Intimate and Candid Backyard Wedding in Saint Paul

Rachael and Michael’s Saint Paul home was the perfect setting for their backyard wedding ceremony in Minnesota. Their summer wedding was full of intention and sweetness, and their day was the perfect representation of who they are as a couple.

First Look and Portraits at Lake Como, Saint Paul

Rachael (she/they) and Michael (he/him) got ready separately at their beautiful home in Saint Paul. Just minutes from Lake Como, we decided to do their first look at the lake while guests arrived at the house. While Lake Como is a popular spot on the weekends, we found a private spot by the Hamm Memorial Waterfalls near the Lakeside Pavilion for the first look and portraits. Then we went back to the house for the couple to hide out as guests continued to filter in.

Backyard Wedding Ceremony in Saint Paul

When the couple first told me they planned on having 90 people at their wedding, I wondered if their space would be large enough to accommodate their guest count. Not only was their backyard the perfect size for their celebration, holding the ceremony on the deck gave everyone present the perfect view of the couple.

I love when someone with a personal connection to the couple officiates. It just feels so much more personal and meaningful than hiring a stranger. The couple’s friend, also named Rachel, officiated and led the hand fasting ceremony. Rachael and Michael are avid climbers, so of course they used a climbing rope for the fasting portion!

The couple also handed out bubble guns to the kiddos who were present with strict instructions not to use them during the ceremony. They had free reign to fire away after the first kiss and the grand exit, which gave a whimsical and joyful touch.

Cocktail Hour

The couple opted out of having a traditional wedding party, but still wanted formal photos with their loved ones. We took portraits with their families and friends in the front yard immediately following the ceremony and during the reception. We were greeted by the couple’s dog (Nina!) and some curious kiddos.

While we were taking photos in the front yard, the backyard was transformed into a beautiful reception area. The décor was a mixture of thrifted items, pieces the couple already had, and rentals from Rudy’s Event Rentals.

Reception

After group photos, the couple enjoyed cocktail hour and mingling with their people. The kids were hilarious with the bubble guns and played on the couples’ play set (complete with a mini climbing wall, of course). Local face painters were onsite to create beautiful designs for guests of all ages.

The catered vegan dinner from Reverie was delicious (I had the mock duck and it was life changing). After dinner the couple cut their cakes from Cafe Latte, and then proceeded to served their guests themselves. This small act of quiet selfless really says a lot about who Rachael and Michael are.

The couple’s first dance took place on their deck, which set the tone for more dancing and merriment for the rest of the evening.

Here’s what the couple had to say about our experience together: “Words do not even begin to describe how amazingly talented you are – these photos are so beautiful and fully capture the energy of the day.”

Vendor team:

Hair: Madoka with Dome Salon

Makeup: Natalie Williams

Tablescapes/decor: Rudy’s Event Rentals

Bar: Minnehaha Bar Co

Cake: Cafe Latte

Vegan catering: Reverie

Inquire here to book me as your photographer for your backyard wedding in Saint Paul, Minnesota!

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