Category Archives: Weddings

July 26, 2026

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

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.

Tags: july wedding, serenity hills wedding, southern minnesota wedding, wedding, wedding day

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July 8, 2026

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

Tags: cottage grove wedding, hope glen, hope glen farm wedding, july wedding, Minneapolis, minnesota wedding, summer wedding, wedding

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

Venue & Planning: Hope Glen Farm
Wedding Planner: Eryka Wienke
Hair: Shiloh Mackenthun
Makeup: Face by Grace
Wedding Dress: Arabella Bridal
Bridesmaid Dresses: Azazie
Men’s Attire: Birdy Grey
Catering: This Little Piggy Catering
Cake: Hy-Vee Cottage Grove Bakery
DJ: Beautiful Day DJs
Videographer: KFrame Kapture
Invitations: Zola & Simply to Impress
Bride’s Rings: Jared
Groom’s Wedding Band: Shane Co.

Tags: cottage grove wedding, hope glen, hope glen farm wedding, july wedding, Minneapolis, minnesota wedding, summer wedding, wedding

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June 2, 2026

Spring Soirée Wedding at Eagle Brook Church and Silverwood Park :: Minneapolis Wedding

Tags: garden wedding, minneapolis wedding, minnesota wedding, mn wedding, pastel wedding, Spring wedding

There are weddings that are beautiful, and then there are weddings that are thoughtfully designed down to the smallest detail. Rob and Sarah’s spring wedding was exactly that a joyful, elegant celebration inspired by the soft colors and romantic garden scenes of Monet and Renoir paintings.

From a stunning Minneapolis morning of getting ready to a lakeside reception at Silverwood Park, every part of their wedding day reflected Sarah’s creativity, artistic eye, and love for meaningful details.

Getting Ready in Minneapolis

The day began in separate locations around Minneapolis, where both Rob and Sarah prepared for the biggest day of their lives surrounded by family and friends.

Sarah spent the morning with her bridesmaids in a beautiful, light-filled space overlooking the city. The atmosphere was relaxed, joyful, and full of anticipation. Matching pajamas, laughter, and heartfelt moments made for the perfect start to the day as the bridal party enjoyed hair and makeup by The Beauty Collective.

As a designer by profession, Sarah carefully curated every detail of the day. Her vision centered around a spring soirée theme inspired by Monet and Renoir garden paintings, featuring soft pastel colors, lush florals, and romantic garden-inspired elements that would carry throughout the entire celebration.

Meanwhile, Rob spent the morning getting ready with his groomsmen before heading to the ceremony site, eager to see his bride.

Meaningful Family Heirlooms and Personal Details

One of the most remarkable aspects of Rob and Sarah’s wedding was the intentionality behind so many of the details.

Sarah wore a beautiful gown selected through Flutter Bridal Co. and designed by Colby John Bridal. Later in the evening, she changed into an incredibly special reception dress; her mother’s wedding gown.

Another touching detail was found in Sarah’s veil. One of her aunts carefully sewed fabric flowers created from her mother’s wedding dress onto the veil, creating a meaningful family heirloom that connected generations.

Rob carried his own family history with him as well. Diamonds from his grandmother were incorporated into his wedding ring, making it a lasting tribute to family and legacy. These thoughtful personal touches transformed an already beautiful wedding into a deeply meaningful celebration.

A Meaningful First Look and Ceremony at Eagle Brook Church

After getting ready, Rob and Sarah made their way to Eagle Brook Church in Minneapolis. The church’s beautiful stone architecture provided a timeless and elegant backdrop for their wedding day.

Before guests arrived, the couple shared an emotional first look. These quiet moments together allowed them to soak in the significance of the day before celebrating with their family and friends.

Following the first look, we completed wedding party photos around the church grounds. The beautiful architecture and surrounding spaces offered countless opportunities for classic wedding portraits.

Soon it was time for the ceremony. Surrounded by loved ones, Rob and Sarah exchanged vows and officially began their marriage together. The ceremony was filled with joy, faith, and the support of the family and friends who gathered to celebrate them.

Silverwood Park: A Garden-Inspired Reception Comes to Life

Following the ceremony and additional portraits around Eagle Brook Church, everyone headed to The Great Hall at Silverwood Park in St. Anthony, Minnesota for the reception.

This is where Sarah’s vision truly came to life.

Guests were welcomed with signature mocktails and a delicious selection of hors d’oeuvres while they mingled on the beautiful patio overlooking the park. Friends and family spent time reconnecting and enjoying the gorgeous spring weather before dinner began.

Inside the reception space, every detail reflected the couple’s garden-inspired theme. Each table was named after a different flower and featured beautiful floral arrangements, candles, menus, and carefully selected décor. The combination of pastel colors, garden textures, and thoughtful design elements created an atmosphere that felt both elegant and inviting.

The stunning floral design by Malana Sophia Floral and Merci Garden perfectly complemented Sarah’s vision and brought the space to life.

Dinner, Dancing, and Sunset Portraits

As the evening continued, guests enjoyed a wonderful meal prepared by Chef Jeff Catering before sharing heartfelt speeches celebrating the newlyweds.

The celebration flowed effortlessly thanks to Jessica of Events by Jess, who expertly coordinated the day and ensured every detail came together seamlessly.

After dinner, guests enjoyed cake from Sift Gluten Free and then filled the dance floor as Will of Midwest Sound DJ kept the party going well into the evening.

One of my favorite parts of the day was sneaking away with Rob and Sarah for portraits around Silverwood Park. The lakeside views, lush greenery, and peaceful pathways provided the perfect backdrop for romantic sunset photos. These moments allowed the couple to slow down, take in the day together, and create some truly unforgettable images.

As the evening came to a close, the dance floor remained full and the joy of the day was evident in every smile, embrace, and celebration.

A Perfect Spring Wedding Celebration

Rob and Sarah’s wedding was the perfect blend of elegance, creativity, faith, family, and intentional design. Every detail reflected who they are as a couple and created an unforgettable experience for everyone who attended.

It was an honor to document their wedding day and witness the incredible amount of love, care, and thought that went into every aspect of their celebration.

Rob and Sarah, thank you for allowing me to tell your story. Your wedding was truly one to remember.

Minneapolis Wedding Vendor Team

Photography: Karen Feder Photography // Ceremony Venue: Eagle Brook Church, Minneapolis // Reception Venue: Silverwood Park, St. Anthony, Minnesota // Planning & Coordination: Events by Jess // Catering: Chef Jeff Catering // Florals: Malana Sophia Floral & Merci Garden // DJ & Entertainment: Midwest Sound DJ // Hair & Makeup: The Beauty Collective // Videography: Gades Creative Films // Wedding Dress Boutique: Flutter Bridal Co. // Wedding Dress Designer: Colby John Bridal // Bride’s Ring: Princess Bride Diamonds // Groom’s Ring: Embellir Gems // Jewelry: Helzberg Diamonds // Suit: State & Liberty // Cake: Sift Gluten Free // Linens: Festivities MN

Planning a Wedding in Minneapolis or St. Paul?

If you’re planning a wedding at Eagle Brook Church, Silverwood Park, or anywhere in the Twin Cities area, I’d love to help tell your story through timeless, authentic photography. Contact Karen Feder Photography to learn more about wedding collections and availability.

Tags: garden wedding, minneapolis wedding, minnesota wedding, mn wedding, pastel wedding, Spring wedding

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May 5, 2026

Wedding Flat Lay Checklist :: What to Bring for Beautiful Wedding Detail Photos

Tags: Minneapolis, minneapolis wedding photographer, minnesota wedding, minnesota weddings, wedding day details, wedding details, Weddings

If you’re wondering what to include in your wedding flat lay or how to prepare for your wedding detail photos, this guide will help you get everything ready for timeless, elevated images that tell the story of your day.

As a wedding photographer, I always recommend gathering your detail items ahead of time so your morning feels calm, organized, and stress-free and so your photos turn out beautifully styled and intentional.

What to Include in Your Wedding Flat Lay Details

Your wedding invitation suite is one of the most important pieces of your detail photos. Be sure to include your invitation, RSVP card, details card, and envelope. If you have special design elements like wax seals, vellum wraps, ribbon, or custom calligraphy, those add even more texture and personality to your images.

Your wedding jewelry should also be set aside and ready for photos. This includes earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and your wedding rings. I recommend removing jewelry from packaging ahead of time so it’s easy to style and photograph without delays on your wedding day.

Don’t forget your wedding shoes and veil, if you have one. These items add dimension and softness to your flat lay and help complete the overall look of your wedding details.

Other meaningful items you may want to include are your perfume or fragrance, heirloom pieces, handwritten notes, vow books, or any sentimental items that reflect your relationship and your story.

Tips for Beautiful Wedding Detail Photography

One of the best ways to elevate your wedding flat lay is by asking your florist ahead of time for a few extra blooms or loose flowers. These florals help tie everything together and bring color, texture, and softness into your detail images.

I also bring a few styling pieces with me to every wedding, including neutral ring boxes, jewelry dishes, and a variety of ribbons. However, if you have personalized or sentimental styling items you’d like included, feel free to set those aside as well.

How to Prepare Your Wedding Details for Your Photographer

To make your wedding morning easier, gather all of your detail items into a small box or bag before the wedding day. This allows your photographer to quickly access everything when they arrive for detail coverage.

It’s also helpful to fully prepare your items ahead of time remove jewelry from packaging, detach tags, and separate pieces so nothing needs to be unwrapped or assembled on the wedding day. This saves time and ensures more of your coverage is spent creating beautiful imagery rather than organizing items.

Why Wedding Flat Lay Details Matter

Your wedding detail photos set the tone for your entire gallery. These images capture the beginning of your story, the anticipation, the design, and the meaningful pieces that make your wedding uniquely yours. With a little preparation, your flat lay becomes a cohesive, artful representation of your day.

Wedding Flat Lay Checklist: What to Have Ready for Detail Photos

Paper Goods (Invitation Suite)

Invitation
RSVP card
Details card
Envelope(s) (including liners if you have them)
Wax seals, vellum wraps, or ribbons
Extra copies of your full suite (2–3 sets if possible)

Jewelry

Earrings
Necklace(s)
Bracelet(s)
Rings (engagement + wedding bands)
Any heirloom or sentimental pieces

Bridal Accessories

Shoes
Veil or hair pieces
Hair accessories (clips, combs, pins)

Beauty Details

Perfume or fragrance bottle
Lipstick or signature beauty items (optional)

Florals

Loose blooms or greenery (ask your florist ahead of time)

Sentimental Items

Vow books
Handwritten notes or letters
Family heirlooms
Anything meaningful to your relationship or story

Styling Extras (Optional)

Personalized ring box
Jewelry dish or tray
Ribbon or fabric styling pieces
Any custom or branded details

Prep Tips (Don’t Skip These!)

Have details ready in the getting-ready space
Remove all items from packaging ahead of time
Take jewelry off display cards
Remove tags and stickers
Place everything in one box or bag

Tags: Minneapolis, minneapolis wedding photographer, minnesota wedding, minnesota weddings, wedding day details, wedding details, Weddings

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April 7, 2026

American Swedish Institute & Como Conservatory Wedding :: St. Paul, MN

Tags: American Swedish Institute wedding, Minneapolis, minnesota wedding, mn wedding, wedding

A Vintage-Inspired Wedding at the American Swedish Institute & Como Conservatory

There are some wedding days that simply feel different slower, more intentional, and filled with a kind of beauty that never goes out of style. McKenna and Caleb’s day was exactly that. From meaningful, quiet moments to sun-soaked celebration, every part of their wedding carried a timeless, vintage charm.

Getting Ready at Minneapolis Marriott West

The day began at the Minneapolis Marriott West, where McKenna and her bridesmaids spent the morning getting ready together. There’s always something special about these early hours—the anticipation, the laughter, and the calm before the day unfolds.

McKenna looked absolutely radiant, with makeup by Caitlin Spah and hair styled beautifully by Holly. Everything came together in such a natural, effortless way that perfectly matched the feel of the day.

A First Look at the American Swedish Institute

From there, we made our way to the breathtaking American Swedish Institute for McKenna and Caleb’s first look. If you’re dreaming of wedding photos at the American Swedish Institute in Minneapolis, it truly is one of the most unique and romantic locations. The historic charm, intricate details, and soft light make it a dream for couples who love a vintage aesthetic.

We started at the top floor, where McKenna and Caleb saw each other for the first time. From there, they wandered hand in hand through the building down grand staircases, into the conservatory overlooking the courtyard, and through rooms filled with old-world character. McKenna’s gown, the Inca dress by Grace Loves Lace, paired with her cathedral veil, felt like it was made for this space. Every movement, every turn, felt soft and romantic like stepping into another era.

What I loved most was that they weren’t rushed. They had time to talk, to take it all in, and simply be together before the rest of the day began.

Como Conservatory Wedding Ceremony

After portraits, we traveled to the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory for the ceremony and reception. For couples considering a Como Conservatory wedding, it offers such a unique blend of nature, architecture, and light especially as the day begins to wind down. We started with wedding party photos on the iconic steps outside before heading in for family photos surrounded by lush greenery.

McKenna and Caleb were married in the sunken garden as the sun began to set an intimate ceremony surrounded by their closest family and friends. The light filtered in so beautifully, and the entire space felt peaceful and full of joy. The music by harpist Laurie Leigh added such an elegant and emotional layer to the ceremony, while day-of coordinator Ashley Guajardo ensured everything flowed seamlessly.

Reception Details & Celebration

Following the ceremony, guests gathered in the main hallway of the conservatory for the reception. The space was transformed with stunning florals by Tara Sorg and her team at Martha’s Gardens bringing warmth and texture to the already beautiful setting. Guests enjoyed a delicious meal prepared by Lancer Catering, featuring lamb chops and other incredible bites that made the evening feel both elevated and welcoming. And of course, dessert was just as memorable, with cakes from The Cheesecake Factory Ridgedale a perfect sweet ending to the day.

A Day to Remember

McKenna and Caleb’s wedding was the kind of day that reminds you why these moments matter. It wasn’t rushed. It wasn’t overdone. It was thoughtful, joy-filled, and deeply rooted in love.

A true vintage love story, captured in the most beautiful light.