“Swim, until you can’t see land
are you a man? Are you a bag of sand?”
– Frightened Rabbit
I don’t know any other way to do things than with my whole intention. That is how I jumped into wedding photography 10 years ago. So, when the opportunity came to be at the forefront of a new Magazine about the Upper Midwest, I knew that I had to go in full force or not contribute at all. To say it has been a busy fall would be an understatement, and the support of my husband and friends has allowed me to continue the wedding photography business that I love while putting out Hearten Magazine in its print form.
Hearten is a magazine about gatherings in the New North. As a region, we are really terrible at telling out stories – we are a stoic and subtle people, and not prone to praising ourselves. But, if we don’t, then next year New York will claim it invented pie, or California will develop a cranberry industry, instead of the innovative and practical problem solvers that we are. So, Hearten has some coverage about food, and parties, and travel, and libations. There are some real events, and a small gift guide.
And we also came together with several of our best supporters to host this modern Nordic dinner. The style is an homage to 70s fondue chic as well as modern Scandinavian design – both of which are true to the realities of being in the Upper Midwest. We gather for warmth, and we gather for community.
I was so honored to photograph this dinner and event for the magazine. And you can pick up a copy at Common Good Books in St Paul or Magers and Quinn in Minneapolis (or online at HeartenNorth.com)
Concept and Food: Chowgirls Catering
Styling and floral: Bash Collective
Location: Solar Arts by Chowgirls
Menus: Printerette Press
Smoked Fish: Everett’s Foods & Meats
Photography: Becca Dilley Photography
Rentals: Rentivist and
Fabulous Furniture (couches, chairs, wooden tables), Beverly & Co (Pillows, flatware, and white table), Rudy’s Event Rentals (Chairs), Midway Party Rentals (China), Bash Collective (Pottery, Geodes, Glassware, food displays)




































