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.

Why book a Trailhead at Theodore Wirth Park wedding?

The Trailhead is part of Theodore Wirth Park, 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. Theo Wirth hosts activities year-round, like cross-country skiing in winter and biking and disc golf in warmer months.

The Trailhead is also 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. 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.

The Trailhead provides a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces to rent. From small events with 15 guests to parties with up to 180 people, there are several options for any sized gathering. The Great Hall has storage closets, restrooms, and immediate access to outdoor spaces, such as a lined patio and a large grass lawn.

Theo Wirth Park is conveniently located on the edge of Minneapolis and Golden Valley, Minnesota. The Trailhead itself is just off the Cedar Lake Trail, and 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.

What does it cost to get married at the Trailhead?

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. A 50% deposit is required to secure the space.

Rental fees include:

• Tables and chairs (for the Great Hall and the Patio)
• Ceremony setup (for the Great Hall)
• AV equipment
• Locker rooms (may be used as getting ready spaces)

Time of Year

Rental prices also range depending on what time of year you’re looking to get married. Their winter season takes place from November – March, and costs about half in comparison to the rest of the year. In the winter, The Trailhead Cafe is the main caterer for all Trailhead events. Outside caterers may be used with Loppet Foundation approval and a fee of 12.25%. Alcohol must be purchased through The Trailhead Cafe, regardless of caterer.

For the rest of the year (mid-March – October), the main caterer at the Trailhead is Mill Valley. The 12.25% fee is required for an outside caterer, along with Loppet Foundation approval. Alcohol must be purchased through Mill Valley, regardless of caterer, during this time of year.

Security

The Trailhead is governed by the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board. Because of this, a Minneapolis Park Police Officer is required to be onsite during events that have over 100 people, are serving alcohol and/or run past regular operating hours. Event organizers must cover the cost for security.

Accessibility at the Trailhead

Parking is easy and has several ADA-designated spaces. The Trailhead North and South Lots are in front of the Trailhead, and are usually the first to fill. The Trailhead is also a stop for Metro Transit on 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.

Lodging near Theodore Wirth

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

Some nearby hotels include:

• The Lofton Hotel Minneapolis: 4-star rated hotel in downtown Minneapolis that averages $140/night. 12 minute drive from the Trailhead
• Elliot Park Hotel: 4-star rated hotel in downtown Minneapolis that averages $130/night. 13 minute drive from the Trailhead
• AC Hotel Minneapolis West End: 3-star rated hotel in St Louis Park that averages $130/night. 9 minute drive from the Trailhead

Some alternative lodging options are:

• Loft in Bryn-Mawr: this bright 1 bedroom, 1 bath loft is listed on Airbnb and averages $140/night. 9 minute drive from the Trailhead
• City Cabin: 3 bedroom, 2 bath home in Golden Valley listed on Airbnb. Averages $280/night and just a 5 minute drive from the Trailhead
• Home in Minneapolis: 1 bedroom, 1 bath home in Minneapolis listed on Airbnb and averages $125/night. 8 minute drive from the Trailhead

Leah and Jeff’s 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.

Theodore Wirth Trailhead Wedding Vendors

Photography: Rebel Diamonds Studios

Dress: Luxe Bridal MN

Leah’s hair and makeup: Salon Oriana

Jeff and friends’ hair: Nice Guy Ian

Coordinator: Dos Goats Plans

Catering: Marna’s Catering

Entertainment: DJ Hampster Dance

Venues: Theodore Wirth Trailhead, Sinclair on Grand

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 in Minneapolis, reach out here!

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