We could have not been more honored than to be part of Britt and May’s private elopement at the historic Lora hotel in Stillwater, MN.

These two have become family, we may say that often, but our couples are amazing. Britt is a Sioux Empire Videographer and one of the kindest people I have ever met. I met these two before Baby Benji was born, and had already fell in love with daughter CoCo and being able to watch them finally become husband and wife made my bawl like a baby.

These two humans are building the most beautiful life together, and the start to their adventure was held in one of the most iconic and historic locations in downtown Stillwater, MN. The Lora Hotel is surrounded by rock, steep hills and so much brick! The patio where May got ready was literally built into the side of the hill! If you can talk about a preservations dream, yep this was it!

After a first look where I couldn’t see through the viewfinder through my tears at the end, we headed down to the St. Croix River for an amazing gondola ride! First let me tell you, its not easy to stand up in a moving small boat, but damn these two were champs! I also logged 9 miles of walking for their wedding day, most of it running to and from the dock to the bridge and back! Was my sore thighs worth it, YESS!

So if that wasn’t perfect enough – we hadn’t even made it to the ceremony! The Cave Room at the Lora was unbelievable! It felt like a dream to walk into an underground built cave from the 1870’s. History lesson – the entire block was literally carved out of stone for breweries in the late 1800’s. There are caves and carriage tunnels that meaner through out all of downtown, hence the massive hills! Ok back to this venue! The cave is just what it sounds like! A freaking cave, the only light for the ceremony was the glow from the candles. Grandma was the flower girl, (she was so damn amazing) and CoCo walked her mama down the aisle. AGAIN so many happy tears from us all.

RECEPTION! Since Britt is in the wedding industry – he hit the décor out of the park. Everything was so perfectly minimal, and matched the entire feel of the day. The cake – stained everyone’s mouths blue, but was some of the best cake I have ever had – AND I’ve eaten a lot of cake!

So how did we end this amazing day – outside at sunset in downtown Stillwater! Since their wedding day I am envious of anyone who gets to photograph a wedding here! One of the most beautiful locations, with such a perfect couple. Day one was pretty freaking awesome! I can’t wait for what the future holds for you two!