Jon and Emily were married today!

On this blustery morning, Nicollet Commons Park was transformed into a beautiful ceremony site.  With white fabric blowing in the wind, eucalyptus topiary and sprays of yellow roses lining the aisle, and a string quartet playing, Emily made her grand entrance.  There were many touching moments during the ceremony which was officiated by the same pastor that married Emily’s parents years ago and the couples’ vows were so sweet.  After an exuberant first kiss, Jon and Emily led their guests into the Burnsville Performing Arts Center for the reception.

Emily designed an English Garden theme for the reception space.  She had escort cards in little pots sitting on a moss runner, and her flowers were ruffled and lush and fresh.  All of the lovely flowers were created by a family friend and the bright yellows, ruffled whites and fragrant eucalyptus perfectly matched the rest of the details, including fabric medallion boutonnieres for the guys.  Each cupcake (from Byerlys) was topped with a yellow rose.  Her handmade programs featured butterflies and each guest was handed a fan to keep themselves cool.  Since the space was so modern, Emily gave her centerpieces a more fun look with lemons and limes and a sleek design for the table numbers, linens, and menu.  Jon is a graphic designer so he worked on the pieces as well and made a darling “I Spy” game for all of the kids in attendance.  One of the lovely things about a morning wedding is that you get to spend way more of your day with family and friends.  Everyone enjoyed a fantastic lunch by Mediterranean Cruise Cafe (seriously the best Greek food I’ve ever had!) and chatting with family and friends. 

After lunch, we walked around the area for pictures.  Emily was just stunning in her gown from The Wedding Shoppe, and the guys matched the moss green color scheme well with their gray tuxes from Savvi.  I loved Jon’s personal touch of using his own white shoes, and that the girls had pockets in their dresses…a must have in my book! 

Since by then it was pretty hot and humid we found shady spots for pictures and were so happy when a gust of wind cooled us down.  When portraits were done, the very warm bridesmaids stood in the fountains, and Jon and Emily joined in as well.  And by then we had only accomplished half of our day!

The second reception took place at Emily’s childhood home.  All of the centerpieces and linens were dual purposed and this time there was a much more casual atmosphere.  Emily changed into a second dress, from White House Black Market, and the guys put on shorts.  The swimming pool was available for anyone ready to take a dip and Divine Swine brought in a roasted pig.  The entire evening was full of laughter, good food, great beer, splashes (and some belly flops), fun music and sunshine.  It was exactly what Jon and Emily wanted. 

Jon and Emily, thank you so much for having us be a part of your day and warmly welcoming us into your family.  Here are our favorite images, enjoy!  (and yes, John won this blog, most of the images are his!)  ; )