Jake + Joy | A Spring Wedding at Bertram Park, Monticello MN

Some wedding days just have that spark—the kind that stays with you long after the lights go out and the dance floor empties. Jake and Joy’s wedding day on May 17th, 2025 was one of those unforgettable celebrations: full of heart, laughter, a few joyful tears, and a whole lot of love. From getting glammed up at LUX Salon in the morning to their heartfelt vows by the lake and the epic dance party that capped off the night, it was the kind of day that makes me so grateful to do what I do. Here’s a little peek into their beautiful Minnesota wedding day…

The day began just as every joyful wedding day should: with laughter, coffee, and girl time. Joy and her bridesmaids gathered at LUX Salon, where Mariah and Sarah worked their magic turning these already radiant girls into a stunning crew. There was music playing, plenty of stories and giggles flying, and the kind of relaxed, happy energy that set the tone for the rest of the day.One of my favorite parts of wedding mornings is watching the anticipation build—and this crew wore their excitement on their sleeves (and in their perfectly curled hair!). Joy was all smiles, her energy a blend of giddy nerves and peaceful joy. Once hair and makeup were finished, we all made our way to the beautiful Bertram Chain of Lakes Regional Park in Monticello—the perfect blend of natural beauty and cozy charm. The girls tucked into the chalet building to change into their dresses, eat a quick lunch, and relax before the real excitement began. The rustic charm of the chalet was such a sweet backdrop as Joy’s mom, Jane, helped her into her gown. That quiet, heartfelt moment was everything. Jane adjusted the straps, and zipped her up. Then came the big reveal: Joy’s dad walked in for a father-daughter first look, and ohhh boy, the tears were flowing. There’s something so deeply moving about watching a father see his daughter as a bride for the first time. It was a moment full of tenderness, pride, and love—and one I won’t soon forget. Next up: Jake’s first look with his bride. We made our way down to the water’s edge where the tall trees and gentle ripples created the most serene setting. Jake turned around to see Joy his whole face lit up with joy. They shared a quiet moment, just the two of them, tucked away from the flurry of the day. I always love when couples take this time to connect before the ceremony—it slows everything down and gives them space to simply be together. You could feel the weight of the moment settle in as they hugged, laughed, and took a deep breath before all the fun to come. With their first look behind them, it was time for portraits! Jake and Joy were joyful, relaxed, and clearly so in love.

After that, it was time for the bridal party to join in. Let me just say—this crew brought the energy! Fun poses and lots of laughter… it was such a blast capturing their goofy, sweet dynamic. The group’s vibe was truly a reflection of Jake and Joy’s personalities: warm, playful, and welcoming to everyone. And then came the surprise prop of the day: Jake’s fishing pole. Because what’s a Minnesota groom without one, right?! He had this fun idea to take a photo on the fishing pier with Joy and their adorable little niece and nephew had to tag along of course! We headed out to the dock, and it was perfection. Joy’s dress swayed in the breeze, Jake held his pole proudly, and their littlest wedding guests beamed beside them. Then we transitioned into family portraits, and everything went off without a hitch. The kids rocked it (even in the cool weather!), and we were able to breeze through the list with ease. The amphitheater area provided a peaceful, wind-blocked spot to keep everyone comfortable while still capturing the natural beauty of the park. After warming up and touching up inside the chalet, it was ceremony time! Guests began arriving and filling the benches, their eyes drawn to the lake shimmering behind the ceremony space. It was a bit chilly for May, but honestly? You wouldn’t have known it. The love in the air kept everyone warm.

Joy’s cousin Nick officiated the ceremony, which added such a meaningful, personal touch. He balanced the happy tears and heartfelt laughs perfectly. Joy and Jake wrote their own vows, and let me tell you—there wasn’t a dry eye in the crowd. Their words were sweet, genuine, and totally them. Then came the kiss, the cheers, and the start of their married life! They took a moment to greet each guest as they exited. That little personal moment with each loved one makes all the difference. From Bertram Park, everyone made their way to The V, where the celebration continued. The venue was decked out in twinkle lights and personal touches—warm, cozy, and filled with thoughtfulness. One of my favorite surprises was a sweet tribute from Joy to her parents: a mini replica of their wedding bell cake! Her aunt made the cake herself, and it actually swung like a real bell! Such a unique and touching gesture. As the bridal party made their grand entrance, the room erupted in cheers. After a loving prayer, everyone enjoyed a delicious meal catered by The V—and let’s just say, guests were very happy. Jake and Joy then cut their cake, which was every bit as beautiful and meaningful as the rest of the day. Guests also enjoyed a spread of homemade cupcakes, lovingly made by Joy’s aunt. Then came the toasts, which were a perfect mix of humor and heart. Joy’s dad, Tim, kicked things off with—you guessed it—some top-notch dad jokes (he really committed!). But behind the laughs were sweet words of wisdom and pride. Jake’s dad followed with a few heartfelt words before we heard from Rachel, the maid of honor and Joy’s cousin. Her speech was full of shared memories, laughter, and a line that made everyone tear up: "I hope you enjoy growing old with her as much as I did growing up with her." Cue the tissues! Clint, Jake’s brother and best man, wrapped up the toasts with a good mix of brotherly love and good-natured jokes. As the formalities wrapped up, it was time to slow things down for the first dances. Tim and Joy danced first, swaying together in a moment of deep father-daughter love. Then Jake and his mom, Kathy, shared a tender mother-son dance that had everyone smiling. And finally, Joy and Jake took the floor for their first dance as husband and wife—the beginning of this exciting new chapter. After that? The lights went off, the party lights came on, and the DJ cranked up the volume. The dance floor stayed packed all night long, with everyone getting in on the action. From little cousins to grandparents, the joy was contagious. The little ones were shining stars on the dance floor—twirling, laughing, and breaking out moves that had the whole room clapping along. Jake and Joy’s wedding day was everything you hope a wedding day could be. Full of love, family, heartfelt moments, and the kind of laughter that echoes through the trees and sticks with you long after the last song plays.

It was an absolute honor to capture their day, from the first lipstick swipe at the salon to the final spin on the dance floor. Jake and Joy, thank you for trusting me to tell your story. Your love is radiant and grounded, silly and sweet—and photographing your day was pure joy. Here’s to a lifetime of fishing dates, cupcake toasts, and dancing like nobody’s watching!