Your Guide to Getting Married in the Twin Cities
The Twin Cities, Minneapolis and St. Paul, offer a vibrant and diverse backdrop for weddings, combining urban charm with natural beauty. Whether you’re looking for a rustic, elegant, or modern wedding, the Twin Cities provide numerous options to make your special day unforgettable. Here’s a comprehensive guide to planning your wedding in the Twin Cities, featuring venue recommendations, unique photography ideas, and local insights.
Venue Highlight: Minnesota Landscape Arboretum
One of the standout venues in the Twin Cities is the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum in Eden Prairie, MN. This expansive 1100-acre site offers a stunning variety of settings for your wedding, from wide-open spaces to secluded, intimate gardens. The rose gardens, in particular, provide a romantic and picturesque backdrop for both ceremonies and receptions.
The Arboretum is perfect for nature-loving couples who want to incorporate the beauty of the Upper Midwest into their wedding. With a range of locations to choose from within the grounds, you can tailor your event to match your vision, whether it’s a grand celebration or a more intimate gathering.
Unique Photography Ideas: Rustic Baseball Wedding Ring Photo
Detail shots are a crucial part of wedding photography, capturing the small elements that tell a larger story. One unique idea is to combine wedding rings with a beloved item that reflects the couple’s personality or shared interests. For example, I once photographed a bride and groom’s rings alongside a well-used baseball. This rustic baseball wedding ring photo beautifully clashed the wear and tear of the baseball with the pristine elegance of the rings, symbolizing the couple’s shared love for sports and the journey they’ve embarked on together.
The bride and groom were both passionate about sports, with the bride being a huge soccer fan and the groom an avid baseball player. Including these elements in their wedding photography added a personal and meaningful touch to their album. We had previously taken their engagement photos under the iconic Stone Arch Bridge in downtown Minneapolis, which further tied their love story to the Twin Cities.
Top Venues in the Twin Cities
- The Van Dusen Mansion: This historic mansion in Minneapolis offers an elegant setting with stunning architecture and lush gardens. It’s perfect for couples looking for a mix of vintage charm and modern amenities.
- Como Park Zoo & Conservatory: Located in St. Paul, this venue combines beautiful gardens and unique indoor spaces, ideal for both large and small weddings. The conservatory provides a tropical backdrop that’s perfect year-round.
- Nicollet Island Pavilion: Nestled on the Mississippi River in downtown Minneapolis, this venue offers breathtaking views of the skyline and river. The historic pavilion provides a versatile space for both ceremonies and receptions.
- The Machine Shop: For a modern, industrial-chic wedding, The Machine Shop in Minneapolis is a fantastic choice. Its open floor plan and large windows create a bright and airy atmosphere that can be customized to fit any theme.
- A’BULAE: Located in St. Paul, A’BULAE offers a rooftop terrace with stunning city views, making it a great option for urban weddings. The venue’s luxurious interior and state-of-the-art amenities ensure a memorable event.
Why Get Married in the Twin Cities?
- Diverse Venues: From historic mansions and industrial warehouses to botanical gardens and riverfront pavilions, the Twin Cities offer a wide range of venues to suit any wedding style.
- Cultural Richness: The Twin Cities are home to vibrant arts, music, and culinary scenes, providing endless options for incorporating local culture into your wedding.
- Natural Beauty: With numerous parks, lakes, and the Mississippi River, the Twin Cities offer stunning natural backdrops for outdoor weddings and photo sessions.
- Accessibility: The Twin Cities are easily accessible, with a major international airport and a well-connected transportation system, making it convenient for out-of-town guests.
Final Thoughts
Planning a wedding in the Twin Cities allows you to blend urban sophistication with natural beauty, creating a unique and memorable experience for you and your guests. Whether you’re a local or planning a destination wedding, the variety of venues and rich cultural offerings make Minneapolis and St. Paul an ideal choice for your special day.
For more inspiration and to see examples of Twin Cities weddings, check out my portfolio. If you’re ready to start planning your Twin Cities wedding, contact me today to discuss how we can capture the beauty and joy of your big day.
Here are 10 Minneapolis Wedding Venues