Grace & Michael Get Married!

What an amazing weekend this has been! Back to back weddings with two fantastic couples and venues. Grace and Michael were married today and everything went so perfectly! Weather alone (yes, I know I talk about weather a lot...) was a perfect Minnesota summer day. We started this perfect day at Capture Salon Studio in Stillwater where Grace, the maids and mother of the bride got all dolled up! Grace was well, full of grace. All day long. Elegance seems to just surround her; maybe it was the bridal glow. :) 

Grace and Michael did not see each other before the ceremony so there seemed to be quite a bit of anticipation! The happy couple said their vows at St. Patrick's Parish just across the river in Hudson. What a gorgeous and unique church! Lovely stain glass elements and giant wood beams throughout. After a few readings done by family members and a touching service, Michael and Grace sealed the deal with kiss! And were all smiles for the rest of the day. 

We headed back into Stillwater for some fun with the newlyweds and their wedding party. The flooding along the riverside has subsided mostly so we made sure to get as close to the water as possible! I just love the shots of the bride and groom with the water and bridge behind them! What a good looking pair! The reception was being held in the Waterstreet Inn. Location, location, location! The head table had a view of the bridge and river! We also made sure to use nearly every inch of the inn as well including the couple's romantic suite. Dinner of course was enjoyed by all after Grace's father gave a lovely blessing and reminded Michael that although he felt like the luckiest man to be the father of the bride today, that it was Michael who was truly lucky. Michael agreed fully and took a bow. :)

The evening proceeded with very, very touching and personal toasts from a few wedding party members. Stories were shared illustrating how selfless and loving Grace and Michael are and of course everyone wished them nothing but the best in their new journey together. Grace and Michael then took to the dance floor for their first dance; turns out they took lessons and surprised everyone with a very elegant performance. After cutting a beautiful two-tiered cake from P.J. Murphy's Bakery, guests enjoyed raspberry filled cupcakes before hopping onto the dance floor.... these guests, in particular the groomsmen, had some pretty good moves! Unfortunately we were just leaving as the men got to show their dancing skills to Britney Spears... 

Grace and Michael, thank you for having us capture your wedding day! Enjoy the quick recap of your beautiful day.