As a Minnesota wedding photographer, one of my favorite things to see my couples embrace is their individuality and preferences. From their thoughtfully chosen wedding details to the songs playing at their reception, I love to see my couples’ personalities shine. But something that I hadn’t yet seen during my time as a photographer was a couple opting for a daytime wedding! Callie and Elijah’s daytime summer wedding in Northern Minnesota was such a fun, wholesome day that was centered around family and friends. And I mean, who wouldn’t want to feast on brunch after celebrating such a beautiful couple!?
Daytime Summer Wedding | Minnesota Wedding Photographer
Callie and Elijah’s wedding day began bright and early at 8:00am at the Northern Escape Venue, a half hour north of Bemidji. From the first time I hopped on a call with Callie, I knew to expect beautifully curated details. Flat lay photography is one of my favorite parts of a wedding day to photograph, because it really highlights the couple’s style and love story. Callie kept her bridal details simple, yet elevated. Her bridal bouquet of white roses, baby’s breath, and greenery effortlessly complimented her sophisticated wedding gown. Before all the bridesmaids slipped into their own gowns, we snagged some photos with them in their coordinating pajamas. Talk about girlhood!
While Callie was sharing a first look with her bridesmaids and dad, Elijah was making finishing touches to his attire with the help of his groomsmen. While we were definitely hustling to make sure we were ready before their morning wedding ceremony, it was still so sweet that both Callie and Elijah got to spend intentional time with their people. Before we knew it, it was time for the bride and groom to share their first look and exchange private vows. Between the delicately falling tears, little laughs, and stolen kisses, private vows always choke me up! After wiping my own tears, Callie and Elijah exchanged gifts before we joined the bridal party for portraits.
Inspiration for a Daytime Wedding
If you haven’t gathered by now, this morning wedding was pretty busy (but in the best way). Luckily, everything was located within the venue, which definitely eliminated some stress of traveling from site to site. It was also such a joy to knock out all the formal photos before the ceremony, so that Callie and Elijah could enjoy their time with their guests. I typically recommend taking all formal photos before the ceremony for this exact reason (if the couple is sharing a first look). While it’s certainly not “mandatory”, it does provide couples with more quality time together and with their guests.
Callie and Elijah’s wedding ceremony began at 11:00am, with guests sitting beneath a blue sky and warm sunshine. I couldn’t help but to feel like we were spoiled by the weather; you never know if a summer wedding will be swelteringly hot or just plain rainy. After the bridal party made their way to the alter, the flower grannies tossed petals along the aisle. If you’re wondering if they stole the show: they absolutely did! The ceremony itself was full of intention. Callie and Elijah’s unity ceremony consisted of the braiding of 3 strands, which is such a sweet reminder for them to look at each day as the plaque hangs in their home. Before we knew it, Callie and Elijah were officially married!
Daytime Wedding Reception Ideas
The daytime wedding reception began with yard games, mimosas, and bloody’s while I snagged Callie and Elijah for some newlywed photos. We spent some time in the shade before strolling through some fields of fluffy white dandelions and long grass. When Callie shared her wedding photography vision with me in the beginning stages of planning, she expressed how much she loved a mixture of black and whites, color, and some trendy photos. So before we headed into the venue space for brunch, we experimented with some fun photos.
Despite the daytime wedding vibes, the reception consisted of exactly what you would expect for a ‘typical’ wedding day! But with a twist: brunch. There were big smiles on each guest’s face as they enjoyed pancakes, eggs, fruit, and various sweets. We spent the rest of the afternoon listening to heartfelt speeches, watching the first dances, and playing Corn-hole on the lawn.
Northern Minnesota Wedding Photographer | Alyssa Ashley Photography
Before hugging the newlyweds goodbye, we were able to sneak away one last time for some more bridal portraits. Despite the picturesque blue skies, I was delighted to watch some dark clouds start to creep in. As much as I love the sunshine, cloud cover makes for even more beautiful photos! Reminiscing on Callie and Elijah’s gallery reminds me just how much I loved the creativity that came with these last moments together. Between playing with the grainy images and adjusting the crop, I loved the challenge that Callie proposed with these photos!
Callie and Elijah headed out in their getaway car after their grand exit to wrap up their daytime summer wedding in Northern Minnesota. I couldn’t be more grateful to have captured such a special day for them, full of so much love. I also couldn’t be more grateful to have gotten home before 6:00pm to get sneak peeks over to Callie and Elijah to enjoy before starting their honeymoon!
Now that busy season is wrapping up for Alyssa Ashley Photography, stay tuned to the blog as I share even more lovely couples! And of course, you an always keep up with me on Instagram (@alyssaashley_photography) for sneak peeks, BTS, and wedding planning tips. As always, thanks for being here!
Northern Minnesota Wedding Vendor Team:
Photography: Alyssa Ashley Photography
Venue: Northern Escape Venue
DJ: Anthony Boe with Ntertainment
Catering: Minnesota Nice Cafe
Decorations: Liisa’s Rentals in Clearbrook, MN
Florals: Bloomin Creations Warroad, MN
