A LOVE STORY OF MINNEAPOLIS WEDDINGS AT ARIA
and a list of alternative wedding venues with historic charm and photographic appeal.
Here is my theory when writing a blog post – the writing should be interesting even if to people who were not there. Interesting even if the wedding didn’t exist.
My husband is a food writer (at Heavytable.com if you want local food ideas!) and he has a similar approach to restaurant reviews – it isn’t about the exact experience, it is about the story that experience tells, the context it provides.
I’ve been a Minneapolis wedding photographer long enough to have seen venues open and close, trends come and go, stories begin and end. And so I am sharing this gorgeous wedding at of on my favorite wedding venues that no longer exists, Aria.
But the story is irrevocable – this gorgeousness happened, this joy was real, this experience was important.
So here is my obituary for Aria:
Long before it was a world class wedding venue, it was a theater, and a storage warehouse. It was ordinary, and strong, and made of things that last. And it lasted, and we celebrated there.
ABOUT ARIA WEDDINGS
Couples planning their wedding at Aria often ask me about photographing in the darker spaces, particularly in the evening. Aria is an amazing (world class) space, and it also requires a lot of thought to bring the detail and architecture into the images. Some photographer will approach this space using only natural light, and I think that ultimately is not enough to capture the full breadth of celebrations. I use a combination of natural/existing light, video lighting, and flash photography so that images feel varied and natural to the scene, but also elevated and crisp.
Alternative Wedding Venues Similar to Aria
The Landmark Center. On Rice Park in St Paul, this was built in 1902 has a gorgeous reception hall and architectural interest.
Lumber Exchange. In downtown Minneapolis, this former exchange building has been renovated into a lovely space with original brickwork.
Nicollet Island Pavilion. Along the Mississippi in Minneapolis, this older space has original brick and iron work.
Machine Shop. One of Minneapolis’s most sought after wedding event venues, this has a more modern take on historic venues.
St Paul History Center. A working history center during the day and a gem of St Paul in the evenings.
Renaissance Depot. This converted train station turned hotel sits in downtown Minneapolis.
Favorite Photos from Weddings at Aria
Over the years, I photographed many weddings and events at Aria. I’m so proud to have been there to celebrate, to laugh, and to create some beautiful images.
Planning a wedding in Minneapolis?
If you are looking for a photographer for your Minneapolis wedding, I’d love to connect with you! You deserve to relive all the energy and excitement of your event through the images!
