. There’s nothing worse than hoping the wedding gift cash will help pay for the party. Making reception plans based on a realistic budget will help keep your event stress-free.

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Have options for food You might think it’s easier to have just two or even only one option for food at the reception, but consider going with more options if it works with your venue and caterer. The more options for food at the wedding, the happier the wedding attendees are, and the more successful the whole day can be. While beef or chicken are the staples, be sure to consider vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other options. It’s a great way to let your guests know that you’re thinking of their dietary needs, and want them to have a good time too.

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Be careful with seating

Preview the entertainment

Let’s face it, you already know your spouse’s uncle Larry shouldn’t be talking politics with your cousin Diane, and so on. It’s best for everyone if those two are seated as far away as possible. It’s your day, and you control the seating chart, so feel free to use those powers for good. We all have those certain family members who are invited basically just because they’re a relative. Got a chatty aunt? Pair her up at a table with your spouse’s hard-of-hearing sister. You never know, you might just be kicking off a lifelong friendship between the two.

If you’re hiring a band or a DJ to play your wedding reception, ask for an opportunity to see them live. You’re not necessarily inviting yourself to someone else’s wedding reception, but just ask if you can just peak into the venue and see them in action.

Likely they’ve already shared with you a YouTube highlight reel, but there’s nothing wrong with asking to see for yourself. Many DJ services have a number of different DJs working for them and you don’t know which one you’ll get until they show up. If you’re promised Johnny Rocker and end up with Suzy Sad Songs, you’ll wish you had checked ahead of time.

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Double-check the playlist Speaking of music, keeping the audience in mind will help avoid a potentially embarrassing situation. The music of choice of the wedding party may not be the favorite songs of the grandparents in attendance, and that’s OK. But, consider the grandparents (and parents, aunts, uncles, children, etc.) when choosing dance songs.

It’s OK to make a rule with your DJ that no “adult language” songs be played until after a certain time to ensure that both the old folks and the young kids have left for the evening.

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Keep parents busy If there’s one thing that stresses couples out on wedding days, it’s the parents. Consider that a busy parent is less likely to want to meddle in too many plans or make too many lastminute recommendations. Assign each parent (or parent figure) a project, and tell them it’s really important to you that the one thing they’re in charge of goes well. That gives each parent enough to do to keep them out of your way, and also lets them feel like they’re contributing as an integral part of the event.

Rochester Area Wedding Magazine, 2024

Get pictures While official wedding photographer albums are great, you’ll also want to remember the day through the eyes of your wedding attendees. Encourage everyone to take pictures and share them, whether through social media, or emailing them to you after the fact. It’s a great way to catch all the action you may have missed while you were deep in wedded bliss. A catchy hashtag can encourage social sharing of the photos and allow you to find them on social media after the event.

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Enjoy in moderation It probably doesn’t need to be said, but we’ve seen enough weddings that we know—it needs to be said. We’ve all been to that wedding where the bride is no longer allowed to hold the microphone because she drank enough to out-swear the old men in the room, or the wedding where the groom is in the back trying to sober up with a cup of coffee. While those receptions certainly may have seemed fun to the wedding party at the time, there were likely a lot of people rolling their eyes in the room and questioning the maturity of everyone involved.

F OREVER STARTS H ERE.

Twelve Ten Photography

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Stick to the timeline The day is all about you, and everyone there knows it. But, everyone also knows there’s a certain expectation of the timing of events. When the reception is supposed to begin, it needs to begin. While it’s great for the wedding party to take a limo cruise from the wedding to the reception, be sure to keep your guests in mind before you make a stop off at your favorite bar along the way. The reception venue is likely already filled with people expecting food and refreshments and the presence of the happy couple.

RochesterWeddingMagazine.com

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Vineyard Weddings Offer Romance & Rustic Charm

Southeast Minnesota is known for its rolling hills, lush greenery, and picturesque landscapes. Choosing a vineyard wedding venue in this region will provide a stunning backdrop for your special day. The natural beauty of the vineyards and surrounding countryside will create a romantic and enchanting atmosphere. There are wonderful options in Cannon Falls, Spring Valley, Red Wing and Pepin Wisconsin.

Rustic Charm: Vineyard wedding venues often have a rustic and charming ambiance that is perfect for couples seeking a unique and intimate setting. The combination of the vineyard’s natural elements, such as wooden barrels and grapevines, with the surrounding countryside, creates a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Wine Tasting Experience: One of the major advantages of choosing a vineyard wedding venue is the opportunity to incorporate a wine tasting experience into your celebration. Many vineyards offer wine tastings as part of their wedding packages, allowing you and your guests to sample a variety of locally produced wines. This adds a fun and interactive element to your wedding day and allows you to showcase the region’s wine culture.

Professional Staff: Vineyard wedding venues typically have experienced and professional staff who are knowledgeable about weddings and events. They can provide guidance and assistance throughout the planning process, ensuring that your wedding day runs smoothly. From coordinating vendors to managing logistics, the venue’s staff will be there to support you every step of the way.

Support Local Businesses: Choosing a vineyard wedding venue in Southeast Minnesota supports local businesses and the local economy. By selecting a local venue, you are contributing to the community and helping to sustain the region’s wine industry. It’s a meaningful way to support local artisans and producers.

Memorable Experience: A vineyard wedding will create a truly memorable experience for you and your guests.

The combination of the region’s scenic beauty, rustic charm, and personalized touches will make your wedding day unforgettable. It’s a unique and romantic setting that will leave a lasting impression on everyone involved.

Breathtaking RED WING, MN VENUE

Perfect location for weddings, grooms dinners and corporate events!

Rustic charm • Natural beauty • A one-of-a-kind experience for you and your guest Accommodation Options: Red Wing, MN has a range of accommodation options available for you and your guests.

From charming bed and breakfasts to luxury hotels, there are plenty of choices to suit different preferences and budgets. This makes it convenient for your guests to stay close to the vineyard wedding venue.

Local Attractions: Red Wing, MN is a vibrant and charming town with plenty of local attractions to explore.

From historic sites to outdoor activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Your guests can make a weekend out of your wedding celebration and explore the area before or after the wedding.

651-388-8849 • 3572 Old Tyler Rd, Red Wing, MN 55066 • falconervineyards.com

Gather & Celebrate AT GRAHAM PARK

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We are committed to making your event a success, providing an unparalleled level of customer service and professionalisms—all at an affordable price.

Some consider Graham Park the hidden gem in Olmsted County with three recently renovated wedding venues; Floral Hall, Crawford Hall and Aune Hall.

1403 3rd Ave SE, Rochester, MN 55904 507-328-7059 • grahampark@olmstedcounty.gov grahampark.org I RochesterWeddingMagazine.com

Rochester Area Wedding Magazine, 2024

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CHECKLIST

to Plan Your Perfect Wedding

We’ve all been to weddings that have felt “effortless and fabulous.” The secret behind those seamless celebrations is that they were thoughtfully and thoroughly planned…from the seemingly insignificant details through the biggest decisions. Here at Rochester Area Weddings, it’s our mission to take the guesswork out of the process, and to help you create the wedding of your dreams.

S

While your wedding should be as individual as you are, we’ve compiled a general checklist to help you start planning the celebration to mark the first day of the rest of your life!

12 MONTHS BEFORE □ Settle on a budget. More than any other single factor, the budget for your big day will make all of the decisions that follow that much simpler. Be sure to factor in the money you and your partner plan to spend, as well as any contributions from family. □ Decide the size. Once you’ve established a budget, the next step is to decide how large you want your celebration to be. You may want to share this day with everyone in your life, but keep in mind that the size of your guest list directly affects how over-thetop you can go on all of the details. □ Bridesmaids and Groomsmen. It’s smart to know who you’d like to invite to join your wedding party well in advance, so those closest to you can plan to be there for you.

□ Location, location, location. Popular wedding venues can book long in advance, so don’t delay on determining the location(s) of the ceremony and the reception. Find your spot and reserve your date. If they’re not in the same vicinity, you’ll want to allow plenty of time for guests to get from one place to the next. □ DIY or hire a planner. Believe it or not, 12 months in advance is not too soon to start researching caterers, florists, photographers, bands, etc. As with venues, the top pros can be booked long in advance. An experienced wedding planner can be a big help in recommending the best vendors to fit your budget.

6-9 MONTHS BEFORE □ Spread the word. People often plan vacations and other events far in advance, so you’ll want to make sure to send save-the-date cards to the family and friends who will make your day special. □ Say yes to the dress. Finding just the right dress is something that shouldn’t be rushed. Once you do find your dress, plan on several fittings to make sure it’s tailored to fit you just right. And don’t forget the veil! □ Hire vendors. That “effortless and fabulous” wedding we alluded to in the intro often comes down to this step. Make sure you get references—then check them. If they’ve overpromised and underdelivered at someone else’s wedding, then keep looking. Once you’ve identified the right photographer and videographer, the right caterer, the right florist, and the right entertainment—book ‘em.

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□ Bridemaids’ dresses. Another detail that can surprise first-time brides is the time required to get your bridesmaids’ dresses ordered and sized. Do this at least six months in advance. □ Gift registries. It’s smart to register with at least three retailers, to give your friends and family a range of choices (of products and prices) that they’re comfortable with—and that you’d love to receive.

3-6 MONTHS BEFORE □ Order Invitations. Finalize the wording and design of your wedding invitations, and make sure to see and touch samples of the paper stock to make sure they have the look and feel you desire. □ It’s all in the timing. Sit down with paper and pencil (or keyboard and mouse) and start planning out how the day will flow. Doing this, from the ceremony itself through the dinner, dancing, and music is a great tool to help you visualize the day—and ensure there are no scheduling snafus. □ The ceremony itself. Meet with the person who will officiate your wedding. This is your day, so it’s critical that you’re comfortable with the details of the ceremony, and that you know exactly what official documents are needed. □ Order the cake. Like other vendors who should be booked far in advance, you’ll want to make sure that the baker you choose (after several tastings, of course) is available to create the cake for your big day. □ The rings, please. To make sure the rings you select are a style you’re comfortable spending the rest of your life with, and to provide ample time for customizing (sizing, engraving, etc.), three months out is a safe time frame.

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□ Destination: honeymoon! Whether you plan to travel to some exotic locale or keep it simple, now’s the time to start mapping this out. The last thing you want is to be tripped up by last-minute details—like a passport and vaccinations.

1-2 MONTHS BEFORE

□ Send invitations. There are many conflicting “rules of thumb” detailing when to send wedding invitations.

Brides.com recommends setting your RSVP date for four weeks after you mail the invitations, giving guests plenty of time to respond. We suggest mailing invites eight weeks before the event.

□ Assign seating. When you leave seating to chance, you run the risk of separating friends and family members. Sketch out the room, complete with number of tables and seats per table, and get to work assigning guests to tables with others whom they’ll enjoy. Your friends and family will appreciate it.

□ Finalize details. It’s close enough to the event, but still far enough out, to make final decisions on flowers and menu items, as well as transportation, wedding favors, readings during the ceremony (who will read, and what they’ll read), music (what you do and do not want played) send event schedule to vendors and make sure any and all questions have been answered.

□ Bridesmaids’ gifts. This time-honored tradition is a wonderful way of thanking your bridesmaids for being a big part of your big day. Make it something special, as they’ll likely treasure it for years.

□ Transportation. Now’s the time to schedule a limo (to deliver you and your partner in style), or mini-buses (to get your guests from the wedding to the reception and back, if necessary).

□ Timing is everything. The week of your wedding, make sure to connect personally with each vendor and confirm the time, date and address.

And it doesn’t hurt to thank them in advance for doing everything they can to make your wedding extra special!

□ Meet with photographer/videographer. Long after your big day, the photos and video will serve as priceless memories of your wedding day. Sit down with your photographer and videographer to make sure they understand what you expect, and discuss any fun suggestions that they may have.

□ Hair and makeup artists. Make sure you’ve scheduled time with your chosen hair and makeup artists for them to work their magic on you—or you and your bridesmaids.

□ Hotel block. If you have family and friends coming from out of town, this is an important detail, especially if they’d like the convenience of spending time together, pre-wedding. Reach out to hotels to learn what options they offer for wedding parties.

THE FINAL WEEKS □ Marriage license. Time to make it official. This is typically a quick process—but “typically” is not something you can take to the bank. Make sure to do this a couple of weeks in advance to avoid any bad surprises. □ The RSVP database. Make sure you know how many invited guests are coming, and how many of them are bringing a guest. Armed with a headcount, you can confidently order food and drink to fit your headcount and your budget.

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Top 10 REASONS TO CONSIDER A

GOLF COURSE WEDDING VENUE

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Beautiful scenery:

Golf courses are known for their lush green landscapes and manicured gardens, providing a stunning backdrop for your wedding photos and ceremony.

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All-in-one location:

With a golf course wedding venue, you can have both your ceremony and reception in one place, making it convenient for you and your guests.

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Many golf courses offer outdoor ceremony spaces, allowing you to exchange vows surrounded by nature and fresh air.

Professional event planning:

Golf courses often have experienced event planners on staff who can help you with every detail of your wedding, from choosing the menu to coordinating the timeline.

Ample parking:

Golf courses typically have ample parking space, making it easy for your guests to find a spot and attend your wedding without any hassle.

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Outdoor ceremony options:

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Golf courses often have large banquet halls or reception areas that can accommodate a large number of guests, ensuring everyone can celebrate together.

Customizable packages:

Many golf courses offer customizable wedding packages, allowing you to tailor the experience to your specific needs and budget.

Privacy:

Golf courses are often located in secluded areas, providing a sense of privacy and exclusivity for your special day.

Spacious reception areas:

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On-site catering:

Golf courses usually have their own catering services, ensuring that you and your guests will enjoy delicious food and drinks throughout the event.

Recreational activities:

If you and your guests are golf enthusiasts, a golf course wedding venue allows you to incorporate the sport into your wedding festivities, such as organizing a pre-wedding golf tournament or offering golf lessons for your guests.

Rochester Area Wedding Magazine, 2024

RochesterWeddingMagazine.com

With scenic backdrops cherished by guests & photographers, the Willow Creek Event Center is the perfect place to have your wedding, reception, business meeting, birthday, corporate event, etc.

Contact Our Event Coordinator events@willowcreekgolfmn.com 1700 48th St. SW, Rochester | 507-285-0305 willowcreekgolfmn.com

Indoor and Outdoor Space Available!

Rich and Elegant YOUR PERFECT VENUE

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Photography by Cheeky Monkey Studio

VENUE FEATURES

TI ME LE S S ST YL E

π Ceremony Area Indoor Event Space Outdoor Event Space Handicap Accessible

Photography by Cheeky Monkey Studio

ENJOY

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Photo by Chad Johnson

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2024 PLUMMER HOUSE & GROUNDS RENTAL RATES $900.00 + tax for 1 to 100 people Sunday through Thursday $1,150.00 + tax for 1 to 100 people Friday and Saturday

1091 PLUMMER LANE SW | ROCHESTER, MN 55902

The Farm-to-Wedding

FOOD SCENE

The farm-to-wedding food scene in Southeast Minnesota is thriving, with many couples opting for locally sourced and sustainable food options for their special day. Here are some key aspects of the farm-to-wedding food scene: Seasonal Menus: The farm-to-wedding food scene emphasizes the use of seasonal ingredients.

Couples can work with caterers to create menus that highlight the flavors of each season, incorporating ingredients that are at their peak freshness and availability.

Sustainable Practices: Farm-to-wedding food prioritizes sustainable practices, such as organic farming, responsible sourcing, and minimizing food waste. Couples can choose caterers and venues that align with their values and support environmentally friendly practices.

Farm-to-Table Experiences: Some couples opt for farm-to-table experiences, where the wedding reception is held at a local farm or outdoor venue. This allows guests to enjoy a unique dining experience surrounded by the beauty of the farm and its surroundings. The food served at these events is often sourced directly from the farm, providing a truly farm-to-table experience.

Local Wine and Beer: In addition to locally sourced food, many couples also incorporate local wines and craft beers into their wedding celebrations. The region is known for its vineyards and breweries, offering a wide selection of locally produced beverages that can be paired with the farm-to-table menu.

Food Stations and Interactive Displays: To showcase the farm-to-wedding food scene, couples often opt for food stations or interactive displays that allow guests to see and interact with the ingredients and preparation process. This can include live cooking stations, farmers market-style displays, or even DIY food stations where guests can assemble their own dishes using fresh ingredients.

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. . . o D Say I o...ttable e D g r I o f y n a S to U e

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• Picturesque Skyline • Exclusive Private •• Picturesque Skyline Country Club Picturesque Skyline

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• Intimate Ceremonies Of Any Size •••Intimate Ceremonies Large Celebrations Intimate Ceremonies Of Any Size Up To Of Any 400 Size

• Personalized Experience •• Exclusive Exclusive Private Private •• Handcrafted • Large Celebrations Country Club Handcrafted Food Food Celebrations Country Club 3100 Country Club Rd SW, Rochester, MN 55902 • 507-536-4467 ••Large sdejongh@rgcc.org Up • Personalized Experience Up To To 400 400 Weddings available forExperience non-members • Personalized

3100 3100 Country Country Club Club Rd Rd SW, SW, Rochester, Rochester, MN MN 55902 55902 •• 507-536-4467 507-536-4467 •• sdejongh@rgcc.org sdejongh@rgcc.org Weddings available for non-members Weddings available for non-members

HistoricallyDistinctive…

Distinctive…

Historically ExclusivelyYours Yours Exclusively

UniqueWedding WeddingTransportation Transportation Unique “TrolleyStyle” Style” “Trolley Your special occasion deserves unique transportation Your special occasion deserves unique transportation provided by the Trolley! Have fun cruising around town provided by the Trolley! Have fun cruising around town with your friends and family after your wedding ceremony! with your friends and family after your wedding ceremony!

Don’t forget those special Trolley photos! Make your Don’t forget those special Trolley photos! Make your day hassle-free by transporting your guests from hotel day hassle-free by transporting your guests from hotel to ceremony to reception. to ceremony to reception.

Our mission is excellence as we become an honored Our mission is excellence as we become an honored partner with the bride and groom on their wedding day — partner with the bride and groom on their wedding day — from the friendly professionalism of our trolley conductor to from the friendly professionalism of our trolley conductor to the arrival of a beautiful vintage open-air or enclosed trolley! the arrival of a beautiful vintage open-air or enclosed trolley!

Getyour your Get quotetoday! today! quote We offer an We offer an array of features array of features and options and options

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rochestermntours.com/weddings rochestermntours.com/weddings USDOT 686106 USDOT 686106

The perfect place for the perfect wedding weekend.

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VIP WEDDING PACKAGES • The Zumbro River Patio provides a scenic place to have your groom’s dinner • Customized web page for reservations • Proud to be in the top 5% of the Hilton Brand • Free hot buffet breakfast • Complimentary surface lot parking.

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Rochester Area Wedding Magazine, 2024

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Let our experienced photographers capture

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Wedding Packages include: • Experienced Photographers • Customized USB keepsake drive • Print rights to your wedding day images • Password-protected online gallery

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How To Write

VOWS WOW that

F

rom our view at Rochester Area Weddings, the countless details and planning that go into a wedding pale in importance to the singular reason that brought everyone together: the promise of a couple’s life together. More than any other single moment, emotions run high when two individuals put into words the promise that will bind them together as a couple.

You may want to write your own wedding vows…or not. Whichever it is, this piece is for you. If yes, we’ve compiled some tips to help you share the “why” behind the “I do.” If not, we’ve put together some sample vows, that you’re free to use as is or modify and make your own.

Wedding vows are, and should be, as individual as the people tying the knot.

The single most important piece of advice we have for anyone as they work on this element of their big day is this: Be real. Nothing is more powerful than the genuine reasons that brought you to this point. Without question, the very best vows are those that capture the fun, or the seriousness, or the quirkiness, or the solemnity…whatever it is that brought you together.

If the words are real, the vows will wow.

Traditional WEDDING VOWS I, , commit myself to , as wife/husband/ you, partner, for a lifetime of experiences, to learn and grow with, to explore and adventure with, to respect you in everything as an equal partner. I do this knowing that our life together will bring joy and pain, strength and weariness, direction and doubt, for all the dawns and dusks to come. We tie these symbolic knots to proclaim and celebrate our connection. They represent our trust in each other and the sum of our combined strength.

On this day, surrounded by friends, family, and people who love us, I , to be my life choose you, partner. I am proud to be your wife/ husband/partner and to forever join my life with yours. I vow to support you, push you, inspire you, and love you, for better or worse, in sickness and health, for richer or poorer, as long as we both shall live.

, take you, , I, to be the wife/husband/partner of my days, the companion of my house, the friend of my life. We shall bear together trouble and sorrow, as well as shall share the good and joyful things life may bring us. With these words, I marry you and bind my life to yours.

Modern

WEDDING VOWS I, , take you as you are, loving who you are now and who you are yet to become. I promise to listen to you and learn from you, to support you and accept your support. I will celebrate your triumphs and mourn your losses as though they were my own. I will love you and have faith in your love for me, through all that life may bring us in all our years.

, take you, , to be my spouse. I vow to I, choose you every day, to love you in word and deed, to do the hard work of making now into always. To laugh with you and cry with you, to grow with you and create with you. To honor all that makes you who you are. To be your partner in all of life’s adventures. Loving what I know of you and trusting what I don’t yet know, I give you my hand. I give you my love. I give you myself. Will you give me yourself? Will you come travel with me?

, do pledge you, , all of my love, for I, as long as I live. What I possess in this world, I give to you. I will keep you and hold you, comfort and tend you, protect you and shelter you, for all the days of my life.

Personal

WEDDING VOWS I love you unconditionally and without hesitation. I vow to love you, encourage you, trust you, and respect you. We will create a home filled with learning, laughter, and compassion. I promise to work with you to foster and nurture a relationship of equality knowing that we will build a far better life together than either of us could create alone. Today, I choose you to be my husband/wife/partner.

I accept you as you are today, and who you will become, and I offer myself in return. I will respect you, support you, and share with you all of life’s adversities and all of its joys for all the days of my life.

I promise to laugh with you in times of joy, and comfort you in times of sorrow. I vow to share in your dreams and support you as you work to make them happen. I will listen to you with understanding, and speak to you with encouragement.

Together, let us build a home filled with love, learning, laughter, shared freely with all who enter. Let us be partners, friends, and lovers, today and all of the days that follow, for the rest of our lives. , take you, , to be my husband/wife/partner. I vow to always be your biggest fan and your partner in crime. I promise to create and nurture a family together, in a home rich with laughter, patience, understanding, and love.

I,

I promise to not just grow old together, but to grow together. smooth. What may come, I will always be there, each one believing that love never dies. As I have given you my hand to hold, so I give you my life to keep. Because there’s nothing we can’t do together.

Romantic WEDDING VOWS , you are my best friend and most important person in my world. I promise to laugh with you, cry with you, grow with you, and to always have you in my heart. I will love you when we are together as well as when we are apart. I vow to support your dreams and to respect our differences, and to always love you through all the days and nights of our lives.

, choose you, , I, exactly as you are. I love what I know of you, and trust those things I’ve yet to discover. I will respect you as a person, a partner, and an equal. There is little for me to say now that you haven’t already heard, and little to give that is not already freely given. Even before you asked me, I was already yours and I am devoted to you in every way. I marry you with no hesitation or doubt, and my commitment to you is absolute. I can’t imagine spending the rest of my life with anyone but you.

. To stand by your I choose you, side and sleep in your arms. To be joy to your heart and food for your soul. To learn with you and grow with you, for all the days of our lives. I vow to laugh with you in good times and struggle alongside you in bad times. I promise to respect you and cherish you as an individual, a partner, and an equal, knowing that we do not complete each other. Instead, we complement each other. I vow to love you as we begin a life of shared adventures, as we walk the path forward together.

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5 Tips for a

FABULOUS REHEARSAL DINNER There was a time when rehearsal dinners were quiet events attended by just the bride and groom, their immediate family members, and the wedding party. Those days are in the past. What was once a small gathering the night before the wedding has turned into an official kickoff of many weekend wedding celebrations. As you plan your perfect rehearsal dinner, here are five key things to consider.

1

2

Decide who hosts

Plan the guest list

Rehearsal dinners used to be commonly known as grooms dinners. Scheduled to follow a wedding rehearsal the evening before the big day, the grooms dinners were the family of the groom’s contribution to the celebration— that is, back when the bride’s family was responsible for the wedding expenses. In our modern era in which couples’ families share in the wedding expenses, it often comes down to the lucky couple footing the bill for the rehearsal dinner, therefore also serving as the official hosts of the dinner.

You’ll want to make sure everyone is on the same page with the guest list.

While the wedding party and the lucky couples’ families will be in attendance, clarify whether or not anyone intends to invite out-of-town guests, children, or grandparents, and so on. It’s okay to keep the guest list small.

3

Keep it simple

4

Manage introductions Don’t forget that some of the attendees at your rehearsal dinner may be meeting each other for the first time. For example, maybe the father of the bride hasn’t met the groom’s old college roommate in the wedding party. Make sure to run through introductions so that no one feels left out of conversation over dinner. This also serves as an ice breaker for those who will want to stand up and share a few words about the couple.

Resist the temptation to go too fancy on the rehearsal dinner.

You don’t want to upstage the big day! With a simple three course meal in a casual environment, you’ll keep everyone comfortable and the conversation flowing.

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5

Don’t forget gifts

Groom’s Dinners & Celebrations Let us host your special event...

The rehearsal dinner is the traditional time to present gifts to the wedding party. Typically these gifts are inexpensive and practical, and often personalized, something like an engraved compact mirror for the ladies and a flask for the guys. Making the gifts practical and personal ensures they’ll be cherished for years to come.

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Wedding Party Gifts

The bride and groom often give gifts to their wedding

party as a token of appreciation for their support and participation in the wedding. Here are some common gift ideas for the wedding party: Personalized Items: Personalized gifts are a popular choice for the wedding party. This can include monogrammed robes, engraved jewelry, custommade items with their names or initials, or personalized keepsakes that hold sentimental value.

Accessories: Consider giving your wedding party accessories that they can wear on the wedding day, such as matching ties, cuff links, or jewelry.

These items can be coordinated to match the wedding theme or color scheme.

Spa or Pampering Gifts: Treat your wedding party to a spa day or a pampering gift set. This can include items like bath bombs, scented candles, skin care products, or gift certificates for massages or facials.

Personalized Thank You Notes: A heartfelt, handwritten thank you note is always appreciated. Take the time to write a personalized message expressing your gratitude for their support and friendship.

Experiences: Consider giving your wedding party an experience they can enjoy after the wedding, such as tickets to a concert, a weekend getaway, or a group activity like a wine tasting or cooking class.

Gift Cards: If you're unsure of their specific preferences, a gift card to their favorite store or restaurant is always a safe choice. This allows them to choose something they truly want or enjoy.

Customized Gift Boxes: Create customized gift boxes for each member of the wedding party, filled with items that reflect their interests and personalities. This can include their favorite snacks, drinks, small trinkets, or personalized items.

Engraved or Personalized Glassware: Consider giving your wedding party engraved or personalized glassware, such as wine glasses or whiskey tumblers. This can be a lasting memento that they can use and cherish for years to come.

Remember, the most important aspect of giving gifts to your wedding party is to show your appreciation and gratitude for their support. Choose gifts that are thoughtful, personal, and reflect their individual tastes and interests.

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Bleu Duck Kitchen & Oyster Bar EVENT SPACE We offer an inviting and intimate venue with exposed brick and original hardwood floors.

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14 Fourth Street SW, Rochester, MN www.BleuDuckKitchen.com RochesterWeddingMagazine.com

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PHOTOGRAPHY • VIDEOGRAPHY DJ • PHOTO BOOTH • COORDINATION

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Book your appointment today at celebrationsbridalandformalwear.com 507.289.2444 • 1171 6th St. NW, Barlow Plaza, Rochester, MN | 320.252.9634 • 2940 W Division St, St Cloud, MN

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WEDDING GOWNS 1. Fitted Mermaid Gown, House of Wu Details: sweatheart neckline, narrow straps, 3D flowers 2. Chiffon gown, House of Wu Details: surplice empire waist with pleated bodice

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3. A-line gown, Allure Couture Details: covered in blooms, features lacy appliqués over a tulle train 4. Off-shoulder bodice, Allure Couture Details: stretch crepe gown leads to an open illusion back, along with a dramatic train 5. Tulle ballgown, Allure Couture Details: features a garden of blooms along the bodice

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WEDDING GOWNS 6. Matte charmeuse bridesmaid dress, House of Wu Details: side draped surplice bodice with front slit 7. A-line gown, Allure Couture Details: unique, sparkling design strapless 8. A-line gown in tulle, House of Wu Details: off-shoulder lace straps, sweeping long train 9. Ball Gown, House of Wu Details: V-neckline, wide strapped with lace bodice 10. Matte stretch bridesmaid dress, House of Wu Details: cowl neckline, A-line skirt 11. Strapless lacy sheath gown, Allure Couture Details: delicate blossoms and eyelash trim

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TREND: Light it Up!

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Sottero & Midgley Chase

3.

Maggie Sottero, Greenley

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Maggie Sottero, Britney

5.

Maggie Sottero, Elaine

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Sottero & Midgley, Holden

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3

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5

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WEDDING GOWNS 7.

Maggie Sottero, Aspen

8.

Sottero & Midgley, Flynn

9.

Maggie Sottero, Sydney Fit-and-Flare

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HONEY MOON

IDEAS for Every Type of Couple

As the anticipation and excitement (dare we say stress?) of the wedding day draws near, couples begin to count on the honeymoon as both a way to celebrate their love and commitment to one another, and also as a welcome reprieve from all the time they’ve put into planning the big day.

Romantic Of course your honeymoon needs to be romantic, but for couples who want to focus on just the romantic parts, Saint Lucia tops almost every list of romantic honeymoon spots. This Caribbean island paradise features the Pitons mountains, rainforests, waterfalls, clear blue skies, and perfect beaches. With a number of all-inclusive resort options, honeymooners in Saint Lucia have plenty of time to focus on romance.

Educational

Adventurous

Close To Home

It’s okay to nerd out on your honeymoon just a little; you can’t change who you are, after all. If your shared love of history and/or politics is what brought you and your spouse together, then you might want to explore Washington, D.C. The nation’s capitol features all the likely stops such as a White House tour and a visit to the Smithsonian, yet also offers its share of romantic highlights, including cherry blossoms in the spring, art galleries galore, and historic stroll routes guaranteed to move the mind as well as the heart.

While every honeymoon will be romantic, some couples like to express their love while staring down the face of danger. If your idea of romance includes hand-inhand scuba diving, deep sea fishing, cliff diving, zip lines, and dune buggy races on the beach, then Acapulco, Mexico is for you. More than a spring break or family vacation destination, this Mexican city is also known for its nightlife and entertainment options.

For many honeymooners, venturing overseas or even cross-country can be a bit more than the schedule or budget will allow. If that’s the case, a romantic weekend in Duluth may be the perfect match. On the shores of Lake Superior, you can watch ships come into the harbor, hike along woodland trails in a number of nearby state parks, and hunt for agates on pristine freshwater beaches. The town’s revitalized restaurant and brewery scene may just encourage you to extend your stay.

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Life is an event. Make it a memorable one with the Empire Event Center.

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REAL WEDDING

Danielle

& Pat

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RochesterWeddingMagazine.com

WEDDING DATE: JUNE 30, 2023 How did you meet and what was your proposal story?

My best friend met Pat in line at Chipotle, they struck up a conversation and she then texted me to say, “I just met your future husband!” Pat and I connected through friends, a blind date was set up, the rest is history!

Pat knows I don’t love attention, so after asking my Dad for permission and telling him he would propose some time that summer, Pat came home from the last day of school (work for him) and proposed to me in the backyard. He couldn’t wait for summer to start!

What was the inspiration for the look and feel of your wedding?

Emerald green reminds me of my Nana, and is one of my favorite colors. Pat loves the look of classic black, so together we kind of combined our thoughts and tried to make it as classic as possible. Also thank God for Pinterest and Danielle’s sister, Shannon, to help with ideas!

What was the significance of your wedding location?

One of my bridesmaids suggested we look at the Skyroom in Red Wing, Minnesota. It was the first place we looked at and we absolutely loved it! We looked at other venues too, but kept comparing them to the Skyroom, so we knew it was perfect for us! Its location in Red Wing was a perfect middle ground for our families in Rochester and the Twin Cities. Plus, the Walsh House, an Airbnb owned by the site, is beautiful and made it so convenient for us to enjoy our day with all of our favorite people.

What was your favorite moment in your ceremony and reception?

Our officiant and best friend, Brad Vaught, did an absolutely amazing job. We took a moment during our ceremony to look at everyone and there wasn’t a dry eye in the house. It was so special to us and we tried to make everything as personal as possible. It is such a special feeling to have everyone you love in one place together! We included so many people we loved into our day, our friend married us, his wife played the piano, my friend played the violin, our friend was our DJ, along with so many other special moments and touches we had to include as many people as possible!

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Would you change anything if you could do it over again? If so, what?

Truthfully, we probably would not change anything. The one thing we could think of is we would love to have a video of our reception, but Midwest did such an amazing job our pictures and video clips made it perfect!

What advice do you have for other couples planning their weddings?

Stay true to you. The number of people who commented on how the wedding was perfect for us and all of our personal touches made us happy about how much planning we put into it!

What did you do for your honeymoon?

We went out to Utah and relaxed and hiked around throughout a few national parks. It was beautiful! It was nice to get away just to take a deep breath after the wedding, and we are planning a bigger trip later on.

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Emerald Green

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∏ Wedding team

Wedding Planner: Carlee Kurtti and team at the Skyroom Ceremony/Reception Locations: The Skyroom, Red Wing, Minnesota Officiant: Brad Vaught (our friend) Cake/Dessert: Mik Mart Ice Cream Truck Catering and Evening Snacks: River Valley Catering Florist: 651 Studio Floral Design Invitations: Designed by Danielle’s sister, Shannon Beauty: Makeup -Sam Hoke with Glamorous by Sam Hair - Hair By BK Bridal Gown: Willow By Watters Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Birdy Grey Tuxedos: Milbern’s Reception Music: Christopher Williams with Beyond Class DJ Photographer: Midwest Lifeshots Photography

∏

How to Choose the

PERFECT WEDDING VENUE

by Thelma Grimes

Before deciding on decorations, flowers and design, a couple must first consider where they want to have their wedding.

Choosing a venue for that special day doesn’t have to be stressful. To choose the location perfect for your big day, keep these tips in mind: What can you afford? – Before venturing out to tour locations, it’s important to know your price point.

You don’t want to fall in love with a place only to find out you can’t even afford the taxes. Set your venue budget before proceeding. On average, couples spend just over $5,000 on the venue. Setting this price point is important because it takes a big portion of the entire wedding budget.

How many are coming? - You need a guest count before you can really choose a venue. Wedding venues have a maximum capacity count, which means you need to know how many guests might be coming before you sign on the dotted line.

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What fits your vision? – Once the business questions are answered, it’s time for the fun part. What do you envision for the big day? Start looking online at pictures of local venues.

See if any of them speak to you. Take guided tours and see if you can see yourself saying I do at that location.

Consider dates – You might have a date in mind, but the venue you are most interested in may not be available. In the early stages, don’t be afraid to have a few dates in mind in case a back-up plan is needed.

Get it in writing – Once you’ve found what you are looking for, get a contract in place. It’s important to remember that wedding venue contracts aren’t as straightforward as one might expect. Ask questions, make sure you are clear on all payment schedules, cancellation policies and in-house requirements.

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Photo by: Joelle Julian Photography

The Premier Southeast Minnesota Historic Wedding & Event Locale

The history is in every stone, the craftsmanship is evident. The beauty is in the arches and windows; boasting the character achieved only by thoughtful design, hard work and the passing of years. Featuring exclusive catering and bar services with the versatility and experience to meet your personal style, tastes and budget.

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REAL WEDDING

SAMANTHA

&

LUKE

Elegant.

Timeless.

Classic.

WEDDING DATE: JUNE 30, 2023 How did you meet and what was your proposal story?

We grew up 15 minutes from each other but met for the first time on March 30, 2019 during a night out in Minneapolis. I saw a group of friends I’d known since elementary and high school, and Luke caught my eye. He introduced himself right away with a warm smile and a big hug. An hour into the night, we were belly laughing and having a great time. The night took us to the dance floor, where we slow danced to rap music, sang to our favorite songs, and had our first kiss. We ended the night with their mutual friends, eating pizza, and sharing stories.

On October 2, 2021, I was under the impression that we’d be spending the day at a winery with Luke’s mom. Luke, however, had other plans. When it was time to go, Luke was standing in the center of our home smiling from ear to ear, and as I got closer, I saw tears well up in his eyes.

I knew exactly what was happening. We embraced for quite a while, and eventually, Luke got down on a knee and asked the question. We spent the next couple of hours sitting on the floor where we got engaged, talking about all the details and planning that went into that moment. This included discussing how he picked the ring, asking my dad for his blessing, and planning the day.

It was just the two of us, exactly as we both wanted.

What was the inspiration for the look and feel of your wedding?

Our wedding’s look and feel were inspired by simplicity and a desire for a classic, timeless vibe. We opted for a color scheme of white, green, gold, and black for our florals and décor, aiming for an understated elegance that wouldn’t go out of style. At the top of our list, we wanted our wedding to feel genuine and true to ourselves.

While it was a special day, we aimed for an atmosphere that was comfortable and reflective of our personalities and relationship.

The Party.

What was the significance of your wedding location?

Our wedding location checked every box for us. The venue’s indoor and outdoor spaces gave our guests the freedom to enjoy the weather and scenery. Above all, we chose it because of the beautiful oak tree where we exchanged our vows. We searched many venues for the perfect outdoor location.

It was just the two of us in the entire Carriage Way. I would recommend that to anyone getting married.

Would you change anything if you could do it over again?

If so, what?

We wouldn’t change a thing, other than the 80-plus degree temp.

What was your favorite moment in your ceremony and reception?

What advice do you have for other couples planning their weddings?

For the ceremony, my favorite moment was listening to Luke’s vows and expressing mine. It felt like it was just the two of us standing up there. Luke says his favorite moment was all the emotions he felt watching his wife walk down the aisle.

From the reception, Luke’s favorite moments were hearing what everyone had to say during their speeches, and our last dance at 11 pm. For me, our last dance at 11 pm was the best!!

Remember as you walk up the aisle to take it in. You will never have this moment again. It’s a wonderful gift!

What did you do for your honeymoon?

We are planning an island vacation winter of 2024.

∏ Wedding tea m Ceremony/Reception Locations: Mayowood Stone Barn Officiant: Great friend and groomsman, Rusty Grisim Cake/Dessert: Nothing Bundt Cakes Catering and Evening Snacks: Canadian Honker Florist: Something Borrowed Blooms Invitations: Created by the bride Beauty: r!ah Hair Studio Bridal Gown: Wedding Shoppe in St. Paul Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Wedding Shoppe in St. Paul Tuxedos: Mens Wearhouse Reception Music: Wedding Day DJs Photographer: Cheeky Monkey Studio

∏

REAL WEDDING

LAURA

&

Michael

WEDDING DATE: AUGUST 6, 2023

What was the inspiration for the look and feel of your wedding?

How did you meet and what was your proposal story?

We wanted a natural setting with simple but elegant décor.

The inspiration was simply the beauty of the venue, which helped guide our vision. We also held a pre-wedding event in Rochester, at the Chateau Theater downtown that took on a more vibrant feel with Indian decorations. The venue for this event, our Sangeet, even featured a marquee sign with our names on it!

We met at Mayo High School in Rochester and started dating when I asked Laura to prom at the end of our junior year back in 2015. Over the next 7 years, we finished high school, went through college, and ended up living close to each other in the Twin Cities. Finally, in April 2022, I asked Laura to marry me at one of our favorite spots in Minneapolis. On the Mississippi River, just across from the Stone Arch Bridge, we went on a casual afternoon walk. Laura had no idea that at the end of the walk, I had a spot picked out to propose to her. Through tears of joy, we officially celebrated the start of our wedding journey, something we had been thinking about for a long time.

RochesterWeddingMagazine.com

What was the significance of your wedding location?

We had never been to our wedding location before we visited for the first time, but it immediately took our breath away.

We wanted to have an outdoor ceremony, and the space was beautiful and intimate.

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The Sangeet was held in Rochester, where we had both grown up and started our relationship. Hosting it at such a stunning venue in downtown Rochester gave us the opportunity to celebrate with a community that is always in our hearts.

What was your favorite moment in your ceremony and reception?

Our favorite moment of the ceremony was when Laura came down the aisle and we could both take in the moment we had dreamed of for years. Seeing our closest friends and family around us as we celebrated the culmination of our relationship is a memory we will always cherish.

Our favorite moment of the reception was at the end of the night when we closed with one of our favorite songs, “I’m Yours” by Jason Mraz. The DJ gave me the microphone and our friends formed a circle as we sang and danced together to cap off the best day of our lives.

Would you change anything if you could do it over again?

If so, what?

Honestly, no. We had been thinking about our wedding for so many years and had sky high expectations. Both the Sangeet and our wedding shattered these expectations and gave us two days that we will never stop thinking about.

What advice do you have for other couples planning their weddings?

Enjoy every part of the process. Wedding planning is stressful, and there are so many things to think about. Once it’s over though, it feels like it all went by in an instant. Be present and grateful for everything that comes with the wedding because you only get one chance to celebrate like this.

∏ Wedding team

Wedding Planner: Aruna Venkat and Aroona Events Ceremony/Reception Locations: Sangeet - Chateau Theatre, Rochester Wedding - Hidden Meadow & Barn Officiant: Laura’s father, Garth Conkright Cake/Dessert: Wedding cake - Hy-Vee Ice cream - The Pearl Ice Cream Parlor Catering and Evening Snacks: India Spice House of Eden Prairie Florist: - Scarlett & Flora - Laura’s parents who grew flowers in their garden for the décor.

Invitations: Minted Beauty: Makeup - Luminous Beauty Hair - Liz Hoh Bridal Gown: BHLDN - Anthropologie Weddings Tuxedos: Michael’s tuxedo - Nordstrom Groomsmen suits -Men’s Warehouse Reception Music: DJ Jeet and DJ Rick Photographer: Alexandra & Bharath Wootla (AB-Photography.us) Videographer: Tyler Aug Rentals: Aroona Events

WEDDING DIRECTORY 2024

OWN FOR LESS THAN RENTING AT HEIMIE’S. Celebrations

Bridal & Formal Wear

The White Rose

Carroll's Corn

celebrationsbridalandformalwear.com 1171 6th St. NW, Barlow Plaza Rochester, MN 55901 | 507-289-2444 Experience the magic of one-on-one bridal shopping with a wide array of gowns to make your wedding day special.

Bridal & Formal Wear

whiterosebridal.net 737 Whitewater Ave. Saint Charles, MN 55972 | 507-932-3375 Located only 20 minutes from Rochester.

Offering A breathtaking selection of bridal gowns for every style of bride!

carrollscorn.com 20 2nd Ave. SW, Rochester, MN 55902 507-287-3307 With custom bags & many flavor mixes, we will work with you to make your day perfect! Salty, sweet, and savory options make Carroll's Corn a crowd pleaser.

Bridal & Formal Wear

Bridal & Formal Wear

Catering

Smoak

Heimie's Haberdashery

Pinnacle Catering

Photos@studiotwelve52.com

pinnaclecateringmn.com 2112 2nd St. SW, Suite 100 Rochester, MN 55902 | 507-258 4633 Custom design your catering menu.

More than 60 years of collective culinary experience.

smoakbbqmn.com 2291 Commerce Dr NW, Rochester, MN 55901|507-361-7427 Perfect option for all your catering needs.

Fine meats smoked in white oak, fresh salads, tacos, gourmet sandwiches and sides.

Catering

Catering

Roosevelt Mansfield Digiemade Photo

heimies.com 215 Bush St., Red Wing, MN 55066 651-388-4261 Heimie's has been in the wedding business, styling grooms and groomsmen for over 100 years Dinners ensuring they&look and feel their Groom’s Celebrations very best on the big day.

Heimie’s Haberdashery, Let us host your special event...

Now In Men's Formal Wear Red Wing.

TheWellDining.com | HubbellHouseRestaurant.com | PinnacleCateringMN.com

Bleu Duck

Five West Kitchen and Bar

Groom's Dinner by Powers

bleuduckkitchen.com 14 Fourth St. SW, Rochester, MN 55904 507-258-4663 Co-Owner and Events Coordinator Jennifer Becker will work with you personally to plan your night. The Event Space can host your party with seating from 25 - 100 guests.

fivewestrochester.com 1991 Commerce Dr NW Rochester, MN 55901 507-361-5555 ext. 2 Host your next event at Five West. Enjoy the private dining room (up to 50 guests) and customizable menu options.

hubbellhouserestaurant.com pinnaclecateringmn.com With three unique options to choose from your special event will have everything you are looking for and more.

Event Space

Event Space

Event Space

B R I D A L & F O R M A L W E A R | C AT E R I N G | E V E N T S PA C E

WEDDING DIRECTORY 2024

Say "/ do" to Cheeky Monkey Studio Now booking 2024 and 2025 weddings

Home 2 Suites By Hilton

Residence Inn By Marriott marriott.com 809 16th St., Rochester, MN 55902 507-923-2141 Beautiful brand new hotel with great amenities including a full open bar, 50 person riverfront meeting room, relaxing salt water pool and more!

marriot.com/RSTTM 601 2nd St. SW, Rochester, MN 55902 507-361-0050 A magical place for your wedding guests!

Spacious rooms and suites, limo shuttle bus service, complimentary buffet breakfast and meeting rooms all in a convenient location.

Hotel

Hotel

Hotel

home2suites.hilton.com 831 16th St. SW, Rochester, MN 55902 507-361-4200 The perfect place for the perfect wedding weekend. Proud to be ranked in the top 3 hotels in Rochester on Trip Advisor.

Townplace Suite

TWO LOCATIONS: DOWNTOWN PEACE PLAZA ACROSS FROM TRADER JOES

Johnson Jewelers

Lasker Jewelers & Diamonds

Cheeky Monkey

johnsonjewelerslakecity.com 109 East Center St., Lake City, MN 55041 651- 345-3825 Johnson Jewelers of Lake City carries a wide variety of fine jewelry and a unique specialty line is Lake Pepin Pearls.

laskers.com 1190 16th St., SW, Suite 100 (by Trader Joes) TWO LOCATIONS: Downtown Peace Plaza, Rochester, MN DOWNTOWN PEACE PLAZA 507-516-1260 ACROSS FROM TRADER JOES Our curated selection represents love, commitment, and the cherished journey of togetherness. Two Rochester loactions!

cheekymonkeystudio.com Rochester, MN | 507-272-4575 Our memories can fade but a moment preserved in time can not. Cara Carisch (Rochester MN Wedding and Portrait Photographer for 10+ years) will capture every beautiful moment on your day.

Jeweler

Jeweler

Photographer

www.cheekymonkeystudio.com I 507.272.4575 cara@mycheekymonkeystudio.com

Midwest Lifeshots

Sunflower Photography

Complete Weddings

midwestlifeshots.com Rochester, MN | 507-951-8859 Your wedding is unique & your photography should be as well. We custom-tailor every package to fit your budget perfectly. We can include Engagements, Guest Books, Albums, Boudoir sessions!

mysunflowerphotography.com 268 S. Main St., Zumbrota, MN 55992 507-322-8102 We take pride in the work that we do, and we provide superior customer service in addition to quality photography we know you'll be thrilled with.

5227 Castleview Drive NW, Rochester, MN 507-252-1499 Planning your dream wedding or event should be simple and fun, and we firmly believe that having all our services under one roof makes planning easier on you.

Photographer

Photographer

Photo Booth/DJ

completerochester.com

HOTEL | JEWELER | PHOTOGRAPHER | DJ

WEDDING DIRECTORY 2024

Majestic Events

majestictents.com 522 6th Ave. NW, Rochester, MN 55901 507-876-1127 An indoor venue or one of our tents we can fit your vision, space, and budget to help you create the wedding you’ve always imagined for your once in a lifetime wedding.

Rochester Trolley & Tour Co.

Star Transportation We have a vehicle for every limostar.comOCCASION EVENT & SPECIAL

rochestermntours.com/weddings 507-421-0573 Our mission is excellence — from the friendly professionalism of our trolley conductor to the arrival of a beautiful vintage open-air or enclosed trolley!

103 20th St. NE, Stewartville, MN 55976 507-281-0969 Travel in style with Star Transportation.

Luxury Sedans & SUVs, Stretch Limousines, Mercedes Sprinters, Corporate & Luxury Visit LimoStar.com to see our fleet Coaches, Deluxe Motor Coaches

Rentals

Transportation

Transportation

Copperfield Terrace

CAP. 400+ Empire Event Center Best Western

Falconer Vineyards

24371 550th St., Plainview, MN 55964 507-696-2572 copperfieldterrace.com Newly constructed, upscale venue nestled on 4 acres at the outskirts of Plainview MN. The exterior boasts a modern design in earth tones, natural stone and wood grains.

1517 16th St. SW, Rochester, MN 55902 507-529-7322 The recently renovated Event Center catering to Empire you conveniently attached to the Apache Hotel Apache Hotel & Event Center and future Best Western – Rochester is the 1517 16th St. SW Rochester, MN 55902 ideal location for507-529-7322 your upcoming wedding!

Venue

Venue

conveniently attached to Apache Hotel and future Best Western Hotel

falconervineyards.com 3572 Old Tyler Rd., Red Wing, MN 55066 651-388-8849 Picturesque, family-owned vineyard, winery, & cidery located in historic Red Wing, Minnesota. Perfect loaction for weddings, grooms dinners, and corprate events!

Venue

Cap. 300 In Summer 100 In Winter

Graham Park

grahampark.org 1403 3rd Ave. SE, Rochester, MN 55904 507-328-7059 Some consider Graham Park the hidden gem in Olmsted County with three recently renovated wedding venues; Floral Hall, Crawford Hall & Aune Hall.

Garten Marketplatz

CAP. 100

gartenmarketplatz.com 5225 County Rd. 15 SW, Byron, MN 55920 507-365-8891 Beautiful Civil-War era farm located 6 miles SW of Rochester on paved roads.

Carriage House Events Center available year-round.

Garden Weddings

History Center

olmstedhistory.com/rentals 1195 West Circle Dr. SW, Rochester, MN 55902 507-282-9447 Historic buildings, a gorgeous tree line, a romantically lit pavilion, and more: these are just some of the options you have for the outdoor wedding of your dreams at our venue.

& SPECIAL EVENTS FOR OVER 20 YEARS

Venue R E N TA L S | T R A N S P O R TAT I O N | V E N U E

Venue

Beautiful Civil-War era farm located 6 miles SW of Rochester on paved roads Carriage House Events Center available year-round

5225 County Road 15 SW | Byron, MN 55920 | 507-365-8891 | GartenMarketplatz.com

Venue

WEDDING DIRECTORY 2024

CAP. 275 J. Powers At The Hilton

Mayo Civic Center

CAP. 250+ Mayowood Stone Barn © Boyum Photography

mayowoodstonebarn.com 3385 Mayowood Rd. SW, Rochester, MN 55902 | 507-281-2276 Experience the natural beauty and craftsmanship of the century-old stone buildings and wide open spaces surrounding Mayowood Stone Barn.

Venue/Hotel

Venue

Venue

©

Megan Jo Photography ©

Megan Jo Photography

©

BKreative Films ©

Megan Jo Photography

©

©

BKreative Films

mayociviccenter.com 30 Civic Center Dr. SE, Rochester MN 55904 507-361 5071 shannon.fredrickson@mayociviccenter.com Perfect location to accommodate ceremonies and receptions of all sizes. Featuring the largest ballroom in Minnesota.

BKreative Films

jpowers.events 10 E Center St, Suite 2B, Rochester, MN 55904 507-280-8888 In addition to the breathtaking views, amazing food, and world-class service, you’ll be impressed with the thoughtful details and luxurious surroundings.

Outback Ranch

Plummer House

CAP. 275

CAP. 800 Rochester Event Center

outbackranch.net South West of Houston, MN 507-896-5550 Beautiful setting for any event featuring scenic overlooks. Location offers a banquet hall, historical cowboy stall barn, indoor and outdoor venue options.

1091 Plummer Lane SW, Rochester, MN 55902 507-328-2525 Historic Rochester home with formal gardens and beautifully landscaped grounds.

Venue Features: ceremony area, indoor event space, and outdoor event space.

rochestereventcenter.com 7333 Airport View Dr. SW, Rochester, MN 55902 507-529-0033 Award-winning culinary team creates exquisite food with a sophisticated presentation.

Facility features a Grand Ballroom.

Venue

Venue

Venue

Rochester Golf & Country Club

Willow Creek Golf

Counterpoint Home

rgcc.org 3100 Country Club Rd. SW, Rochester, MN 55902 | 507-536-4467 Spectacular views, state-of-the-art facilities and free parking for your guests.

Host intimate ceremonies of 10 or large celebrations of 400.

willowcreekgolfmn.com 1700 48th St. SW, Rochester, MN 55902 507-285-0305 Offers a full spectrum of banquet facilities and services including picturesque views, signature cuisine, outdoor ceremony site, seating for up to 250 and dance floor.

counterpointhome.com 111 South Broadway, Rochester, MN 507-280-6419 You'll find the perfect wedding gift and we happily gift wrap items purchased in our stores, offer shipping, and assist with personalized shopping

Venue

Venue

Wedding Gifts VENUE | GIFTS

Bring the universal love of to all your wedding events.

Stay Fresh packaging will keep popcorn fresh!

20 2nd Ave SW Rochester, Minnesota 55902 | (507) 287-3307 | shopcarrollscorn@gmail.com

carrollscorn.com Ge

WE HAVE YOU COVERED Linens | Chairs | Tables | Tents | Audio | Lighting Dance Floor | Stages | Accessories & Much More Worry-free event rentals from start to finish.

Call Majestic Events at 507-876-1127 | majestictents.com

of Lake City

109 E Center St, Lake City

(651) 345-3825 | JohnsonJewelersLakeCity.com

TWO LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU BETTER: LAKE CITY & WOODBURY!

CUSTOM | BRIDAL | DIAMONDS | WE BUY GOLD