Meet Caitlin and Lance. Oh and their adorable dog, Drake.
Caitlin and Lance were married at their home in Fairibault, MN. Caitlin and Lance built an adorable tree house for the bride and her maids to get ready in. When I walked up the stairs and into the tree house, it was like a childhood dream come true. The tree house had a loft bed, cozy futon, sky lights, a deck overlooking their property, and was decorated with local antiques as well as decor inherited from Caitlin’s Grandmother.
As a wedding photographer, I always love the getting ready portion of the day. The room is always electric with anticipation. Caitlin’s bridesmaids were all so sweet and they were so excited for their friend.
Caitlin carried her Grandmother’s beaded purse and Lance wore his Grandfather’s Mark Twain tie clip. I always love to hear how couples incorporate their heritage into their wedding. Caitlin and Lance also included two wedding cakes into their wedding day. One traditional wedding cake, and a Norwegian wedding cake (which was delicious!).
My favorite location on Caitlin and Lance’s property was the chicken coop that Lance built for Caitlin. He built it out of reclaimed wood, and designed it himself. It was seriously the most adorable chicken coop I have ever seen! I immediately thought of the painting “American Gothic” by Grant Wood and asked if they had any shovels or rakes. Of course, they had some leaning up on the chicken coop and we used them to capture a modern twist on the painting!
Caitlin and Lance have the most adorable dog, Drake. He literally was the most chill dog I have ever met. Throughout the day he would saunter through the bridal portraits, family formals, even the ceremony. When I would take Drake’s photo, it was almost as if he was saying “cheese”. I know how much Caitlin and Lance love Drake, and including him in their wedding was perfect.
I love how Caitlin and Lance chose to light a bonfire as their unity candle. It was so fitting for them. Throughout the evening, I would see people standing around the fire, warming themselves and chatting.
After the ceremony, we stole away for some amazing golden hour images. I won’t lie, the mosquitoes were fierce, but Caitlin and Lance were troopers and we captured some amazing images.
Instead of hiring a dj for the reception, Caitlin and Lance hired a local band, Drive South. They were really fun, and it was such a personal touch to their day.
Caitlin and Lance, thank you so much for choosing me to photograph your love story. I have truly loved getting to know you and wish you nothing but happiness in the future.
xo,
Nicole
Florist: Kleckers Kreations
Caterer: Prairie Pride Farm
Cakes: Blue Bird Cakery
Musical entertainment: Drive South
Hair and Makeup: Kami Sisters Salon and Day Spa