Rochester MN Area Wedding & Prom Magazine

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Real Wedding Stories 2022 Connect Media MN

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Your wedding is a big event.

The Mayo Civic Center is the perfect location to accommodate wedding ceremonies and receptions of all sizes and features the largest ballroom in Minnesota.

The professional staff at Mayo Civic Center will assist you every step of the way to create a memorable day.

Contact: Shannon Fredrickson Sales Manager, Mayo Civic Center

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Wedding VOLUME 16 ISSUE 1 2022 PUBLISHERS Cindy Schumacher & George Wright Connect Media, LLC CREATIVE DIRECTOR Lindsay Lewis GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Tessa Slisz Becky Daum Lindsay Lewis CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Thelma Grimes Forrest Dailey Erin Young DIRECTORS OF CUSTOMER HAPPINESS George Wright Cindy Schumacher DISTRIBUTION Connect Media Delivery Service

Rochester Area

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Wedding & Prom

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Vows That Wow!

Real Wedding Stories 2022 Connect Media MN

Tips For A FAbulous reheArsAl Dinner

For Information: Call/Text: 507-884-8265 or email Hello@ConnectMediaMN.com www.RochesterWeddingMagazine.com Rochester Area Wedding Magazine is published annually

by Connect Media, LLC

Galleria At University Square

111 South Broadway | Rochester, MN 55904 | 507.280.6419

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

The Rochester Area Wedding Magazine does not necessarily endorse the claims or contents of advertising or editorial materials.

C O N T E N T S 8 12 18 26 28 44 48

Features

Tips For a Stress-Free Wedding Reception Hire A Wedding Coordinator Wedding Plan Checklist Are Electronic Wedding Invitations Tacky?

Vows That Wow Children & Weddings Go Hand In Hand 5 Tips For A Fabulous Rehearsal Dinner

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Wedding $$$ How To Choose The Perfect Venue Men Get Married Too Real Wedding - Audra & Adam Real Wedding - Taylor & Drew Real Wedding - Riley & Nick Wedding Directory

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JACIE LEWIS, SALES MANAGER JACIE.LEWIS@HILTON.COM 507.280.8888 RochesterWeddingMagazine.com

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10 Tips for a

STRESS-FREE

WEDDING RECEPTION If the moment the officiant announces the happy couple to the world is the highlight of a wedding day, then the wedding reception is surely a close second. Naturally a bride or groom wants everything about the big day to go perfectly, but with the many moving parts involved in a reception, it’s often viewed as the one part of the wedding where things can go wrong.

Following these ten tips can help ensure that your wedding day goes off without a hitch (except for the “getting hitched” part.)

1

Consider full-service Many wedding venues offer options of full-service catering, decorating, entertainment, etc. While the price is usually higher to have one point person handle the entire event for you, it’s usually worth it. Acting as your own general-contractor of sorts, and planning out everything from hors d’oeuvres to the guest book can be exhausting. If it works for your budget, and if you don’t want to be too involved behind the scenes at your own reception, then consider going full-service.

2

Keep expenses realistic You may be tempted to go overboard with reception planning. Afterall, you want all of your guests to be as happy with the day as you are. But, nothing will bring you down more during your reception than counting costs in the back of your mind. Your attention should be on your new partner and your family and friends, and not worrying about whether or not you’re running out of free alcohol. There’s nothing worse than counting on wedding gift cash to help pay for the party. Making reception plans based on a realistic budget will help keep your event stress-free.

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Have options for food You might think it’s easier to have just two or even only one option for food at the reception, but consider going with more options if it works with your venue and caterer. The more options for food at the wedding, the happier the wedding attendees are, and the more successful the whole day can be. While beef or chicken are the staples, be sure to consider vegetarian, vegan, gluten free, and other options. It’s a great way to let your guests know that you’re thinking of their dietary needs, and want them to have a good time too.

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Be careful with seating Let’s face it, you already know your spouse’s uncle Larry shouldn’t be talking politics with your cousin Diane, and so on. It’s best for everyone if those two are seated as far away as possible. It’s your day, and you control the seating chart, so feel free to use those powers for good. We all have those certain family members who are invited basically just because they’re a relative. Got a chatty aunt? Pair her up at a table with your spouse’s hard-of-hearing sister. You never know, you might just be kicking off a lifelong friendship between the two.

5

Preview the entertainment If you’re hiring a band or a DJ to play your wedding reception, ask for an opportunity to see them live. You’re not necessarily inviting yourself to someone else’s wedding reception, but just ask if you can just peak into the venue and see them in action.

Likely they’ve already shared with you a YouTube highlight reel, but there’s nothing wrong with asking to see for yourself. Many DJ services have a number of different DJs working for them and you don’t know which one you’ll get until they show up. If you’re promised Johnny Rocker and end up with Suzy Sad Songs, you’ll wish you had checked ahead of time.

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6

Double check the playlist Speaking of music, keeping the audience in mind will help avoid a potentially embarrassing situation. The music of choice of the wedding party may not be the favorite songs of the grandparents in attendance, and that’s OK. But, consider the grandparents (and parents, aunts, uncles, children, etc.) when choosing dance songs.

It’s OK to make a rule with your DJ that no “adult language” songs be played until after a certain time to ensure that both the old folks and the young kids have left for the evening.

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Keep parents busy If there’s one thing that stresses couples out on wedding days, it’s the parents. Consider that a busy parent is less likely to want to meddle in too many plans or make too many lastminute recommendations. Give each parent (or parent figure) a project, and tell them it’s really important to you that the one thing they’re in charge of goes well. That gives each parent enough to do to keep them out of your way, and also lets them feel like they’re contributing as an integral part of the event.

Rochester Area Wedding Magazine, 2022

Get pictures While official wedding photographer albums are great, you’ll also want to remember the day through the eyes of your wedding attendees. Encourage everyone to take pictures and share them, whether through social media, or emailing them to you after the fact. It’s a great way to catch all the action you may have missed while you were deep in wedded bliss. A catchy hashtag can encourage social sharing of the photos and allow you to find them on social media after the event.

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EnjoyEnjoy in moderation in moderation It probably doesn’t doesn’t need to need be said, It probably to be said, but we’ve enough weddings that butseen we’ve seen enough weddings that we know—it needs toneeds be said.

We’ve we know—it to be said. We’ve all been all to been that wedding where the to that wedding where the bride is no longer to hold to hold bride is noallowed longer allowed the microphone becausebecause she drank the microphone she drank enough enough to out-swear the old men in men in to out-swear the old the room, the wedding where the theorroom, or the wedding where the groom isgroom in the isback trying soberto sober in the backtotrying up with up a cup ofacoffee. with cup ofWhile coffee.those While those receptions certainlycertainly may have seemed receptions may have seemed fun to the party at party the time, funwedding to the wedding at the time, there were likely a lot of people there were likely a lot ofrolling people rolling their eyes in the and questioning their eyesroom in the room and questioning the maturity of everyone involved.involved. the maturity of everyone

10 10

StickStick to the totimeline the timeline The day The is allday about andyou, everyone is allyou, about and everyone there knows But, everyone also thereit.knows it. But, everyone also knows there’s certaina expectation knowsathere’s certain expectation of the timing events. of theoftiming of When events.the When the reception is supposed to begin,toitbegin, it reception is supposed needs toneeds begin.toWhile greatit’s forgreat the for the begin.it’s While weddingwedding party toparty take atolimo takecruise a limo cruise from thefrom wedding to the reception, be the wedding to the reception, be sure to keep your guests mind in before sure to keep youringuests mind before you make a stop at your bar you makeoff a stop off favorite at your favorite bar along the way.the Theway. reception venue venue along The reception is likely already with people is likely filled already filled with people expecting food andfood refreshments and expecting and refreshments and the presence of the happy the presence of thecouple. happy couple.

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Rochester Area Wedding Magazine, 2022

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SKIP THE STRESS! Hire a wedding coordinator to make your wedding day vision a reality

By Thelma Grimes

T

he question was popped, the answer is YES! —Now the real work begins. That work being planning an entire wedding. But, before you

start thinking you have to do all the work in finding a venue, florist, DJ and caterer, you might consider hiring a wedding coordinator.

A wedding coordinator gives a couple the ability to skip

The top reasons to hire a wedding coordinator include:

Coordinators stay in budget With a wedding coordinator, everything is discussed up front. This person knows your costs, knows what it acceptable and knows where to find the professionals to fit your needs without breaking the bank.

the stress and truly soak in the wonderful memories that are made on that special day.

Coordinators have an in A wedding coordinator knows the best florists, venues, entertainment, caterers and bakeries. You wouldn’t have to get online and search for each one separately. A wedding planner understands your vision and does the work for you. Let’s not forget, they can also get you discounts with wedding vendors.

Coordinators are project managers Coordinators know how to manage a timeline from start to finish. They know the date, they know what has to be done, and they know what to do to turn your vision into a reality. They do the planning and work leading up to the day, and on the wedding day, they coordinate everything from the walk down the aisle to the toasts at the reception.

Coordinators save you time Coordinators know where to find what is needed and can set up meetings, dates and also collect everything from gifts, cake toppers and special memorabilia at the end of the night. They work to take the pressure off you in every aspect.

At the end of that special day, you will realize a wedding coordinator was an investment in happiness.

507.202.7964 CASSIEWESTEVENTS.COM Photo by Meg Cooper Photography

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Photo by Meg Cooper Photography

WEDDING PLANNING | EVENT DESIGN | DAY OF COORDINATION LET US HELP YOU TRULY TAKE IN EVERY MOMENT RochesterWeddingMagazine.com

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CHECKLIST

to Plan Your Perfect Wedding

We’ve all been to weddings that have felt “effortless and fabulous.” The secret behind those seamless celebrations is that they were thoughtfully and thoroughly planned…from the seemingly insignificant details through the biggest decisions. Here at Rochester Area Weddings, it’s our mission to take the guesswork out of the process, and to help you create the wedding of your dreams.

S

While your wedding should be as individual as you are, we’ve compiled a general checklist to help you start planning the celebration to mark the first day of the rest of your life!

12 MONTHS BEFORE □ Settle on a budget. More than any other single factor, the budget for your big day will make all of the decisions that follow that much simpler. Be sure to factor in the money you and your partner plan to spend, as well as any contributions from family. □ Decide the size. Once you’ve established a budget, the next step is to decide how large you want your celebration to be. You may want to share this day with everyone in your life, but keep in mind that the size of your guest list directly affects how over-thetop you can go on all of the details. □ Bridesmaids and Groomsmen. It’s smart to know who you’d like to invite to join your wedding party well in advance, so those closest to you can plan to be there for you.

□ Location, location, location. Popular wedding venues can book long in advance, so don’t delay on determining the location(s) of the ceremony and the reception. Find your spot and reserve your date. If they’re not in the same vicinity, you’ll want to allow plenty of time for guests to get from one place to the next. □ DIY or hire a planner. Believe it or not, 12 months in advance is not too soon to start researching caterers, florists, photographers, bands, etc. As with venues, the top pros can be booked long in advance. An experienced wedding planner can be a big help in recommending the best vendors to fit your budget.

6-9 MONTHS BEFORE □ Spread the word. People often plan vacations and other events far in advance, so you’ll want to make sure to send save-the-date cards to the family and friends who will make your day special. □ Say yes to the dress. Finding just the right dress is something that shouldn’t be rushed. Once you do find your dress, plan on several fittings to make sure it’s tailored to fit you just right. And don’t forget the veil! □ Hire vendors. That “effortless and fabulous” wedding we alluded to in the intro often comes down to this step. Make sure you get references—then check them. If they’ve overpromised and underdelivered at someone else’s wedding, then keep looking. Once you’ve identified the right photographer and videographer, the right caterer, the right florist, and the right entertainment—book ‘em.

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□ Bridemaids’ dresses. Another detail that can surprise first-time brides is the time required to get your bridesmaids’ dresses ordered and sized. Do this at least six months in advance. □ Gift registries. It’s smart to register with at least three retailers, to give your friends and family a range of choices (of products and prices) that they’re comfortable with—and that you’d love to receive.

3-6 MONTHS BEFORE □ Order Invitations. Finalize the wording and design of your wedding invitations, and make sure to see and touch samples of the paper stock to make sure they have the look and feel you desire. □ It’s all in the timing. Sit down with paper and pencil (or keyboard and mouse) and start planning out how the day will flow. Doing this, from the ceremony itself through the dinner, dancing, and music is a great tool to help you visualize the day—and ensure there are no scheduling snafus. □ The ceremony itself. Meet with the person who will officiate your wedding. This is your day, so it’s critical that you’re comfortable with the details of the ceremony, and that you know exactly what official documents are needed. □ Order the cake. Like other vendors who should be booked far in advance, you’ll want to make sure that the baker you choose (after several tastings, of course) is available to create the cake for your big day. □ The rings, please. To make sure the rings you select are a style you’re comfortable spending the rest of your life with, and to provide ample time for customizing (sizing, engraving, etc.), three months out is a safe time frame.

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□ Destination: honeymoon! Whether you plan to travel to some exotic locale or keep it simple, now’s the time to start mapping this out. The last thing you want is to be tripped up by last-minute details—like a passport and vaccinations.

1-2 MONTHS BEFORE

□ Send invitations. There are many conflicting “rules of thumb” detailing when to send wedding invitations.

Brides.com recommends setting your RSVP date for four weeks after you mail the invitations, giving guests plenty of time to respond. We suggest mailing invites eight weeks before the event.

□ Assign seating. When you leave seating to chance, you run the risk of separating friends and family members. Sketch out the room, complete with number of tables and seats per table, and get to work assigning guests to tables with others whom they’ll enjoy. Your friends and family will appreciate it.

□ Finalize details. It’s close enough to the event, but still far enough out, to make final decisions on flowers and menu items, as well as transportation, wedding favors, readings during the ceremony (who will read, and what they’ll read), music (what you do and do not want played) send event schedule to vendors and make sure any and all questions have been answered.

□ Bridesmaids’ gifts. This time-honored tradition is a wonderful way of thanking your bridesmaids for being a big part of your big day. Make it something special, as they’ll likely treasure it for years.

□ Transportation. Now’s the time to schedule a limo (to deliver you and your partner in style), or mini-buses (to get your guests from the wedding to the reception and back, if necessary).

□ Timing is everything. The week of your wedding, make sure to connect personally with each vendor and confirm the time, date and address.

And it doesn’t hurt to thank them in advance for doing everything they can to make your wedding extra special!

□ Meet with photographer/videographer. Long after your big day, the photos and video will serve as priceless memories of your wedding day. Sit down with your photographer and videographer to make sure they understand what you expect, and discuss any fun suggestions that they may have.

□ Hair and makeup artists. Make sure you’ve scheduled time with your chosen hair and makeup artists for them to work their magic on you—or you and your bridesmaids.

□ Hotel block. If you have family and friends coming from out of town, this is an important detail, especially if they’d like the convenience of spending time together, pre-wedding. Reach out to hotels to learn what options they offer for wedding parties.

THE FINAL WEEKS □ Marriage license. Time to make it official. This is typically a quick process—but “typically” is not something you can take to the bank. Make sure to do this a couple of weeks in advance to avoid any bad surprises. □ The RSVP database. Make sure you know how many invited guests are coming, and how many of them are bringing a guest. Armed with a headcount, you can confidently order food and drink to fit your headcount and your budget.

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Wedding Invitations Tacky?

Are Electronic

By Forrest Dailey

It’s time to talk about something all too real. Is it tacky to send out electronic wedding invitations? Maybe “tacky” is a strong word. Is it socially acceptable? Is it a good idea?

There are very reasonable arguments on both sides of the debate.

The first consideration is your grandma. Yeah. Your grandma. Does she even have an email address? Okay actually she probably does. It’s 2021. Believe it or not though, not everybody, young or old, does. It would be tacky not to invite them. Obviously you’re not going to let that happen, so first and foremost, before you do anything, think long and hard about the guests who you’ll need to mail an invitation.

Nah...

•

Visibility – We are a society that increasingly lives on-line. So maybe an electronic invitation would be right there in front of you as you go about your daily life. But the kitchen refrigerator has long been – and remains -- the center of our world at home.

That is why, down the ages, people have stuck any important document (appointments, bills, wedding invitations…) to the fridge so as not to forget. It’s the original Google Calendar.

•

Speaking of visibility… – You’re probably more likely to miss an invite in your spam filter than to have one lost in the mail. Thankfully if you’ve been invited to the wedding, the subject will likely come up at some point between you and the couple, or with another attendee. If you don’t get the invitation, they can still get you RSVP’d.

•

Invitations are a physical keepsake – Again, as much time as we spend online, having an electronic invitation saved somewhere on your device is just as good as it was to keep it in a scrap book in the old days. But you might just get a link to the invitation on a site, so you will not always have access to that piece of virtual memorabilia.

•

Classic – People are less and less interested in the classic, the traditional. And that’s fine. As we speak, this generation is creating what will one day, in turn, be the new classic. But with every generation there will always be those throwback types. If that sounds like you, electronic invitations may not be your cup of tea.

Aside from those technological holdouts, what are the yays and the nahs of electronic invitations?

Yay! •

They save paper – Going paperless in any aspect of our lives is good. It is environmentally friendly. Not all physical wedding invitations are made from cut-down trees though, and most are quite bio-degradable. An e-invite means less clutter for your friends and family, but honestly, who is receiving a wedding invitation and saying “great, where am I going to stuff this thing now?”

•

•

•

More room for creativity – There is simply more you can do with an electronic invitation than you could with a piece of card stock. Depending on where you get them and how much you want to spend, you can include animation and music which can really make for a beautiful piece of art.

Much lower cost – Going paperless is very likely going to be a lot less expensive. You skip the postage on probably hundreds of invitations along with just as many return envelopes. You’ll just be paying a fee for the service.

It’s the 21st century – The tides of time roll by and with them go the old ways of doing things. What’s the point of technology if you don’t use it? With electronic invites, it’s faster to send them out and get your RSVP back. Also, who even sends things through the mail anymore?

It all comes down to what you value, and only you can decide what tips the scale one way or the other for you.

Because it involves so many different factors, I think we can say without a doubt that electronic wedding invitations are not “tacky.” So put that out of your mind and make your invitations reflect who you are in whichever format works for you.

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How To Write

VOWS WOW that

F

rom our view at Rochester Area Weddings, the countless details and planning that go into a wedding pale in importance to the singular reason that brought everyone together: the promise of a couple’s life together. More than any other single moment, emotions run high when two individuals put into words the promise that will bind them together as a couple.

You may want to write your own wedding vows…or not. Whichever it is, this piece is for you. If yes, we’ve compiled some tips to help you share the “why” behind the “I do.” If not, we’ve put together some sample vows, that you’re free to use as is or modify and make your own.

Wedding vows are, and should be, as individual as the people tying the knot.

The single most important piece of advice we have for anyone as they work on this element of their big day is this: Be real. Nothing is more powerful than the genuine reasons that brought you to this point. Without question, the very best vows are those that capture the fun, or the seriousness, or the quirkiness, or the solemnity…whatever it is that brought you together.

If the words are real, the vows will wow.

Traditional

WEDDING VOWS I, , commit myself to , as wife/husband/ you, partner, for a lifetime of experiences, to learn and grow with, to explore and adventure with, to respect you in everything as an equal partner. I do this knowing that our life together will bring joy and pain, strength and weariness, direction and doubt, for all the dawns and dusks to come. We tie these symbolic knots to proclaim and celebrate our connection. They represent our trust in each other and the sum of our combined strength.

On this day, surrounded by friends, family, and people who love us, I , to be my life choose you, partner. I am proud to be your wife/ husband/partner and to forever join my life with yours. I vow to support you, push you, inspire you, and love you, for better or worse, in sickness and health, for richer or poorer, as long as we both shall live.

, take you, , I, to be the wife/husband/partner of my days, the companion of my house, the friend of my life. We shall bear together trouble and sorrow, as well as shall share the good and joyful things life may bring us. With these words, I marry you and bind my life to yours.

Modern

WEDDING VOWS I, , take you as you are, loving who you are now and who you are yet to become. I promise to listen to you and learn from you, to support you and accept your support. I will celebrate your triumphs and mourn your losses as though they were my own. I will love you and have faith in your love for me, through all that life may bring us in all our years.

, take you, , to be my spouse. I vow to I, choose you every day, to love you in word and deed, to do the hard work of making now into always. To laugh with you and cry with you, to grow with you and create with you. To honor all that makes you who you are. To be your partner in all of life’s adventures. Loving what I know of you and trusting what I don’t yet know, I give you my hand. I give you my love. I give you myself. Will you give me yourself? Will you come travel with me?

, do pledge you, , all of my love, for I, as long as I live. What I possess in this world, I give to you. I will keep you and hold you, comfort and tend you, protect you and shelter you, for all the days of my life.

Personal I love you unconditionally and without hesitation. I vow to love you, encourage you, trust you, and respect you. We will create a home filled with learning, laughter, and compassion. I promise to work with you to foster and nurture a relationship of equality knowing that we will build a far better life together than either of us could create alone. Today, I choose you to be my husband/wife/partner.

I accept you as you are today, and who you will become, and I offer myself in return. I will respect you, support you, and share with you all of life’s adversities and all of its joys for all the days of my life.

WEDDING VOWS I promise to laugh with you in times of joy, and comfort you in times of sorrow. I vow to share in your dreams and support you as you work to make them happen. I will listen to you with understanding, and speak to you with encouragement.

Together, let us build a home filled with love, learning, laughter, shared freely with all who enter. Let us be partners, friends, and lovers, today and all of the days that follow, for the rest of our lives.

, take you, , to be my husband/wife/partner. I vow to always be your biggest fan and your partner in crime. I promise to create and nurture a family together, in a home rich with laughter, patience, understanding, and love. I promise to not just grow old together, but to grow together. I will love you faithfully through the tough times, and the smooth. What may come, I will always be there, each one believing that love never dies.

As I have given you my hand to hold, so I give you my life to keep. Because there’s nothing we can’t do together.

I,

Romantic WEDDING VOWS

, you are my best friend and most important person in my world. I promise to laugh with you, cry with you, grow with you, and to always have you in my heart. I will love you when we are together as well as when we are apart. I vow to support your dreams and to respect our differences, and to always love you through all the days and nights of our lives.

, choose you, , I, exactly as you are. I love what I know of you, and trust those things I’ve yet to discover. I will respect you as a person, a partner, and an equal. There is little for me to say now that you haven’t already heard, and little to give that is not already freely given. Even before you asked me, I was already yours and I am devoted to you in every way. I marry you with no hesitation or doubt, and my commitment to you is absolute. I can’t imagine spending the rest of my life with anyone but you.

. To stand by your I choose you, side and sleep in your arms. To be joy to your heart and food for your soul. To learn with you and grow with you, for all the days of our lives. I vow to laugh with you in good times and struggle alongside you in bad times. I promise to respect you and cherish you as an individual, a partner, and an equal, knowing that we do not complete each other. Instead, we complement each other. I vow to love you as we begin a life of shared adventures, as we walk the path forward together.

Book Your Wedding DJ Today!

Let’s Plan Your Wedding There’s a reason why Ever After Entertainment is Rochester, MN’s highest rated wedding dj company, and it’s because we care about you and your wedding guests. You want a DJ who knows how to read the dance floor and we’ll do our best to keep it packed! Your DJ will keep your wedding flowing without any hokey pokey DJ gimmicks because we hate awkward moments. We also promise to play your requests, and promise to not play songs on your DO NOT PLAY list.

Your Party, Your way.

No awkward moments!

Promise to Play Tell us what you want, what you really really want. Add it to your Promise to Play list and we’ll make sure you hear it at your event!

Do Not Play List Whatever you do don’t play (insert song)! If you hate that song just tell us… we won’t play it no matter how much they beg us.

Capture the Moment Keep your guests entertained with a photo booth and receive a copy of every snapshot we take. You’ll love it!

507-216-8900

703 S Pointe Ct SW, Rochester, MN 55902

Don’t Worry, We Got This Our DJs are personable, professional, and arrive early to make sure everything’s set up and runs smooth.

Host your next event at Five West. Our private dining room can seat up to 50 guests and can offer customizable menu options for any event. You’re the boss…let us know what you would like, and we will deliver!

The personable service and delicious food will make your next event memorable.

Please Contact Joe Morris at 507-361-5555 ext. 2 JoeMorris@FiveWestRochester.com

SMOAK offers professional catering services for your next special event. We offer catering for weddings, office parties, graduation parties, birthdays and everything in-between.

See our catering menu at Smoakbbqmn.com or Contact Joe Morris at 507-361-7427 ext. 3 JoeMorris@Smoakbbqmn.com

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TREND:

Drone Videos

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507.281.0969 LIMOSTAR.COM

With the increasing popularity of droneS, more couples are capturing the moment from above.

RochesterWeddingMagazine.com

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The perfect place for the perfect wedding weekend.

Secure a block room rate & customize your stay in Rochester, MN.

3 Blocks West of Mayo Gonda Building

VIP WEDDING PACKAGES

Finding the Magical Place for Your Wedding Guests to Stay!

Complimentary wedding welcome signage, customized web page for reservations, and gathering space.

Complimentary king studio suite with fresh roses and gourmet chocolates when you book 20 room nights.

Free transportation (some conditions apply) when you book 30 room nights.

The New TownPlace Suites

by Marriot Rochester Mayo Clinic Area: Home2 Suites by Hilton offers a refreshing extended-stay hotel experience with great value for your guests.

PROUD TO BE RANKED IN THE TOP 3 HOTELS IN ROCHESTER ON TRIP ADVISOR.

507-361-4200

831 16th Street SW • Rochester, MN 55902 RochesterMayoClinicArea.home2SuitesbyHilton.com 38

• Free Extended King Studio Suite with 20 Room Nights* • 1883 Meeting Room for Your Groom’s Dinner* • Spacious Suite Rooms 500-1,000 Square Feet • Complimentary Hot Buffet Breakfast • Limo Shuttle Bus Service Available* • Heated Underground Parking * Subject to availability and certain restrictions may apply

601 2nd Street SW, Rochester, MN 55902

507-361-0050

Marriot.com/RSTTM

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HONEY MOON

IDEAS for Every Type of Couple

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As the anticipation and excitement (dare we say stress?) of the wedding day draws near, couples begin to count on the honeymoon as both a way to celebrate their love and commitment to one another, and also as a welcome reprieve from all the time they’ve put into planning the big day.

Like a perfect life partner, a honeymoon destination has to be compatible — entertaining, adventurous, maybe a little quirky in just the right ways, and certainly romantic. Here are a few ideas we’re sure will match any couple’s personality types.

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Romantic Of course your honeymoon needs to be romantic, but for couples who want to focus on just the romantic parts, Saint Lucia tops almost every list of romantic honeymoon spots. This Caribbean island paradise features the Pitons mountains, rainforests, waterfalls, clear blue skies, and perfect beaches. With a number of all-inclusive resort options, honeymooners in Saint Lucia have plenty of time to focus on romance.

Educational It’s okay to nerd out on your honeymoon just a little; you can’t change who you are, after all. If your shared love of history and/or politics is what brought you and your spouse together, then you might want to explore Washington, D.C. The nation’s capitol features all the likely stops such as a White House tour and a visit to the Smithsonian, yet also offers its share of romantic highlights, including cherry blossoms in the spring, art galleries galore, and historic stroll routes guaranteed to move the mind as well as the heart.

Adventurous While every honeymoon will be romantic, some couples like to express their love while staring down the face of danger. If your idea of romance includes hand-in-hand scuba diving, deep sea fishing, cliff diving, zip lines, and dune buggy races on the beach, then Acapulco, Mexico is for you. More than a spring break or family vacation destination, this Mexican city is also known for its nightlife and entertainment options.

Close To Home For many honeymooners, venturing overseas or even cross-country can be a bit more than the schedule or budget will allow. If that’s the case, a romantic weekend in Duluth may be the perfect match. On the shores of Lake Superior, you can watch ships come into the harbor, hike along woodland trails in a number of nearby state parks, and hunt for agates on pristine freshwater beaches. The town’s revitalized restaurant and brewery scene may just encourage you to extend your stay.

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M E S TA D S YOUR ONE-STOP OASIS FOR BRIDAL

DRESSES & TUXEDOS Mestads is proud to offer hundreds of bridal gowns and tuxedos for you and your wedding party. With a wide variety of designers, silhouettes, and fabrics at a range of price points you will be thrilled to find exactly what you are looking for.

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AT MESTADS

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CHILDREN

&

WEDDINGS go hand-in-hand

When it comes to attending weddings there are always specific things people look at and look for.

How beautiful is the wedding gown? Check on bridesmaids’ dresses and chosen ceremony colors.

And, most of all, how adorable are the children?

There is something special about a group of young ladies dressed to the nines holding the bride’s veil as she walks with her father down the aisle. A young lady and young man, which were supposed to be holding hands, walking awkwardly with the rings and dropping flower petals.

Incorporating children into the wedding ceremony may be somewhat of a headache at times, but there is no doubt they are a crowd pleaser. Whether they are nieces or nephews, or children from previous relationships, there are truly meaningful ways to include them.

Here are some ideas on roles children can take: • Junior Bridesmaid/Groomsman — Maybe you have older children, or teenage family members you are close to. This is a perfect role for them. Just don’t let them get too involved in the bachelor and bachelorette party.

• Reader — This is a great honor for older children, especially those who have become strong readers.

Let them read a passage about marriage or a bible verse.

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• Escorting the bride — This is a fan favorite. Get those little girls and young gentleman on the aisle. No one says the bride’s son can’t be the one to escort her down. Children keeping the veil from dragging on the ground is also a useful and important job.

• Flower Girl/Ring Bearer — This is a great role for younger children.

The flower girl and ring bearer are a longstanding tradition in weddings and, with practice, the children do it well. Just remember to be patient. Even the bravest of children can suddenly become shy.

Rochester Area Wedding Magazine, 2022

• Bouquet holder — If one of your young children is a little shy and might struggle with the idea of all the smiles and “how cutes” coming down the aisle, a good position is the bouquet holder during the ceremony.

While great for a younger child, just remember, a lengthy ceremony could also mean fidgeting and the possibility of looking around and losing track of the job at hand.

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Once assignments are given, the hard work begins. While the photos and memories created on that special day will make you laugh, getting there and what actually happens on the day may be a source of some stress.

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Children may not be willing to do everything you plan, arrange and practice.

That’s where the best advice is to just go with it and follow some of these tips: • Delegate — With smaller children, make sure to get someone to help and keep close watch on the young ones. This person’s role is vital in keeping them calm, comfortable and prepared to do what’s got to be done.

• Practice and practice again — It’s important that a room full of people watching them isn’t a shock on the big day. This means practicing walking up and down the aisle. Put people in the seats to give them a taste of what it will be like.

Grace Sveen Photography

Hayley Bodin Photography

Abby J. Fischer Photography

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• Rewards — If the young children respond to the idea of a reward, don’t be afraid to offer one to ensure they do well.

• Be sensitive — If this is a case where it is a child whose parent is getting married, be understanding and sensitive. At any age, they may be going through some emotions. They also want to be included. Just be patient as they work through the process.

In the end, the pictures and memories will be worth the time and patience that goes into including the children of family and close friends into your big day.

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THE VENUE AT BLEU DUCK KITCHEN About the Event Space We offer an inviting and intimate venue with exposed brick and original hardwood floors.

Celebrate a wedding, host a reception, mingle over cocktails, or give a presentation.

Room Capacity 75 guests for a seated dinner 100 guests for a cocktail party

Rental Prices Tuesday-Thursday $450.00 Friday, Saturday & Sunday $750.00

*Private in-home catering and private bartender options also available.

WHAT’S INCLUDED? Food Offerings

Room Amenities

Hors d'oeuvre selections for a cocktail style party

All 60” round tables

Three Course Dinner: Includes salad, three entrée choices and two dessert choices.

High tops or low tops for cocktail style parties

Four Course Dinner: Includes choices for appetizers, salad, three entrée choices and two dessert choices.

AV equipment; screen, projector

Bar & menus are customizable & can be tailored to your budget.

Guest is responsible for laptop

(seats 6-8 people)

All linens and napkins (both mounted to the ceiling)

Wireless microphone, lavalier.

(We provide HDMI & Mac convertor) (Must be HDMI compatible or Mac)

Contact Leah Fritze at 507-258-4663 or lfritze@bleuduckkitchen.com | BleuDuckKitchen.com

5 Tips for a

FABULOUS REHEARSAL DINNER There was a time when rehearsal dinners were quiet events attended by just the bride and groom, their immediate family members, and the wedding party. Those days are in the past. What was once a small gathering the night before the wedding has turned into an official kickoff of many weekend wedding celebrations. As you plan your perfect rehearsal dinner, here are five key things to consider.

1

2

Decide who hosts

Plan the guest list

Rehearsal dinners used to be commonly known as grooms dinners. Scheduled to follow a wedding rehearsal the evening before the big day, the grooms dinners were the family of the groom’s contribution to the celebration— that is, back when the bride’s family was responsible for the wedding expenses. In our modern era in which couples’ families share in the wedding expenses, it often comes down to the lucky couple footing the bill for the rehearsal dinner, therefore also serving as the official hosts of the dinner.

You’ll want to make sure everyone is on the same page with the guest list.

While the wedding party and the lucky couples’ families will be in attendance, clarify whether or not anyone intends to invite out-of-town guests, children, or grandparents, and so on. It’s okay to keep the guest list small.

3

Keep it simple Resist the temptation to go too fancy on the rehearsal dinner.

You don’t want to upstage the big day! With a simple three course meal in a casual environment, you’ll keep everyone comfortable and the conversation flowing.

K K C I U T D C H U EN E L B

4

Manage introductions Don’t forget that some of the attendees at your rehearsal dinner may be meeting each other for the first time.

For example, maybe the father of the bride hasn’t met the groom’s old college roommate in the wedding party. Make sure to run through introductions so that no one feels left out of conversation over dinner.

This also serves as an ice breaker for those who will want to stand up and share a few words about the couple.

5

Don’t forget gifts The rehearsal dinner is the traditional time to present gifts to the wedding party. Typically these gifts are inexpensive and practical, and often personalized, something like an engraved compact mirror for the ladies and a flask for the guys. Making the gifts practical and personal ensures they’ll be cherished for years to come.

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Wedding $$$

By Forrest Dailey

Couples budget, on average, around $23,000 for their wedding but end up spending around $30,000, with more than half of all couples increasing their projected spending during the planning process according to Wedding Wire's 2020 Newlywed Report.

Your wedding is the one event in your lifetime when you plan everything down to the smallest detail. The one time when it isn’t really frowned upon to want things exactly how you want them, case closed.

This is probably why the suffix -zilla is often added to the word “bride” or “groom” with little more than a knowing chuckle.

Especially to those who have been there and done that. That isn’t a license to go berserk, but generally speaking, it’s understood and all is forgiven.

Still, a conflict arises here, for most younger couples anyway. Because it’s very likely that if you two are just starting out on your own, your parents are picking up the tab for a good chunk of the wedding expenses. They probably have 50

their own ideas on budget. And why not?

The person financing any event should have a pretty firm say on spending, no?

The conflict arises when they also have strong opinions on aesthetics for the event. Food, flowers, music, décor, and so on. But it is possible to work within their budget, yet still realize your priorities for your wedding with your own aesthetic sensibilities shining through. It may take a very sincere discussion between the couple and the parents shelling out for the event. On the other hand, you may not have to “sell it” to them at all. Maybe you’re more like your parents than you ever imagined. Best to find out now.

Anyway, still be prepared, if need be, to justify why you simply must have a fleet of drones spell out “Max + Madison 4 Ever!“ in lights in the sky.

Assuming those are your names. Not the point. This is your moment to set the tone in many ways between you and your spouse-to-be as well as between you and your future in-laws.

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Photo by - Ash & James Photography

Firstly, let’s just be honest. Once you are married, if it isn’t already, life will soon become all about the big conversations, the big decisions. What better way to open negotiations than with the one about your wedding? You will want to be firmly on the same page before you present your list of demands to the parents anyway.

Having this conversation will be a good “practice run” for when you need to make other life decisions together about having children, educating your children, moving to a new town, or how to approach tough subjects with your kids as they grow.

Secondly, this is your first shot at showing your future in-laws where your boundaries lie. This, again, will set the tone for when you have kids, when the in-laws will definitely have their own thoughts on the situation, having raised you themselves. All this talk about kids, though… let’s not get ahead of ourselves.

Just think of this wedding spending conversation as opportunity to show your future in-laws that you are a person of conviction willing to stand up for what is important to you. What better way to earn some pre-“I-do” points with them?

It’s not as scary as it sounds. Remember, this is your wedding, and your parents love you, so what’s important to you will be important to them. Just like with the bride/groomzilla thing, they’ve been there. They get it. Well maybe not the drone thing, but….

Best of luck!

Say “I Do” TO A NEW HOME

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Jill Bailey 507-990-6042 | jillbailey@edinarealty.com edinarealty.com/jill-bailey-realtor

1301 Salem Rd SW, Rochester, MN 55902

If you have a brokerage relationship with another agency this was not intended to be a solicitation.

How to Choose the

PERFECT WEDDING VENUE

by Thelma Grimes

Before deciding on decorations, flowers and design, a couple must first consider where they want to have their wedding.

Choosing a venue for that special day doesn’t have to be stressful. To choose the location perfect for your big day, keep these tips in mind: What can you afford? – Before venturing out to tour locations, it’s important to know your price point.

You don’t want to fall in love with a place only to find out you can’t even afford the taxes. Set your venue budget before proceeding. On average, couples spend just over $5,000 on the venue. Setting this price point is important because it takes a big portion of the entire wedding budget.

How many are coming? - You need a guest count before you can really choose a venue. Wedding venues have a maximum capacity count, which means you need to know how many guests might be coming before you sign on the dotted line.

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What fits your vision? – Once the business questions are answered, it’s time for the fun part. What do you envision for the big day? Start looking online at pictures of local venues.

See if any of them speak to you. Take guided tours and see if you can see yourself saying I do at that location.

Consider dates – You might have a date in mind, but the venue you are most interested in may not be available. In the early stages, don’t be afraid to have a few dates in mind in case a back-up plan is needed.

Get it in writing – Once you’ve found what you are looking for, get a contract in place. It’s important to remember that wedding venue contracts aren’t as straightforward as one might expect. Ask questions, make sure you are clear on all payment schedules, cancellation policies and in-house requirements.

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The Value You Deserve with Amenities Your Wedding Guests Will Love

Get the value you deserve with a free, hot breakfast, free WiFi, and friendly service. Gather with friends or colleagues in the meeting room.

Take a dip in the indoor pool or hot tub before working off some steam in our modern fitness center.

We have the travel amenities you need so that you can make the most of your experience.

Every detail is considered so that your stay is both comfortable and memorable.

New Comfort Suites Rochester Welcomes your Wedding Party & Guests with Guaranteed Satisfaction Free Whirlpool Suite

Featured Amenities Premium Free WiFi Free Hot Breakfast Smoke Free Fitness Center

Complimentary Shuttle Service Scheduled Meeting Room with Qualifying Booking Free Hot & Cold Deluxe Breakfast Buffet Indoor Heated Pool & Whirlpool

Indoor Pool

Spacious accommodations.

Friendly service.

5708 Bandel Road NW, Rochester, MN, 55901

(507) 289-3434

4141 Maine Ave SE Rochester, MN 55904

(507) 424-2720

ComfortSuites.com/hotel/MN106

VENUES AND CATERING

Y O U R W E D D I N G D AY IS ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT EVENTS IN A FA M I LY ’ S L I F E .

OURS TOO.

O U R FA M I LY O F C O M PA N I E S

In addition to the breathtaking views, amazing food, and world-class service, you’ll be impressed with the thoughtful details that will ensure your event is a success at our Hilton, the newest hotel in downtown Rochester, Minnesota.

• Two large ballrooms with floor to ceiling windows and 19’ ceilings • Outdoor reception terrace • Ceremony options • Complimentary floor length linens • Room for bridal party to get ready • Ability to host 50-500 guests • 264 luxury guest rooms and suites • Skyway access to downtown hotels, restaurants and photo shoot locations • Adjoining parking ramp

Rochester’s Hilton is proudly partnering with J.Powers, a luxury event venue and catering experience delivering exceptional service and exquisite cuisine.

With a spirit to serve, the J.Powers team is committed to making each event memorable beyond measure.

1 0 E A S T C E N T E R S T R E E T , R O C H E S T E R , M N 5 5 9 0 4 | 5 0 7. 3 6 1 . 3 6 0 0 | J P O W E R S . E V E N T S

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Photo by: Glasser Images

Mayowood Stone Barn Rentals Include: Photo by: Jeff Dose

• Access to the outdoor grounds, carriage way, loft, restrooms, and private rooms for getting ready • Set up and tear down of tables and chairs for up to 250 people for both ceremony and reception • Use of house sound systems for outdoors and inside the barn

Photo by: Joelle Julian Photography

Photo by: Marit Williams Photography

of years.

The history is in every stone, the craftsmanship is evident. The beauty is in the arches and windows; boasting the character achieved only by thoughtful design, hard work and the passing of years.

We invite you to experience the natural beauty and craftsmanship of the century-old stone buildings and wide open spaces surrounding Mayowood Stone Barn.

Our private venue feels secluded and rural, but is less than 6 miles from downtown Rochester’s award-winning restaurants, five-star accommodations, and less than 10 miles from the Rochester International Airport.

Photo by: Glasser Images 3385 MAYOWOOD R OAD SW, R OCHESTER, MN 55902 | 507-281-2276 | MAYOWOODSTONEBARN.COM

CANADIAN H O NK ER HA S A N EXCLUS IVE CAT E R E R ’ S P E R MI T W H I C H ALLOW US TO PR OVIDE OF F S ITE LIQUOR F O R E V E NTS W H E R E W E PR OVIDE THE F OOD .

With our principal philosophy on excellence and personal accountability, we are committed to 100% guest and customer satisfaction. We empower our teams to do what it takes to help our philosophy come to life.

Our staff culinary team of experts rises to the challenge of pleasing the most discerning palates. Our professional and courteous wait staff prides itself on impeccable hospitality and expert attention to details.

LOCATIONS, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO:

Choose from our catering menu

• Mayowood Stone Barn • Villa Bellezza • Rochester Fairgrounds • Rochester Art Center • Plummer House • Studio 324 • Coops Event Barn • The Hidden Meadow & Barn • The Mill Event Center • Old Glory Barn • Pond View Barn • Serenity Hills Pavilion • Steeple Chase • Cannon River Winery • Oak View Barn

2112 2ND STREET SW, SUITE 100, ROCHESTER, MN 55902 | 507-258-4633 | CANADIANHONKERCATERING.COM

Exceptional moments are made here.

As southeast Minnesota’s largest and most experienced caterer, you can count on Rochester Event Center. We provide a convenient and fully accessible state-of-the-art facility that can accommodate groups of all sizes. Our Grand Ballroom can accommodate up to 750 guests (13,000 square feet) or can be divided into two sections for up to 350 guests per ballroom. We also have a large comfortable lobby area and plenty of free front door parking.

Our professional staff and our culinary team will provide delicious, innovative food made with the highest quality ingredients served with style and flawless service. We will happily work with you to customize your menu, service style, array of amenities, and budget. We will provide you with flawless attention to detail ensuring the most memorable wedding day for you and your guests.

Complimentary Amenities Include: • • • • •

Linens - Tablecloths and Napkins (colored napkins available) Table Skirting for all Specialty Tables.

Full China Service.

Head Table on a Riser with Microphone Cash Bar - No Bartender Fee

We also offer the following decoration packages: SILVER PACKAGE:

• Black, white, or ivory backdrop with inlays and your choice of lighting • Head table, gift table & cake table swag with lights

GOLD PACKAGE:

• Silver package as well as chair covers in white or ivory with an array of sash colors 7333 Airport View Drive SW, Rochester, MN 55902 | 507 529 0033 | rochestereventcenter.com

Men Get Married Too

By Forrest Dailey

It should go without saying, but here it is. Are you ready for it? Men get married too. Somewhere along the way we lost sight of that simple fact, for any number of reasons, many of them rooted in assumptions that we’ve decided to go along with. So first, let’s examine some of them.

•

Women are better planners – There is a fine distinction here. There are better planners, and there are those who are more likely to see a task and just get down to it. If that task is planning your wedding, maybe by the time one of you is ready to jump into the fray, the other already has it handled or is already well on the way. Maybe that other happens to be the bride.

•

Men aren’t interested in romance – Maybe men’s conceptualization of romance is so different from that of women that to women, the groom’s approach to the wedding appears like disinterest. Let’s face it—much of imagery we see about weddings in media is “bride-centric.”

•

The “just tell me where and when to show up and I’ll be there with a tux on” fallacy – There definitely are men who don’t want to make a big deal out of the whole thing, but that doesn’t mean they want to “just show up” while the bride and her delegates handle the details.

So, no, these preconceptions are not universal truths, but they do exist. That being the case, it’s only fitting that we raise the first toast to you those grooms-to-be who are playing an active role. If you are a couple looking for better ways to share the load, let’s talk about how you can make your wedding plans more of a team effort.

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•

Venue – Maybe you’ve had the perfect wedding/reception location picked out since long before you even knew your beloved. If so, great. You can still make a day of scouting out the area for parking, nearby hotels, picturesque photo shoot locations on the grounds, etc. Take your beloved out there to show them what you’ve had in mind.

It’s a perfect chance for them to pitch in ideas. If you did not plan your whole wedding when you were in grade school, it’s time for the two of you to go on tour together.

Maybe it’s an entire weekend, now. If it’s your first time spending this much time on the road together, what better reason than venue hunting?

• Invitations – You can personalize your invitations by making them yourself, but who’s got time for that? There are services that will make them for you, to your specifications – design, colors, wording, etc. This presents an opportunity for the soon-to-be-weds to create a personalized message, together, with the appropriate mix of humor, sentimentality, and your own unique story that you’re just not going to get from a pre-fabricated invitation. Just remember, it is an invitation. Who, what, where, when are key. But why not use it as one more opportunity to bond as a couple?

• Music – You each have your own tastes, though they probably overlap in many places, possibly more than you knew before this little exercise. You’ll want to hire a DJ or band who will “read the room” so the music will be tolerable - ideally enjoyable - to your guests. But this is also an opportunity to introduce yourselves as a couple, to infuse the occasion with some of your personal favorites. Make lists of those songs, then edit them down to a “must have” list together.

You may be thinking, “But won’t this add even more to my to-do list?" Maybe. Start early, before the mad rush begins.

Doing these things could lessen the madness of the rush. And you will be glad when you see just how “you” your wedding shapes up to be.

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AUDREY & ADAM REAL WEDDING

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WEDDING DATE: JUNE 11, 2021.

How did you meet and what was your proposal story?

I grew up in Wisconsin and moved to Rochester in 2008, when I met one of my best friends, Amber, when I worked at the Apache Mall. I didn't know anyone else here. I met her brother Adam in 2013, when he moved here from Illinois. It wasn't love at first sight (although he is very attractive). It started as a friendship, and we bonded on our similar life experiences, like moving to a new town.

There was one moment in our friendship that we both recall differently, but that solidified our desire to be more than just friends. We bought a house together in 2016, and he proposed on the steps of our first home on Friday the 13th in September, 2019. We had family visiting for the weekend and we were all gathered on our front porch. Adam made a toast, telling me he loved me to the moon and back and didn't want to do this life without me. He wanted every adventure, big or small, to be with me. As a special song of ours played in the background, he got down on one knee, shaking the whole time, presented the ring and asked me to marry him. I had one hand over my mouth in shock, and the other holding a glass of wine. Crying, I happily accepted, and everyone cheered! We celebrated the rest of the weekend! He later told me that he had originally planned to propose the next day at a winery or a trip to Lanesboro but was so nervous he couldn't bear to wait another day. I love that he threw his plans to the wind because it was so unexpected and special.

What was the Inspiration for the look and feel of your wedding?

Vibrant, bright, modern, boho, and fun with a touch of whimsical.

What was the significance of your wedding location?

We fell in love and started our lives together in Rochester. The Mayowood Stone Barn was the first venue we looked at and knew it was going to be the place we wanted to become Mr. & Mrs.

What was your favorite moment in your ceremony and reception?

We wrote our own vows at our ceremony and they were perfect for us. We were married under the old oak tree on the property and found it fitting to have a Tree of Life Love Lock ceremony honoring the examples of lifetime love that we have witnessed in our lives. Our grandparents and parents' love are the roots and foundation of what we aspire to have in our commitment to marriage. We each put our RochesterWeddingMagazine.com

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party party to to stop stop so so we we had had aa casual casual BBQ BBQ planned planned for for the the next next day. day. ItIt was was aa relaxing relaxing atmosphere atmosphere to to visit visit with with everyone everyone who who travelled travelled to to celecelebrate brate with with us. us. The The wedding wedding day day isis over over before before you you know know it. it. We We were were so so happy happy to to have have more more time with with everyone. everyone.

Our Our dog dog Logan Logan also also ran ran down down the the aisle aisle greeting greeting time our our friends friends and and family family as as aa member member of of the the 2. Don't Don't spend spend all all your your time time stressing stressing about about wedding wedding party party in in aa bow bow tie tie collar collar and and made made us us 2. little details. details. all all laugh, laugh, he he was was so so cute. cute. Our Our reception reception was was aa little blast! blast! We We were were really really touched touched by by everyone's everyone's 3.

3. There There can can be be aa lot lot that that goes goes into into planning planning aa speeches speeches and and danced danced the the whole whole night. night. wedding wedding and and aa budget budget isis important. important. locks locks on on the the tree tree with with our our names names and and wedding wedding dates dates engraved engraved on on it, it, and and now now it's it's aa cherished cherished piece piece of of art art in in our our home. home. ItIt isis such such aa beautiful beautiful reminder reminder of of our our special special day. day.

Would Would you you change change anything anything ifif you you could could do do itit all all over over again? again? IfIf so, so, what? what?

Our Our day day was was truly truly amazing, amazing, there there isn't isn't much much that that we we would would change. change. My My mom mom passed passed away away soon soon after after our our engagement engagement from from aa rare rare cancer, cancer, Leiomyosarcoma.

Leiomyosarcoma. Although Although she she was was in in our our hearts hearts during during every every part part of of the the day, day, we we would would have have loved loved for for her her to to have have been been there there in in person. person.

4.

4. Entrust Entrust the the day day of of duties duties to to aa wedding wedding planplanner ner or or someone someone close close to to you you so so that that you you can can just just relax relax and and soak soak in in every every moment. moment.

5.

5. Enjoy Enjoy every every moment moment of of your your day! day! Even Even ifif things things don't don't go go exactly exactly according according to to your your plan, plan, you're you're the the only only ones ones who who will will notice. notice.

What What advice advice do do you you have have for for other other couples couples planning planning their their weddings? weddings?

1.

1. We We had had aa lot lot of of family family and and friends friends travel travel here here from from out out of of town town and and we we didn't didn't want want the the 64

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WEDDING TEAM Ceremony/Reception Locations: Mayowood Stone Barn Officiant: Brandi Lind Cake/Dessert: Hy-Vee Catering Catering: Canadian Honker Catering Florist: Fox & Fern Floral Invitations: Ginger P. Designs Makeup: P Laanonh Vongphirath Hair: AJ Williams at Studio Thirteen and Keisha Roles Beauty: Latibule by Lisa Bridal Gown: Enzoani from Vera's House of Bridals Bridesmaid dresses: Wherever they wanted to shop from- all different colors and styles Menswear: Mestad's Jeweler: SJ Jewelers Music: Wedding Day DJs Photographer: Cheeky Monkey Studio

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TAYLOR & DREW REAL WEDDING

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WEDDING DATE: AUGUST 7TH, 2021.

How did you meet and what was your proposal story?

How we met: Drew and I were introduced in 7th and 8th grade. After a short “limited texting only” period of time, Drew decided to ask me to be his girlfriend during middle school lunch. My answer was, “ahh, let me think about it and I will let you know.” We grew to be best friends, and the rest is history.

How he proposed: After almost seven years of dating, Drew popped the question. It was our town’s hometown days and I was on my way to pick him up to head out for the night.

Driving down Drew’s road, I saw the entire back deck lit up in lights. A trail of rose petals led up to the deck, which was lined with lights, candles, and covered in more rose petals. After watching a video collage of pictures we had taken together over the years, Drew got down on one knee and asked me to marry him. Our parents and closest friends came running out of the house afterwards to celebrate.

What was the significance of your wedding location?

We both grew up in the Rochester area and getting married near our hometown with all our friends and family is exactly what we were looking for. Bearwood Event Barn was the perfect location.

What was your favorite moment in your ceremony and reception?

My favorite moment from our wedding was walking down the aisle with my dad at my side and seeing Drew’s reaction as I walked towards him.

My favorite moment during our reception was the sparkler send-off with our entire bridal party surrounding us singing the classic song, "Can't Help Falling In Love."

Would you change anything if you could do it over again? If so, what?

Simple answer, we’d change absolutely nothing. Our day was perfect; the downpour rain in the morning led to the most beautiful afternoon of pictures leading up to the ceremony.

What advice do you have for other couples planning their weddings?

Don’t sweat the small details. In the end, you are marrying your best friend. Everything will fall into place, enjoy the day and celebrate.

What did you do for your honeymoon?

We are planning to travel this coming spring when Drew has time off from medical school.

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WEDDING TEAM Ceremony/Reception Locations: Bearwood Event Barn Officiant: Drew's Uncle Al Catering: Catering by Design Florist: Hy-Vee Beauty: 1st Avenue Haircompany Bridal Gown: Raffine Bridal & Formal Wear Bridesmaids’ Dresses: David's Bridal Tuxedos: Men's Wearhouse Reception Music: Chris Moe Entertainment Photographer: Cheeky Monkey Studio

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RILEY & NICK REAL WEDDING

WEDDING DATE: AUGUST 1, 2020 How did you meet and what was your proposal story?

After initially meeting in high school, then building an ever-stronger relationship over the next four and a half years, Nicholas moved to Boulder, Colorado in January 2020 to join me as I finished my degree. In the months leading up to our engagement, we truly enjoyed quality time together with no more long distance. Nicholas knew for a few years that we would be married. Now that we were finally living in the same state, he bought a beautiful and timeless engagement ring and could only wait a single day before proposing! Nicholas planned a special engagement picnic in the foothills of Boulder and proposed surrounded by the beautiful Colorado mountains. I happily accepted his proposal and hand in marriage.

What was the Inspiration for the look and feel of your wedding?

We really wanted the focus of the wedding to be on the gospel of Jesus Christ and God’s beautiful design of marriage. We decided to do a morning wedding so that the ceremony that highlighted God’s view of marriage and our personal vows to one another under God would be the focus of the entire day. The colors and decorations for the wedding were inspired by the wildflowers of Colorado and our love of woodworking (we spent the months leading up to the wedding hand-making all the wooden décor and signs featured on our wedding day).

What was the significance of your wedding location?

Since we were both born and raised in Minnesota, we wanted our venue in a beautiful location that captures our love for the state.

We chose Lanesboro because it is the home of the beautiful bluffs and was also the perfect location for a magical weekend getaway.

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What was your favorite moment in your ceremony and reception?

Would you change anything if you could do it all over again? If so, what?

Saying our personal vows to each other was the most special moment of our ceremony because we were making promises to last a lifetime in front of our friends, family and, most importantly, God. Our reception was a little less traditional, being that it was a brunch reception with no dancing, but we really enjoyed the heart-warming speeches made by the best man, maid of honor and father of the bride. The father-daughter dance was also one of my favorite parts, as it brought back special memories of when my dad and I would perform together at ice skating shows throughout my childhood.

Nope! While there may be things that happened in ways we didn't plan or foresee, these are the things that make your wedding unique and even more memorable!

What advice do you have for other couples planning their weddings?

Contentment. Living with contentment is often overlooked in the western world, and this couldn't be more true when planning your wedding. Of course, you are planning a wedding that you're excited about and that you'll love, but when it's said and done, don't find your identity or pride in the details of the day. Instead, be content and enjoy it! Additionally, plan for a marriage

not a wedding. We would encourage all couples to do this and that might look like premarital counseling, seeking advice from respected married couples in your family or community, or reading books on marriage.

We would highly recommend "The Meaning of Marriage" by Timothy Keller.

What did you do for your honeymoon?

We did not go on a honeymoon after our wedding, but instead considered moving into our home together as our honeymoon. We did not live together before the wedding and spent our first few days of our married life enjoying living under the same roof and decorating our home.

WEDDING TEAM Ceremony/Reception Locations: Sacred Clay Inn, Lanesboro, MN Officiant: Rodney Hamer (Riley’s uncle) Cake/Dessert: Vanilla cake made by Liz’s Cakes in Lanesboro, MN Catering: This Little Piggy Catering (brunch catering) and Liz’s Cakes (pastry catering for social hour) Florist: Richfield Floral and Gift Invitations: Minted Beauty: Jenna Peterson (maid of honor) Bridal Gown: Wedding Shoppe in St. Paul MN Bridesmaid dresses: Altar’d State Menswear: Wedding Shoppe in St. Paul MN Music: Family Three Photographer: Erica Johanna Photography Videographer: Blake from A'BriTin Catering

Wedding Planner: Susan Kelly Signature Events

Rentals: Majestic Tents and Events

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WEDDING DIRECTORY 2021

Mestads Bridal And Formal Wear mestads.com

Barlow Plaza 1171 6TH ST. NW Rochester, MN | 507-289-2444 A distinct collection of the best contemporary designers and independent labels from the U.S. and abroad.

Bridal & Formal Wear

The White Rose Bridal & Formal Wear

Let’s Plan Your W Canadian Honker Catering canadianhonkercatering.com

whiterosebridal.net

2112 2nd Street SW Suite 100

737 Whitewater Ave,There’s Saint Charles, a MN reason 507-932-3375

MN | 507-258-4633 is Rochester, why Ever Rochester, After Entertainment and it’s because we care about you and wedding guests Our staff culinary teamyour of experts Located only 20 minutes from Rochester. rises to the challenge of pleasing the dance floor and we’ll do our best to keep it packed! Your D Offering A breathtaking selection of bridal the most discerning pallets. gowns for every style of bride! any hokey pokey DJ gimmicks because we hate awkward m requests, and promise to not play songs on

Bridal & Formal Wear

Catering

Smoak

Ever After DJ

Five West Kitchen and Bar

2291 Commerce Dr NW, Rochester, MN 507-361-7427 Perfect option for all your catering needs.

Fine meats smoked in white oak, fresh salads, tacos, gourmet sandwiches and sides.

703 S Pointe Ct SW, Rochester, MN 507-216-8900 Rochester's highest rated professional DJ company focused on giving you and your guests a great experience. Custom play and do no play lists plus photo booth available.

1991 Commerce Dr NW Rochester, MN 507-361-5555 ext. 2 Host your next event at Five West. Enjoy the private dining room (up to 50 guests) and customizable menu options.

smoakbbqmn.com

CANADIA

fivewestrochester.com

WEDD

507.258.4633 | CanadianHonkerCatering.com

DJ

Event Space

CAN

Catering

Bleu Duck

Kara Kloss Studio 26 507-216-8900

Pittsburgh Blue

pittsburghbluesteak.com

karastudio26@gmail.com

14 Fourth Street SW, Rochester, MN 507-258-4663 Co-Owner and Events Coordinator Jennifer Becker will work with you personally to plan your night. The Event Space can host your party with seating from 25 - 100 guests.

10 E Center St, Rochester, MN 507-361-2560 Two private spaces available perfect for receptions and engagement dinners.

The River Room: up to 16 guests.

The Blue Room: up to 48 guests.

715-781-2297 Travels with On-site License | Airbrush Makeup | Featured in Rochester Magazine, Rochester Woman’s Magazine and KTTCs Takeover my Makeover

Event Space

Event Space

Hair and Makeup Artist

bleuduckkitchen.com

3185 41st Street NW, Rochester, MN 703 S Pointe Ct SW, Rochester, MN 55902

B R I D A L & F O R M A L W E A R | C AT E R I N G | D J | E V E N T S PA C E | H A I R A N D M A K E U P

DOUBLE TREE BY HILTON 150 South Broadway, 507-281-8000

doubletree3.hilton.com

EXTENDED STAY AMERICA 55 Woodlake Dr SE, 507-536-7444

extendedstayamerica.com

EXTENDED STAY AMERICA 2814 43rd St NW, 507-289-7444

extendedstayamerica.com FAIRFIELD INN

470 17th Ave NW, 507-258-7300

marriott.com/hotels

Comfort Suites

choicehotels.com/hotel/mn106

KatrinaMoyer.GlossGenius.com

Sola Salons, 3185 41st St. NW, Rochester MN MN’s highest rated507-272-3698 wedding dj company, a devoted stylist dedicated to read s. You wantKatrina a DJis who knows how to provide an exceptional, relaxing, and fun DJ will keepexperience your wedding flowing without for you and your bridal party. offers on-site hair and makeup services. moments.She We also promise to play your

n your DO NOT PLAY list.

4141 Maine Avenue SE, Rochester, MN 507-424-2720 Wedding Party Amenities Include: Amenities include: Guest rooms feature: • Free WiFi • Microwave and Free Whirlpool Suite | Complimentary • Free hot breakfast Shuttle Service | Free Hot & refrigerator Cold Breakfast • USB ports • Buffet Free parking | Indoor Heated Pool & Whirlpool • Indoor heated pool and hot tub • Fitness center

Hotel

Hair and Makeup Artist

• Coffee maker • Work desk • Flat-panel TV

Your Party, Your way.

507-424-2720 No awkward moments!

100% Smoke Free Hotel

62 X

$M-F $$

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$$7 X $$$$ DAYS

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marriot.com/RSTTM

Home 2 Suites By Hilton home2suites.hilton.com

831 16th Street SW, Rochester, MN 507-361-4200 The perfect place for the perfect wedding weekend. Proud to be ranked in the top 3 hotels in Rochester on Trip Advisor.

Hotel

5708 Bandel Road NW, Rochester, MN 601 2nd St SW, Rochester, MN 507-361-0050 507-289-3434 Do Not Play List A magical place for your wedding guests!

Amenities Including : Indoor pool and hot rooms and suites, limo shuttle bus Whatever you| Free do hot don’t play| Meet(insert song)!Spacious If tub | Free WiFi breakfast ing spacethat | Modern fitness center | Central youlocation hate song just tell us… we won’t service, play complimentary buffet breakfast and meeting rooms all in a convenient location. near Mayo Clinic and IBM Rochester

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Don’t Worry, We Got This Our DJs are personable, professional, and arrive early to make sure everything’s set up and runs smooth. midwestlifeshots.com Rochester, MN | 507-951-8859 Your wedding is unique & your photography should be as well. We custom-tailor every package to get you exactly what you want and fit your budget perfectly. We can include Engagements, Guest Books, Albums, Boudoir sessions!

Jill Bailey | Edina Realty

Majestic Events

1301 Salem Rd SW, Rochester, MN 507-990-6042 Whether you're buying your first (or next) home let me help you make your next move.

Buying, selling or relocating Jill has over 18 years of real estate sales experience.

522 6th Avenue NW, Rochester, MN 507-876-1127 Be it an indoor venue or one of our tents we can fit your vision, space, and budget to help you create the wedding you’ve always imagined for your once in a lifetime wedding.

Photographer

Realtor

Rentals

Midwest Lifeshots

edinarealty.com/jill-bailey-realtor

majestictents.com

H A I R A N D M A K E U P | H O T E L | P H O T O G R A P H E R | R E A LT O R | R E N TA L S

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Hotel Capture the Moment Keep your guests entertained with a photo booth and receive a copy of every snapshot we H O take. You’ll love it!

Cheeky Monkey

cheekymonkeystudio.com Rochester, MN | 507-272-4575 Our memories can fade but a moment preserved in time can not. Cara Carisch (Rochester MN Wedding and Portrait Photographer for 10+ years) will capture every beautiful moment on your day.

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Special rates for patients and their families attending the Mayo Clinic

Townplace Suite

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On-site rest

$M-F $$

4141 Maine Ave SE • Rochester, MN 55904 • www.comfortsuites.com/hotel/MN106

Promise to Play Tell us what you want, what you really really want. Add it Quality to yourInn Promise to Play list and choicehotels.com we’ll make sure you hear it at your event!

Hot tub

Pool

Shuttle

Kitchenette

ECONOLODGE-ROCHESTER 1850 Broadway Ave S, 507-282-9905

choicehotels.com

Price range

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$201-400 . . . . . . . . $$$ $401-1000 . . . . . . $$$$ $1000 & up . . . . $$$$$

3595 Commercial Dr SW, 507-206-4675 120 X

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WEDDING DIRECTORY 2021

CAP. 400+ Empire Event Center Best Western

CAP. 350 DoubleTree by Hilton

Star Transportation We have a vehicle for every limostar.comOCCASION EVENT & SPECIAL

doubletree3.hilton.com

7828 Leque Drive SW, Rochester, MN 507-281-0969 Travel in style with Star Transportation.

Luxury Sedans & SUVs, Stretch Limousines, Mercedes Sprinters, Corporate & Luxury Visit LimoStar.com to see our fleet Coaches, Deluxe Motor Coaches

150 S Broadway, Rochester, MN 507-281-8000 Venue hosts up to 350 guests. The University Hall stuns as an elegant downtown Rochester wedding venue. In-house catering team offers a full range of packages.

Transportation

Venue/Hotel

1517 16th Street SW, Rochester, MN 507-529-7322 catering to you

The recently renovated Empire Event Center conveniently Apache attached toCenter the Apache Hotel Hotel & Event 1517 16th St. SW MN 55902– Rochester is the and future BestRochester, Western 507-529-7322 ideal location for your upcoming wedding! conveniently attached to Apache Hotel and future Best Western Hotel

Venue

Cap. 300 In Summer 100 In Winter

CAP. 275 J. Powers At The Hilton

5225 County Road 15 SW, Byron, MN 507-365-8891

10 East Center Street, Rochester, MN 507-280-8888 In addition to the breathtaking views, amazing food, and world-class service, you’ll be impressed with the thoughtful details and luxurious surroundings.

BKreative Films

mayowoodstonebarn.com

©

BKreative Films

Beautiful Civil-War era farm located 6 miles SW of Rochester on paved roads.

Carriage House Events Center available year-round.

Garden Weddings

jpowers.events

©

gartenmarketplatz.com

3385 Mayowood Road SW, Rochester, MN 507-281-2276 BKreative Films

Garten Marketplatz

CAP. 250+ Mayowood Stone Barn

Experience the natural beauty and craftsmanship of the century-old stone buildings and wide open spaces surrounding Mayowood Stone Barn. ©

CAP. 100

& SPECIAL EVENTS FOR OVER 20 YEARS

©

Megan Jo Photography

©

Megan Jo Photography

5225 County Road 15 SW | Byron, MN 55920 | 507-365-8891 | GartenMarketplatz.com

Venue Megan Jo Photography

Venue/Hotel

Carriage House Events Center available year-round

©

Venue

Beautiful Civil-War era farm located 6 miles SW of Rochester on paved roads

Mayo Civic Center

Outback Ranch

© Boyum Photography

mayociviccenter.com

outbackranch.net

Plummer House

CAP. 275

1091 Plummer Lane SW, Rochester, MN 507-328-2525

30 Civic Center Dr SE, Rochester MN 507-361 5071 shannon.fredrickson@mayociviccenter.com Perfect location to accommodate ceremonies and receptions of all sizes. Featuring the largest ballroom in Minnesota.

South West of Houston, MN 507-896-5550 Beautiful setting for any event featuring scenic overlooks. Location offers a banquet hall, historical cowboy stall barn, indoor and outdoor venue options.

Historic Rochester home with formal gardens and beautifully landscaped grounds.

Venue Features: ceremony area, indoor event space, and outdoor event space.

Venue

Venue

Venue

T R A N S P O R TAT I O N | V E N U E / H O T E L | V E N U E

EXPERIENCE ROCHESTER’S NEWEST WEDDING VENUE

WEDDING DIRECTORY 2021

Susan Kelly • 507.250.3696 • sacredclayinn.com/weddings • susanskelly@yahoo.com

CAP. 800 Rochester Event Center

Wedding Images Courtesy of: Erica Johanna Photography

Sacred Clay Inn & Wedding Barn

Willow Creek Golf

7333 Airport View Drive SW, Rochester, MN 507-529-0033 Award-winning culinary team creates exquisite food with a sophisticated presentation.

Facility features a Grand Ballroom, which accommodates up 800 guests.

3100 Country Club Rd SW, Rochester, MN 507-250-3696 | susankelly@yahoo.com Located on 103 acres of majestic bluff country. Featuring luxurious 9-guest rooms and breathtaking outdoor stone bluff ceremony site.

1700 48th St SW, Rochester, MN 507-285-0305 Offers a full spectrum of banquet facilities and services including picturesque views, signature cuisine, outdoor ceremony site, seating for up to 250 and dance floor.

Venue

Venue

Venue

Sweet House Bakery

Counterpoint Home counterpointhome.com

Cassie West Weddings And Events

1219 2nd St, Rochester, MN 507-398-8439 Whether you are looking for a simple design, elegant dessert table or intricate details, Sweet House Bakery has the expertise to make your vision come to life.

111 South Broadway, Rochester, MN 507-280-6419 You'll find the perfect wedding gift and we happily gift wrap items purchased in our stores, offer shipping, and assist with personalized shopping

507-202-7964 Cassie West Events specializes in taking the stress of your special day away. From Full Service Wedding Planning to Day of Coordination. Let us help you truly take in every moment.

Wedding Cake

Wedding Gifts

Wedding Planner

rochestereventcenter.com

sweethousebakery.org

sacredclayinn.com/weddings

willowcreekgolfmn.com

TO SEE THE FULL

V E N D O R D I R EC TO RY V I S I T:

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VENUE

| WEDDING CAKE | WEDDING GIFTS | WEDDING PLANNER

WE HAVE YOU COVERED Linens | Chairs | Tables | Tents | Audio | Lighting | DJ’s Dance Floor | Stages | Accessories & Much More Worry-free event rentals from start to finish.

Contact Lisa or Steve Birdseye at | 507.876.1127 | majestictents.com