Melissa Oholendt | Minnesota Wedding & Lifestyle Photography

Casey had pre-warned me that little Colby Jack would likely steal the show. And I’m sure at the time, she thought I was a rational, normal “hey, dogs are pretty cool” type of person; unaware that I am more of a “click, click, click, oh wait you want photos of more than just your dog?” type of person. Stealing the show is an understatement but since I’m pretty sure Colby is the closest thing to John & Casey’s hearts besides each other? I was in good company.

Also, Casey? Is the Casey in Casey V Photography and this woman can wield a camera like nobody’s business. (And she frequently posts photos of Colby Jack on her blog. Enough said.) Go visit!

Dearest Casey & John. Thank you for entrusting me to photograph your family and for not making fun of me (or running away terrified) when my crazy-dog lady came out. It means the world. PS – HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!! xo

Lauren & Matt. I have a confession to make, this blog post took me longer to write than any other post this year. Certainly not due to of lack of feelings but because of an overwhelming emotion of love and heartfelt elation I still to this very day feel about you both as a couple and most recently, your wedding day. You both expressed to me on separate occasions under different circumstances that this was more than just planning a wedding, it was the preparation of a marriage and, to me, nothing else stood out more on your day than that sentiment.

When you spoke to your family & friends asking them to play active participants in your marriage and to hold you to the vows you were about to enter into, it addressed your commitment to each other and to God but also the knowledge that a healthy and happy marriage is a vital component of the community you have created here. As your fathers & best friends gave their toasts in honor of your newly joined union, it was so clear to everyone in that restaurant that as much as you are adored and revered as individuals, you are most definitely treasured even more so as a couple. Just as Beau said in his toast, there is sure to be a lot of love in your house.

Much, much love to the new Henry family. xo

Ceremony Location: Lyndale Perennial Gardens
Reception Location: Grand Cafe
Bride’s Dress: Che Bella
Hair & Make-Up: Root Salon
Groom’s Suit: Heimie’s Haberdashery
Floral: Amelia Flower & Garden Shoppe
Invites & Thank You Notes designed by Jovaney Hollingsworth
Chair Rentals: Après Party Rentals
Musicians: Patty and the Buttons
Cakes: Turtle Bread Company

Thanks to my wonderful, amazing, fabulous second shooter, Monika Rae Photography!

As Anna’s dad spoke about how important the gathering of the families was, his voice, heavy with emotion, broke as he looked to his daughter and his new son and raised his glass in honor of the bride & groom and the coming together of two families to be one. In that very moment, you would have had to search hard to find a dry eye in the room. It spoke volumes to the happiness of the day; the kind of happiness that doesn’t happen without an outward demonstration of emotion. The kind of happiness that doesn’t happen unless a day – or in this case, a couple – is the absolute definition of perfection. Not perfect in deed but certainly perfect for each other.

Anna & Chad. I’m not even sure I have the words for how much I loved your wedding day. From the snickers & Jo Malone in the bridal suite to Brady & Moke’s appearance on your wedding cake, the day could not have been more fun and most importantly, 100% you guys; even down to the hops in the floral arrangements. You two are something entirely special and it’s nearly a certainty that I have started to mourn the fact that I won’t have a specific purpose to see you both on a regular basis. So. Maybe keep an eye on your suitcases for the cruise. Or don’t. I’d be ok with that. xo

Ceremony & Reception Location: Campus Club at the University of Minnesota
Bride’s Dress: Mestads
Bridesmaid’s Dresses: Priscilla of Boston
Hair: Tres Jolie Salon
Make-up: Mariah’s Beauty Marks
Groom’s Suit: Heimie’s Haberdashery
Floral: A Day in Provence
Save the Dates, Invites & Programs designed by Sarah Goldschadt
Rentals: Ultimate Events
Cakes: Keys Cafe & Bakery
DJ: Ben Bigelow
Photobooth: Fabulous Photobooth

Many thanks to my second shooter, the awesome Monika Rae Photography!