I’m 100% convinced that it doesn’t get better than summertime in Minnesota. But if it did, it would be a summertime wedding in Minnesota. And let me tell you: Julia and Matthew’s classy summer wedding at the Headwaters Golf Club couldn’t have felt more magical. But the truth is, as beautiful as their details and decor were, their love for one another was the real winner. I couldn’t be more grateful to have documented Julia and Matthew’s next chapter in their love story.
Romantic Summer Wedding at the Headwaters Golf Club
Julia and Matthew met way back in 2016. It wasn’t until late 2022 when they reconnected while Matthew was stationed in Germany with the Army. After spending some time chatting for a few months, Julia flew to Germany to visit Matthew. And as they say — the rest is history. Throughout their entire wedding day, nearly 10 years after they first met, I couldn’t help but notice just how beautiful Julia and Matthew’s friendship was. Seeing two best friends get married is something that will never grow old!
At the forefront of Julia and Matthew’s relationship and marriage was their faith. They chose to get married at St. Mary’s Catholic Church and Grotto in Two Inlets, Minnesota. Not only did they want to pay homage to their faith, but they loved the outdoor aspect of the venue. Before Julia and Matthew shared a first look outdoors, I snagged Julia and her mom to take advantage of the warm sunshine pouring through stained glass windows in the indoor sanctuary. As soon as we wrapped up inside, Julia made her way to Matthew to share their first look and exchange their private vows.
Two Inlets, Minnesota Wedding Ceremony
After spending some time taking bridal portraits on the beautiful lawn, the couple’s bridal party joined us. Julia and Matthew’s crew was so loving and so excited to be there to celebrate the couple. The groomsmen wore classic black tuxedos, while the bridesmaids wore mismatched dresses in varying shades of blue. The bridesmaids held bouquets of white roses and Baby’s-breath, which looked perfectly elegant next to Julia’s colorful summer bouquet.
Once we finished bridal party portraits, the wedding ceremony began. Julia and Matthew sat up at the alter while their bridal party sat in the front rows in the audience. If you’ve ever been in a wedding (especially in the summer), you know how grueling it can be to stand through a full wedding ceremony! After the ceremony, we snapped a couple newlywed photos before the new Mr. and Mrs. and their bridal party hopped on a party bus to take them to Headwaters Golf Club for the reception.
Headwaters Golf Club Wedding Reception | Park Rapids Wedding
Every little detail at the reception venue was so thoughtfully selected. This might sound silly, but the wedding tent at Headwaters Golf Club was one of the most elegant, classy ones I have seen! Not only did the tent have tons of clear panels to allow ample natural light, but there were string lights strung overhead and moss-covered chandeliers! But the beauty didn’t stop there. Banquet tables were draped in white linens, adorned with colorful florals that matched the bride’s bouquet. Each table setting featured burlap place mats, blue glassware, cornflower blue napkins, a menu, and wooden bookmarks. Every little detail was so intentional and aesthetically pleasing!
Guests snacked on an expansive grazing table and sipped signature cocktails before heading inside the tent for the reception to begin. During speeches, there were big tears and huge laughs from Julia, Matthew, and the guests. It’s always so fun to hear what a couple’s closest people have to say about them. While we waited for dinner to arrive, I was able to snag Julia and Matthew away for a few more newlywed portraits before heading back inside. We explored the grounds, and found the prettiest grove of towering pines that made for the perfect backdrop for their photos.
Back inside, dinner kicked off and then the dance floor suddenly became packed. Julia and Matthew had fun using the smoke guns and just having the sweetest time celebrating alongside their loved ones. It was the best way to conclude their Park Rapids classy summer wedding at the Headwaters Golf Club.
North Central Minnesota Wedding Photographer | Alyssa Ashley Photography
If you made it this far, you’re truly the best. In case we haven’t met yet, HI! My name is Alyssa (lead photographer and owner of Alyssa Ashley Photography). I am a North Central Minnesota and North Dakota based wedding photographer with a passion for capturing core memories and creating timeless keepsakes. I firmly believe that your love story is worthy of being beautifully documenting. If you’re searching for someone to capture your biggest (and smallest) moments, I’d love to connect.
And if you like what you saw here on the blog, you can keep up with my adventures over on the ‘Gram (@alyssaashley_photography). Thanks for being here!!
Park Rapids, MN Wedding Vendor Team:
Photography: Alyssa Ashley Photography
Venue: Headwaters Golf Club
Florist: TJ’s Florals
Hair & Makeup: Bliss Salon and Boutique
Dress: Jackie J’s Bridal
DJ: Spectrum Entertainment
Video: Adorn Photography
Caterer: Upper Crust Catering
