From Family Heirlooms to Golden Hour: A Rush Creek Wedding Story
A Timeless Summer Wedding | St. Mary of the Lake Ceremony + Rush Creek Golf Club Reception
There’s something truly magical about a Minnesota summer wedding—and this one was unforgettable. I had the honor of photographing Charles and Bridget's gorgeous celebration, which began with a heartfelt Catholic ceremony at St. Mary of the Lake in Plymouth and concluded with an elegant reception at the beautiful Rush Creek Golf Club in Maple Grove.
From the moment I arrived at the church, I could feel the anticipation in the air. St. Mary of the Lake, with its stunning architecture and warm natural light, made the perfect setting for a meaningful, faith-centered ceremony. One of my favorite moments was when Bridget walked down the aisle wearing a veil made from her mother’s wedding dress—a beautiful tribute to family legacy and love passed through generations. There wasn’t a dry eye in the room.
The bridal party looked timeless and chic. The bridesmaids wore flowing purple dresses, which added a lovely pop of color and perfectly complemented the lush floral arrangements—a dreamy mix of soft lavender, ivory, and greenery. The groomsmen, along with Charles, wore classic black tuxedos that brought a formal, elegant vibe to the day.
After the ceremony, we made our way to Rush Creek Golf Club, where the rolling greens and golden summer light gave us the most stunning backdrop for portraits. We were able to sneak away for some golden hour photos just before sunset, and those are some of my favorite shots from the entire day—soft, romantic, and full of genuine emotion.
Inside the reception space, every detail was thoughtfully planned—from the delicate floral centerpieces to the custom signage and the laughter echoing through the room. It was clear that this day wasn’t just about beautiful aesthetics (although there were plenty of those!), but about the love and joy shared by two people surrounded by their closest friends and family.
Weddings like this remind me why I love being a photographer. Capturing moments that will become part of a couple’s story forever is an honor I don’t take lightly. If you're planning a wedding in the Minneapolis area—or dreaming of your own Rush Creek celebration—I’d love to hear more about your vision.
Congratulations again to Bridget and Charles! Your day was a true reflection of who you are—classic, joyful, and filled with love.
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Vendor Shoutouts:
Venue: Rush Creek Golf Club, Maple Grove
Ceremony: St. Mary of the Lake Catholic Church, Plymouth
Dress: Madison James
Photographer: Bridget Couwenhoven
