Emotional and Playful Theodore Wirth Trailhead Wedding

The Trailhead at Theodore Wirth Park in Minneapolis is an event space that’s perfect for couples wanting to stay close to the Twin Cities while being surrounded by nature. If you’re looking for a venue with easy access, indoor and outdoor options, and beautiful views, start your search here! The Trailhead was the perfect choice for Leah (she/her) and Jeff’s (he/him) Minneapolis wedding ceremony in October.

Getting Ready at an Airbnb

The whole crew started the day together at an Airbnb in Minneapolis. Friend and barber, Ian, provided cuts and shaves for Jeff and his pals while Leah and her friends got ready upstairs. Even though the couple got ready in the same space, we could still do a private first look in the Airbnb’s backyard. After this, we moved on to the Trailhead at Theo Wirth for the ceremony and group photos.

About Theodore Wirth Park

Theodore Wirth Park is the largest park in the Minneapolis Park System, with over 750 acres of land. The park has a lake, urban forest, chalet-style clubhouse and Great Hall. With 12 miles of trails, it offers biking and hiking options for multiple experience levels. The park hosts activities year-round, like cross-country skiing in winter and biking and disc golf in warmer months.

The park is conveniently located on the edge of Minneapolis and Golden Valley, Minnesota. Situated on the Western edge of downtown Minneapolis, the park is easily accessible for local and out of town guests. It is a quick 20 minute drive from the Minneapolis-Saint Paul airport. And with plenty of hotels just minutes away in downtown Minneapolis or in Saint Louis Park, there’s plenty of convenient lodging options available for guests.

The Loppet Foundation

The Trailhead at Theodore Wirth is the public face of the Loppet Foundation. This non-profit organization connects various local communities with year-round activities and fosters appreciation for the outdoors. And with the Loppet Foundation’s values of collaboration, growth, inclusion and commitment to anti-racism, this venue is a no-brainer for like-minded couples.

About the Trailhead

Located just off the Cedar Lake Trail, the Trailhead is the perfect venue for couples who want to be surrounded by trees and trails. The Great Hall, which is the main building at the Trailhead, blends in beautifully with the surrounding trees by utilizing timber beams. The angular roof gives the building a unique and modern feel.

The Trailhead provides a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces to rent. From small events with 20 guests to parties with up to 180 people, there are several options for any sized gathering. The Great Hall at the Trailhead has storage closets, restrooms, and immediate access to outdoor spaces, such as a lined patio and a large grass lawn. Great Hall rentals range from $1,600 for a half day to $4,000 for a full day. Hourly rentals are also available for $300/hr, and must include set up and break down time. You also have the option to rent 1/3 or 2/3 of the Great Hall.

Parking is very easy and accessible at the Trailhead. There is a large lot attached and there are several more within close walking distance. The Trailhead is also a stop on local bus route 7.

Photographers do need a permit through the Minneapolis Parks and Recreation Board to photograph here. However, it’s a small fee of $47 per hour and a half of shooting time, and the staff make the filing process so easy! The fee also goes toward protecting park resources, so I’m always happy to pay. Permit applications should be submitted at least 10 days prior to the requested date.

Theodore Wirth Trailhead Wedding

Leah and Jeff ultimately chose the Trailhead as their wedding venue for a few reasons. They wanted an outdoor space that could honor their guest count, while being close to their Airbnb and reception venue. The Trailhead offered all of these things, along with beautiful views of the changing fall colors.

Leah and Jeff’s ceremony was held outdoors on the lawn attached to the Great Hall. They had perfect temperatures and a beautiful backdrop as the trees were transitioning colors. Their community of loved ones from all over the country showed up to support the couple. With friends co-officiating the ceremony and other pals performing songs, it was clear to see just how loved these two are.

If you’re looking for a customizable venue near downtown Minneapolis, a Theodore Wirth Trailhead wedding is a solid choice. The Trailhead has beautiful views and offers amenities that will make your wedding fully unique to you.

Couples’ Portraits at Boom Island

After the ceremony and signing of the marriage license, the couple and I broke off for a few portraits. Boom Island Park in Minneapolis was the perfect location for this. The park didn’t have many visitors during that time of evening and the sunset reflected beautifully off of the Mississippi River.

Reception at the Sinclair on Grand

After portraits, we headed over to The Sinclair on Grand in Minneapolis for the reception. Friends and family gave hilarious and heartfelt speeches, and DJ Hampster Dance provided immaculate vibes for the remainder of the night with kick ass music and top notch emceeing. It was the best way to end an amazing day.

Vendor list:

Dress: Luxe Bridal MN

Hair and makeup: Salon Oriana

Coordinator: Dos Goats Plans

Catering: Marna’s Catering

Here’s what Leah and Jeff had to say about their experience:

“It was easy to focus on each other as partners and have our own tender moments and those clearly came across in the final photos. Janet is really fun to take photos with! More than that, she is very experienced and knows how to make you feel comfortable and guide you to get the best photos of you naturally.”

To book your wedding, reach out here!

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