Rich and Alissa were married on Friday!

There is really just one word to describe Alissa and Rich…genuine.  Every smile, every bit of emotion, every tear, they are kind, funny, smart, and surround themselves with people that fit those descriptors too.  They do life well.  John and I were laughing the entire time.  We had to be on our toes to keep up with this crazy group and their antics.  We felt welcomed and invited in, everyone was so warm and whip smart funny.  The ceremony, officiated by a friend, was part roast, part stand up comedy routine and part love poem.  Even though it was freezing outside, the group had huge smiles on their face and made the most of it.  The reception was a raucous lively event full of amazing music, happy tears, and excellent dance moves.  Genuine.

The day started at Jungle Red Salon where the girls got ready (and had the most amazing bridal snack set up ever) and at brunch with the groomsmen.  The afternoon was spent in and around their wedding venue for an exuberant first look and photographic adventure that took us all over the neighborhood, even ducking into a bar or two to warm up. We shared the day with Kan Corcoran Productions and worked side by side to capture all the love. The couple were super stylish in their attire, Alissa’s gown was from Flutter Boutique, and Rich’s suit came from J Crew.

The ceremony and reception took place at Lowertown Event Center, where the exposed stone and barn wood provided a chic backdrop to the elegant simple floral designs by Luna Vinca.  Fun personal style was added with custom place cards designed by Jesse Hughes on hand made wooden stands made by the bride’s father.  The fun details also extended to the food, with hot dog appetizers from Brie Cater and milk and cookies from The Buttered Tin for dessert.  Instant Request kept the dance lively and we even got to witness an homage to Prince.

A lovely day with a fantastic couple who are so head over heels in love with each other!  And now…the pictures.  Enjoy!

Some jumps of joy happened at the first site.  They were so excited to see each other!!!

The ladies danced in the cold to stay warm between portraits.  I love Minnesota brides!  They are tough cookies in all weather!

When we asked for a sexy picture, this group knew exactly what to do.  Nailed it.

Snuggles from mom!

Oh yeah, this is at the point where we were in a bar to get warm and we actually expected the groomsmen to put down their beers for a picture.

And then John found THIS LIGHT.  YES PLEASE!

The ceremony was a riot.  I’ve never laughed so hard…and I’m pretty sure half the jokes went over my head.  He even referenced Roadhouse as the prime source for how to make a relationship work.  Pretty impressive.

Time to party!

Rich and Alissa, thank you so much for having us be a part of your day.  We truly cherished witnessing your love and getting to know your friends and family.  Enjoy the sneak peek!!!