Once upon a time, Monique and I were undergrad roommates in college – two years officially and one year living across the hall from one another. We’ve laughed together, we’ve cried together, we’ve concocted crazy Halloween costumes together, we’ve shared stories, we’ve busted our bums studying, we’ve seen each other grow both in and out of college, and we’ve remained friends ever since. So when Monique contacted me about photographing her Camrose Hill Flower Farm wedding in Stillwater, Minnesota, I was beyond, beyond, beyond happy, excited and honored. To be invited to document and witness one of the happiest days of your friend’s life is one of the most special things…and now I’m getting all teary again writing this!

Monique and Kirkland’s day was exceptionally beautiful, reflecting every bit of happiness these two radiated. As it always has been, Monique’s design sense was on point and the venue was gorgeous – brimming with flower-filled gardens, and draped in even more flowers that Monique added as her personal touch to the decor. Butterflies flitted, birds flew overhead, and guests mingled and laughed with one another as they sipped on salted honey-bourban and vodka lemonades as they waited for Monique and Kirk to walk down the aisle to say their “I Dos.”

The sun just peeked over the treetops as the ceremony began – Kirkland was striking as he walked down the aisle with his son, Noah, and Monique was absolutely radiant as, arm-in-arm, with her father and her son, Jayden, she joined Kirk at the altar. Friends and family beamed (and from behind my camera I *may* have seriously teared up from pure happiness) as Monique and Kirkland shared their vows with one another, punctuated by frequent smiles and laughter, and sealed with a magnificent kiss.

Soon everyone was treated to a flavorful dinner (inspired by Monique’s Caribbean roots), fantastic toasts from friends and family, delicious cake, and an assortment of sweet desserts and fruits. As the twilight gave way to night, the twinkle lights sparkled, and folks began to kick up their heels and dance the evening away under a nearly full moon.

Monique and Kirk – I cannot put into words how much of an honor it was to photograph such a truly wonderful day in your lives. I am so thrilled for the two of you, and am so excited to see your happiness and love grow as you get to greet life together as partners. xoxoxo always!

Vendors:

Venue and Florist: Camrose Hill Farm, Stillwater, Minnesota
Catering: Fabulous Catering, Minneapolis, Minnesota
DJ: Adagio Entertainment, St. Paul, Minnesota
Makeup: Face2Face with Violett, St. Louis Park, Minnesota
Hair: Jessica Splinter with Progressions Hair Salon, Bloomington, Minnesota
Dress: an Ian Stuart design from Posh Bridal Couture, Wayzata, Minnesota
Furniture: Ultimate Events, Minneapolis, Minnesota
Bartending: With a Twist Bartending Service, Minneapolis, Minnesota
Reverend: Victor Branitski, Maple Grove, Minnesota

On the docket: weddings and portraits – stay posted!

Cheers,

-Kristine