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Gloria & Hunter’s Romantic Serenity Hills Wedding in Preston, Minnesota :: Southern Minnesota Wedding Photographer

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Some love stories begin in unexpected places, but Gloria and Hunter’s started right at home. Both growing up in Stewartville, Minnesota, they built a relationship rooted in friendship, shared values, and unwavering commitment. Even when life took them in different directions, they spent four years navigating a long-distance relationship, proving that distance only strengthened the love they shared.

When the time was right, Hunter planned the perfect proposal. Over Labor Day weekend in 2025, he proposed at Gloria’s family cabin on the beautiful St. Croix River in Lakeland, Minnesota. As the sun set over the river, Hunter got down on one knee while Gloria’s entire family looked on. Then came one final surprise—her best friends from Luther College appeared to celebrate alongside them, making an already unforgettable evening even more meaningful.

Their wedding day at Serenity Hills in Preston, Minnesota was every bit as beautiful as their love story.

A Perfect July Wedding at Serenity Hills

Nestled among the rolling hills of southern Minnesota, Serenity Hills offered breathtaking views in every direction. The lush greenery, peaceful countryside, and warm July sunshine created the perfect setting for Gloria and Hunter’s wedding day.

The morning began in Serenity Hills’ beautiful bridal suite, where laughter, excitement, and a few happy tears filled the room. Gloria had dreamed of a wedding filled with pink and sparkle since she was a little girl, and seeing that vision come together was simply magical. Her bridesmaids shimmered in sparkling gowns while carrying beautiful pink florals that perfectly reflected Gloria’s style.

Many of Gloria’s bridesmaids were fellow musicians from Luther College, where lifelong friendships were formed. They surrounded her with encouragement, laughter, and love while helping her get ready, making the morning feel incredibly special.

Emotional First Looks Filled with Happy Tears

The first looks throughout the day were some of my favorite moments.

Gloria first revealed her wedding dress to her bridesmaids, whose reactions were full of excitement and emotion. Shortly afterward, she shared an incredibly touching first look with her father. Before seeing each other, Gloria surprised him with a thoughtful birthday gift, bringing tears to both of their eyes.

Then came the moment Gloria and Hunter had been waiting for.

Away from the excitement of the day, they shared a private first look followed by personal vows. Watching these two exchange heartfelt promises before the ceremony was one of the most intimate and emotional moments of the entire wedding.

Wedding Portraits with the Rolling Hills of Southern Minnesota

One of the reasons I love photographing weddings at Serenity Hills is the incredible variety of scenery without ever leaving the venue. Every direction offers another beautiful backdrop of rolling hills, mature trees, and endless greenery.

One of Gloria’s most creative wedding details was incorporating parasols throughout the day. Guests were each given a parasol before the ceremony to provide shade during the warm July afternoon. They not only kept everyone comfortable but also became one of my favorite photography details. The parasols added elegance, movement, and personality to the wedding party portraits and beautifully complemented the colorful summer landscape.

A Ceremony Filled with Music

Music has always played a central role in Gloria’s life, making the ceremony especially meaningful.

More than 13 musicians performed throughout the ceremony, creating an unforgettable atmosphere as family and friends witnessed Gloria and Hunter exchange vows. As they were joyfully pronounced Mr. and Mrs. Voigt, the musicians celebrated them with music while guests erupted in cheers.

It was truly one of those moments you’ll never forget.

A Relaxing Cocktail Hour and Joyful Reception

Cocktail hour invited guests to slow down, reconnect, and celebrate together while enjoying lawn games, refreshing drinks, and the beautiful countryside surrounding Serenity Hills.

Dinner was catered by Estelle’s Eatery, serving delicious gourmet burrito bowls that guests absolutely loved.

Before the first dance, Gloria surprised Hunter with one final heartfelt gift—she sang to him. There wasn’t a dry eye in the room as she shared such a personal moment with her new husband before they danced together for the first time.

As the evening continued, Wedding Day DJs kept the dance floor full while family and friends celebrated well into the night.

Just before sunset, we snuck away for golden hour portraits. The soft July light spilling across the rolling hills created the dreamiest ending to an already unforgettable wedding day.

Congratulations, Mr. & Mrs. Voigt!

Gloria and Hunter, thank you for trusting me to document such an incredible celebration. From your emotional first looks to the beautiful music, joyful reception, and golden hour portraits, your wedding perfectly reflected the love, faith, friendship, and commitment you’ve built together.

Congratulations, Mr. and Mrs. Voigt! I cannot wait to see what God has in store for your future together.

Serenity Hills Preston, Minnesota Wedding Vendors

A wedding like this comes together because of an incredible team of talented vendors.

  • Venue: Serenity Hills – Preston, Minnesota
  • Day-of Coordinator: Tori Johnson
  • Hair: Madison Maroo & Suzanne Thompson
  • Makeup: Chantell Canfield & Suzanne Thompson
  • Florals: Suzanne Thompson
  • Catering: Estelle’s Eatery
  • Cake: Nothing Bundt Cakes – Rochester, Minnesota
  • DJ: Sam Hanson, Wedding Day DJs
  • Videographer: Caleb Waldeck – CWAL Creative
  • Stationery: Zazzle
  • Wedding Dress Boutique: Finery Bridal Chic
  • Bridesmaid Dresses: Various online boutiques
  • Men’s Attire: Men’s Wearhouse – Rochester, Minnesota
  • Wedding Rings: Wedding Day Diamonds – Rochester, Minnesota

Looking for a Serenity Hills Wedding Photographer?

If you’re planning your wedding at Serenity Hills in Preston, Minnesota, I’d love to help tell your story through joyful, timeless photography. From the rolling hills and scenic overlooks to the beautiful bridal suite and outdoor ceremony space, Serenity Hills is one of Southern Minnesota’s most picturesque wedding venues, and it’s an incredible place to celebrate the beginning of your marriage.

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    Katelyn & Noah’s Hope Glen Farm Wedding :: Cottage Grove, MN Wedding Photographer

    Posted in Outdoors, Summer, WeddingsTags: , , , , , , ,

    If you’re dreaming of a romantic Hope Glen Farm wedding with vineyard views, golden hour portraits, and a venue full of charm, Katelyn and Noah’s wedding day is the perfect inspiration. Their July wedding at beautiful Hope Glen Farm was filled with incredible moments, joyful celebration, and reminders that the best love stories are often built on friendship first.

    From emotional family moments to wandering through vineyards, feeding goats, and ending the evening beneath a breathtaking Minnesota sunset, every part of their day reflected exactly who they are as a couple.

    From Best Friends to Husband and Wife

    Katelyn and Noah’s story began in 2019. While they were part of different friend groups, life brought them together after COVID when they spent more time talking, serving in church, and growing as friends. Over countless phone calls, texts and conversations, their friendship became something much deeper.

    Rather than rushing into dating, they chose to wait. At the end of their sophomore year of high school, Noah asked Katelyn’s father for permission to date her and take her to prom. That intentional decision became the beginning of a relationship centered on faith, friendship, and following God’s plan for their lives.

    An Emotional First Look

    One of my favorite moments of the day happened before the ceremony.

    Katelyn shared a private first look with her dad. The moment he turned around and saw his daughter in her wedding dress was incredibly emotional. Watching the love, pride, and joy on his face reminded everyone just how meaningful these moments are.

    Meanwhile, Katelyn’s bridesmaids surrounded her with excitement all morning long. They laughed together, helped with every last detail, and celebrated every moment leading up to the ceremony. Their support and genuine friendship made the entire morning feel joyful and relaxed.

    A Beautiful Minnesota Summer Wedding at Hope Glen Farm

    There is something incredibly special about a Hope Glen Farm wedding. Located in Cottage Grove, Minnesota, the venue offers beautiful vineyards, peaceful walking paths, charming gardens, a treehouse, friendly farm animals, and endless opportunities for stunning wedding photos.

    The amazing team at Hope Glen Farm, kept the day running effortlessly from start to finish. Every detail was beautifully coordinated, allowing Katelyn and Noah to simply enjoy every moment together.

    Minnesota weather can be unpredictable, but July 2nd could not have been more perfect. Soft overcast skies created gorgeous light throughout the afternoon, making portraits feel timeless and romantic. Then, just before sunset, the clouds opened to reveal the most incredible golden hour. It truly felt like the perfect ending to an already unforgettable day.

    Katelyn looked absolutely stunning thanks to Shiloh Mackenthun‘s beautiful hairstyling paired with flawless makeup by Face by Grace, creating an elegant and timeless bridal look that photographed beautifully from morning until the final dance.

    She wore a gorgeous gown from Arabella Bridal, while her bridesmaids complemented the day perfectly in dresses from Azazie. Noah and his groomsmen looked sharp in suits from Birdy Grey, creating a classic and timeless wedding party.

    Friends and Family Gather From Near and Far

    One of the most meaningful parts of Katelyn and Noah’s wedding was seeing so many friends and family members travel from across the country to celebrate with them.

    It was obvious how deeply these two are loved.

    Every hug, conversation, prayer, and happy tear reflected the incredible community they have built through family, friendships, and their church.

    The delicious dinner prepared by This Little Piggy Catering gave everyone the opportunity to gather around the table before celebrating well into the evening.

    Exploring Everything Hope Glen Farm Has to Offer

    One of the reasons I absolutely love photographing weddings at Hope Glen Farm is that there is always something new to explore.

    We wandered through the vineyard, climbed up to the charming treehouse, and even spent time feeding the farm’s friendly goats. Those playful moments became some of my favorite photographs from the entire wedding day because they reflected Katelyn and Noah’s joyful personalities so perfectly.

    As photographers, it’s always exciting when couples fully embrace everything their venue has to offer, and Hope Glen Farm provides endless beautiful backdrops around every corner.

    Golden Hour Perfection

    As dinner wrapped up and the celebration continued, we slipped away one last time for sunset portraits.

    The clouds slowly parted, filling the vineyard with warm golden light that every Minnesota wedding photographer hopes for.

    It was absolutely magical.

    Those quiet moments together away from the excitement of the reception allowed Katelyn and Noah to simply soak in the fact that they were finally husband and wife.

    Their beautiful cake from Hy-Vee Cottage Grove waited back inside while guests enjoyed an unforgettable evening of dancing led by Noah from Beautiful Day DJs, who kept the celebration full of energy from beginning to end. Every meaningful moment was also beautifully documented on video by KFrame Kapture, ensuring these memories will be treasured for years to come.

    Congratulations, Katelyn & Noah

    Katelyn and Noah, thank you for trusting me to document one of the most important days of your lives.

    Your wedding was filled with faith, laughter, genuine joy, and the love of so many people who care deeply about you. It was truly an honor to witness the beginning of this next chapter.

    I pray the Lord continues to bless your marriage as richly as He has blessed your story so far.

    Congratulations, Mr. and Mrs. Phillips!

    Hope Glen Farm Wedding Vendor Team

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      Green Acres Wedding :: Eden Prairie, MN

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      On a picture-perfect July day in Eden Prairie, Kelly and Adam tied the knot surrounded by sunshine, laughter, and the people who love them most. Their wedding at the charming Green Acres Event Center was full of heartfelt moments, relaxed energy, and the kind of love that you feel in your chest, the kind that makes everyone around them smile.

      Their story began with a swipe on Hinge and a first date over drinks at Yard House in St. Louis Park. From that first meeting, something just clicked. Kelly and Adam share a deep love for live music (especially country) and they’ve always preferred experiences over gifts, choosing to create memories together rather than collect things. It’s these simple, intentional parts of their relationship that make it so special.

      When Adam proposed, he knew exactly what mattered most to Kelly: their sweet pup, Keva. On a summer morning walk through their favorite spot (Minnehaha Falls dog park) Adam secretly prepared for the big moment. After a series of test ball throws to make sure Keva would go in the river without it, he slipped a ring carrier onto her collar. When he called her to “go to mom,” Keva bolted… straight into the water! Eventually, Kelly noticed the ring carrier, and in total surprise and joy, she didn’t even let Adam get down on one knee before asking, “Are you serious?!” It was the perfect proposal!

      A Calm Morning & Emotional First Looks

      The morning of their wedding was everything Kelly hoped for; peaceful, joyful, and full of sweet anticipation. She got ready with Abbi Zwilling of Styled by Abbi, who handled both hair and makeup with such a calming presence. Shelly Olson also joined for hair styling, helping bring a soft, romantic look to life for Kelly and her bridal party.

      As the final touches were being made, the day moved gently into one of its most emotional moments: the first look. Kelly and Adam shared a quiet, private moment together, just the two of them, seeing each other before the ceremony began. There were tears, hugs, and so much love. Then, Keva joined in for her own little first look with mom and dad, tail wagging and tongue out, making it a moment no one would forget.

      Surrounded by Love & Laid-Back Celebration

      Everything about Kelly and Adam’s day felt intentional and easy in the very best way. With the help of the incredibly talented Whitney Gladden of Whitney James Event and Design, every part of the day was beautifully planned and seamlessly executed. Whitney’s calm, joyful presence behind the scenes gave Kelly and Adam the freedom to truly enjoy every minute.

      Their friends and family were the heart of the celebration. Everyone present genuinely cared for this couple, bringing with them an energy that was light, supportive, and filled with so much love. Green Acres provided the perfect rustic, romantic setting. Its unique barn charm and sweeping outdoor space created a relaxed atmosphere where guests could truly celebrate.

      The florals by T&Nae added the most beautiful touches throughout the day. From Kelly’s bouquet to the ceremony arch, each arrangement was crafted with intention and perfectly captured the summer season.

      Guests enjoyed a delicious meal by Green Mill Catering, who served up crowd favorites with ease and warmth. And when it came time to dance, Adagio DJay Entertainment kept the celebration alive, with a full dance floor and lots of happy feet.

      Stylish, Sentimental, and Full of Personality

      Kelly was radiant in her elegant Stella York gown, which she found at Luxe Bridal Couture. The dress suited her so perfectly; timeless, flattering, and full of joy. Her bridesmaids wore stunning sage dresses from Azazie, while the men looked sharp in suits from Men’s Wearhouse, adding a polished balance to the rustic surroundings.

      Kelly and Adam’s rings were a combination of beautiful sentimentality, sourced from Wedding Day Diamonds, Modern Gents, and Target, a mix that reflected their playful and down-to-earth personalities. They also included their beloved Keva in the celebration with the help of DoggySocial, ensuring she was well cared for and photo-ready throughout the day.

      From the simple stationery they created with Zola to the carefully chosen music and details, every part of the day told a story; a love that’s easy, full of laughter, and deeply rooted in shared adventures.

      A New Chapter Begins

      As the sun dipped behind the trees and the lights twinkled on, Kelly and Adam danced into a new season of life together filled with live music, road trips, and long walks with Keva by their side. Their wedding at Green Acres Event Center wasn’t just beautiful, it was genuine, heartfelt, and unmistakably them.

      Congratulations, Kelly and Adam! Your love is the kind that reminds us what really matters each other, and all the joy that comes with saying yes to forever.

      —

      Vendor Team

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        The Outpost Center Wedding :: Chaska, MN

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        Kelly and Sean’s love story began in a church life group, where they bonded over their mutual love for volleyball. Their friendship deepened through their regular “Game Night Tuesdays.” Sean would visit Kelly and her mom every Tuesday, and they would play a few rounds of Settlers of Catan, keeping a tally sheet of all their wins. This simple tradition became a cornerstone of their relationship, filled with laughter, competition, and growing affection.

        Sean’s proposal was a testament to his thoughtful and caring nature. What was supposed to be a day of skiing turned into a hiking adventure at Interstate Park on a cold January day. Bundled up in warm gear, they hiked through the nearly deserted park, reminiscing about their journey together. At the third scenic overlook, Sean asked Kelly three important questions before getting down on one knee and asking for her hand in marriage. Overwhelmed with excitement, they cut their hike short and headed back to Maple Grove for a celebratory dinner Sean had planned.

        On a hot July day, family and friends gathered at The Outpost Center in Chaska, MN, to celebrate Kelly and Sean’s beautiful union. The day was filled with love, joy, and the vibrant colors of summer, as the couple began their new journey together.

        The morning began with anticipation and excitement, as Kelly shared her first look with her bridesmaids. Their faces lit up with admiration and joy, setting a heartfelt tone for the rest of the day. The emotional moment continued as Kelly’s father saw his daughter in her stunning wedding dress from David’s Bridal for the first time, creating a memory that will be cherished forever.

        The Outpost Center, known for its picturesque fields of wildflowers, was in full bloom. Pinks, yellows, and various brightly colored hues swayed gently in the summer sun, while birds flew overhead, adding a touch of magic to the day. The setting was perfect for the celebration, embodying the natural beauty and warmth of the couple’s love.

        The bridesmaids wore dresses in shades of blue, complementing the vibrant wildflowers. Kelly’s nieces and nephews played the charming roles of ring bearers and flower girls, adding a touch of innocence and delight to the ceremony. The men looked dashing in their navy suits from Knights Chamber, perfectly matching the elegant yet relaxed atmosphere of the day.

        The wedding was a testament to the couple’s love and the joy of their family and friends. Kelly’s hair was beautifully styled by Tandi Smith, adding to her radiant appearance. Karen Heuer catered the meal, providing a delicious feast that delighted all the guests. Instant Request brought the tunes for the evening, ensuring the dance floor was alive with energy and celebration.

        As the evening progressed, guests enjoyed dancing and celebrating. The natural beauty of The Outpost Center, combined with the love and happiness of everyone present, created an unforgettable atmosphere. Kelly and Sean finished off their day with a sparkler send off as guests waved them away!

        Kelly and Sean’s wedding day was a perfect blend of love, family, and cherished memories. The day was a reflection of their journey together, from game nights and shared prayers to a heartfelt proposal and a beautiful wedding. As they embark on this new chapter of their lives, they carry with them the love and support of everyone who came together to celebrate their union. Congratulations to the two of you!!

        Ceremony and Reception:: The Outpost Center // Hair:: Tandi Smith // Catering: Karen Heuer // DJ:: Instant Request // Wedding Dress:: David’s Bridal // Groom’s Suit:: Knights Chamber // Rings: Brilliant Earth and Helzburg Diamonds // Veil:: Susan Vander Lende //

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          Northwoods Wedding :: Emily, MN

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          Tyler and Avery’s journey began through a serendipitous meeting facilitated by family connections. Avery’s cousin, who is best friends with Tyler, brought him along on a fishing trip to Minnesota the summer before their senior year of high school. The connection between Avery and Tyler was instant, and they spent the entire week together, laying the foundation for a relationship that would blossom over the years.

          Despite the challenges of long-distance, Tyler and Avery’s love only grew stronger. They navigated the ups and downs of being apart, building a resilient and enduring bond. Their proposal story is a testament to Tyler’s thoughtfulness and the couple’s shared sense of adventure. During a trip to Atlanta, Georgia, for a young adult conference, Tyler, with the help of Avery’s sister and best friend, planned a surprise proposal. At a picturesque outlook over a lake, Tyler got down on one knee and asked Avery to be his forever.

          Nestled in the Northwoods beauty of Emily, Minnesota, Tyler and Avery’s wedding day was a picturesque celebration of love, memories, and new beginnings. Their special day unfolded at Avery’s grandparents’ cabin, the very place where their love story began three years ago. The quaint charm of the cabin, combined with the emotional significance of the location, made it a truly unforgettable occasion.

          The couple exchanged vows in the same church where Avery’s grandparents were married fifty years ago, adding another layer of family heritage and sentimental value to their wedding. The sun shone brightly on that hot July day, casting a warm glow over the entire celebration. From the very beginning, the day was filled with heartfelt moments and pure joy.

          The excitement started as Avery shared her first look with her bridesmaids, their faces lighting up with awe and admiration. This emotional moment set the tone for the day, highlighting the deep bonds of friendship and love. Avery’s father couldn’t hold back his tears as he saw his daughter for the first time in her wedding dress, a beautiful gown that had belonged to her mother. The dress fit Avery perfectly, a timeless piece that carried a legacy of love and family tradition.

          Before the ceremony, Avery and Tyler shared private vows, an intimate moment that reflected their deep connection and commitment to one another. The ceremony itself was a beautiful blend of celebration, worship, laughter and tears, with the couple surrounded by their closest family and friends. Avery and Tyler exchanged rings from Brilliant Earth and Manly Bands. The men, dressed in tan suits from Men’s Wearhouse, looked dapper and perfectly in sync with the summer vibes of the wedding while the ladies looked beautiful in their stunning Azazie dresses.

          After the heartfelt ceremony, Avery made a quick change into a stunning two-piece lace dress from A’terd State. The new dress was ideal for their backyard reception, allowing her to move freely and enjoy every moment of the celebration. The wedding party was a delight to be with, bringing an infectious energy and joy that made the day even more special.

          The reception was a true community affair, with friends of the family coming together to cater the event. Guests were treated to delicious ice cream sandwiches and refreshing watermelon popsicles, perfect for the warm summer evening. Hair and makeup for the bride and her party were beautifully done by Lindsey Ecklund and Ari Norgren, ensuring everyone looked their best throughout the day. The stunning videography by Alyssa Suchy captured every precious moment, creating memories that will last a lifetime and Selena Elrod of Lena Blu kept the day moving with her incredible planning skills.

          As the night progressed, laughter and music filled the air, with guests dancing and playing yard games. GHS Tent Rental provided the perfect setup, ensuring everyone was comfortable and could enjoy the festivities. Mosquito Militia’s services kept pesky bugs at bay, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the celebration. The couple also honored Avery’s parents’ 25th wedding anniversary by playing their first dance song, giving them a special moment to relive their own love story on the dance floor.

          One of the most memorable moments of the evening was when Avery and Tyler decided to cool off by splashing in the lake. As the sun set, they playfully splashed water at each other, a joyous and carefree end to their perfect day. Congratulations to the both of you, may God richly bless this amazing journey of marriage! Enjoy your honeymoon to Colorado Springs!

          Vendors for the day // Ceremony:: Emily Weslean Church // Reception:: Private Residence // Planner:: Selena Elrod // Hair:: Lindsey Ecklund // Make-Up:: Ari Norgren // Video:: Alyssa Suchy // Bridesmaid Dresses:: Azazie // Men’s Suits:: Men’s Wearhouse // Rings: Bride’s – Brilliant Earth, Groom’s – Manly Bands // Tent Rental:: GHS Tent Rental // Mosquito Control:: Mosquito Militia // Wedding Dress:: Family Heirloom //

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