Authentic Moments at Elm Creek Chalet | Three Rivers Parks Wedding
An Authentic & Beautiful Summer Wedding at Elm Creek Chalet | Minneapolis Wedding Photographer
There’s something timeless about Minnesota summers—lush greenery, golden sunsets, and the peacefulness of being surrounded by nature. Elm Creek Chalet, nestled within the Three Rivers Parks system, offers all of that and more. It's a hidden gem for couples who want a blend of rustic charm, natural beauty, and a relaxed vibe for their big day.
This authentic and candid summer wedding at Elm Creek Chalet was everything I love about documenting love stories: real emotions, stunning outdoor scenery, and a couple who truly enjoyed every moment together.
Outdoor Ceremony Surrounded by Nature
The couple chose to hold their ceremony in one of Elm Creek’s most scenic outdoor spaces, with towering trees overhead and a soft breeze carrying the sounds of laughter and anticipation. As guests settled into the open-air setup, the bride walked down a wildflower-lined aisle to meet her groom under a handcrafted wooden arch.
The setting was naturally gorgeous and incredibly peaceful—proof that sometimes the best ceremony backdrops are the ones made by nature.
The Vine-Covered Bridge: A Dreamy Photo Spot
After the ceremony, we made our way to one of my favorite features of Elm Creek: the vine-covered bridge. Tucked away within the park, this bridge feels like something out of a storybook. Covered in lush greenery, it’s the perfect location for romantic portraits that feel intimate, timeless, and truly one-of-a-kind. The way the late afternoon light filtered through the vines was absolutely magical.
We captured everything from quiet, candid moments of the couple soaking it all in, to playful laughter and those just-married grins that are impossible to fake.
Candid Moments That Tell the Real Story
As a Minneapolis-based wedding photographer, my approach is always centered on real connection. I believe the most powerful photos come from moments that aren’t posed or planned. This day was full of them: teary hugs from parents, spontaneous dance moves from the flower girl, and quiet exchanges between the couple that said more than words ever could.
The candid photos we captured throughout the day tell the full story—one of love, joy, and being fully present with the people who matter most.
A Picture-Perfect Summer Celebration
With its rustic lodge feel, open-air decks, and panoramic views of the park, Elm Creek Chalet provided the perfect setting for a relaxed, heartfelt celebration. Guests mingled on the patio, kids played on the grass, and everyone gathered as the sun dipped below the trees for a golden-hour glow that wrapped the day up beautifully.
If you're planning a summer wedding in the Minneapolis area and want your day captured in a way that’s authentic, beautiful, and honest, Elm Creek Chalet is one of the best choices you can make—and I’d be honored to photograph it.
Let’s capture your story, just as it is—real, joyful, and uniquely yours.
