All happy families are alike; each unhappy family is unhappy in its own way.
― Leo Tolstoy, Anna Karenina
Perhaps an unexpected quote to use for Jill and Patrick’s Minneapolis warehouse wedding at Aria – their families are, without doubt, very happy and their celebration was elegant and gorgeous.
No, this quote is about me.
As a wedding photographer, I often think about the things that unite my work across weddings. Every wedding I photograph is a totally different event – hot days in open fields, autumns in north woods, intimate mansion in winter, expansive spaces like Aria. And yet, Tolstoy was onto something here. Happy weddings must include several aspects that totally work – a couple that is present to enjoy their guests, a schedule that allows for the kinds of laughter that only happens with time, and heartfelt interactions from family and friends. Also, generally there is a really good band.
In picking out the images from Jill and Patrick’s wedding that I wanted to share, I remembered again how present they were, the wonderful conversations I had with their friends (thanks for the Barcelona restaurant recommendations, Katherine!), the emotional toasts from Jill’s father and from Patrick’s brother. And throughout, the total joy of Jill and Patrick sharing those moments with each other.
That kind of joy makes it so easy to document happy moments, happy people, laughter, togetherness.
So, there is not really anything else I can say about Jill and Patrick’s Minneapolis warehouse wedding at Aria that the photos don’t show. It was happy. It was gorgeous. It was joy filled. It had a great band.

















































































































Reception: Aria
Ceremony: St Olaf Catholic Church
Florist: Sadie’s Floral
Band: Bluewater Kings
Dress: Vera Wang
Suit: Jos. A. Bank
Planner: Fab Events
Catering: Deco Catering
Dessert: Buttercream Bakery
Decor: Linen Effects