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.
