My Philosophy
It all began with weddings… I remember my first few gigs back in 1993 at the University Club in St. Paul (back when we were all still shooting film.) The caterer there put me on the short list of 2 recommended photographers for the University Club. I received frequent calls and photographed many brides and grooms at this wedding location. This opportunity jump started my career as a professional photographer. I am currently the recommended preferred photographer (also on a short list of 2) at the Mermaid Event Center in Mounds View, MN, a wedding event venue.
I have photographed weddings at numerous churches, synagogues, in parks, hotels, on a boat, on a family farm and even in a fire station. The bride was a firefighter and I even got some great photos with the dalmatian dogs! Mostly in Minnesota, but I have been fortunate to do a few road trips. For the 11-11-11 weekend, I was given the opportunity to photograph a wedding in New York City. I have traveled to Sante Fe, New Mexico where I was fortunate to take pictures of a wedding at the infamous Loredo chapel. In 2015, I was hired to photograph a destination wedding on a beach in Melbourne! No, not Australia. The destination wedding was in Melbourne, Florida.. but still! 🙂 A great event; the bride and groom were overjoyed with the images they received. And I had a blast!
My approach to weddings is to cover everything from the first phone conversation to the last kiss. Always arriving at the venue early, I make sure I leave myself plenty of time. Prior to your wedding, we discuss your needs and I will ensure I am capturing the shots that YOU desire. After almost 30 years in the business, I then add my expertise, which I bring with me to every photo shoot. At our initial consultation, I always ask for a list of the formal photos you would like, so that I will photograph the groups of people that you will want to have and so that the formal picture taking part follows seamlessly and as quickly as possible.
Brides on a Budget
As for possible packages, I photograph brides on a budget. 🙂 So, for 7 hrs, for example, at $200 per hour, plus a flash drive of ALL of your images for $300, your final price would be $1,700 (plus sales tax). Wedding photography UNDER $2,000!!! My husband says I am the best deal in town. 🙂 That is based on 7 hours of my time and the final product you will receive a flash drive of all your wedding images, from the dressing shots, to the ceremony to the reception, PLUS I will put all your images into your own personal gallery for all your friends and family to view.
Please Contact Me to Arrange for a Free Consultation
Check Out These Preferred Vendors!
Banquet Facilities
Mermaid Event Center
mermaidminnesota.com
Natallia Mattke
nmattke@mermaidminnesota.com
763.746.2141
The Mermaid Event Center is a premier entertainment and event center in Mounds View, MN for weddings, receptions, corporate events, company parties, bowling parties and more. They have it all! For your dream wedding, choose from the Garden Tent, Coral Bay or Atlantis Ballroom as they have many different lovely options. Plus!- this event center is attached to the AmericInn Hotel and Suites so you never have to leave. Certainly does come in handy after a late evening…
Award-winning event staff! Best of wedding on the KNOT, Readers-Choice Award and Brides Choice Award- Wedding Wire. Contact Natalia: She will cater to your every need. Taste-testings after bookings are a real treat and help you to decide on your menu choices. Highlights of dream wedding packages include complimentary bridal suite with whirlpool and other complimentary rooms for additional wedding events (groom’s dinner, etc.) They also have family and Friday/Sunday discounts for weddings.
Legends Club of Prior Lake
legendsgc.com
ssmeester@legendsgc.com
952.226.9990
Samantha Smeester will take care of every detail at this top notch facility to make your event picture perfect! Love the golf course for outdoor wedding photos.
Turtles Bar and Grill in Shakopee
turtlesbarandgrill.com
info@turtlesbarandgrill.com
952.445.9668
Bryan Turtle runs a one-of-a-kind facility; you will love the dark mahagony, old shakopee brick and antique type tin ceiling in their banquet room; great place for wedding ceremonies and receptions. Bryan will make sure your event is seamless!
Brackett’s Crossing Country Club in Lakeville
brackettscrossingcc.com
952.435.7600
Gorgeous ballroom and views with many facilities for both large and small events. Not to be missed!
Florist
RJKramer
rjkramer.com
mail@rjkramer.com
651.227.7091
“One of a kind in floral design! Robert Kramer and his staff provide stunning floral arrangements throughout the Twin Cities area. You will be awed and amazed! Gorgeous work! I honestly believe that every bride should use RJKramer for their wedding flowers and beyond!
Wedding Consultants
Magical Memories
mymagicalmemories.com
Marsha Golob
612.306.7090
I love working with Marsha! She handles every detail of your wedding with good cheer and efficiency. She will collaborate with you to work within your budget to make your wedding day stress-free, unforgettable and uniquely yours. Meticulous planning; modest expense. Call Marsha!
Entertainment
Norm’s Magic
MagicNorm.com
Magician-minneapolis.com<
normbarnhart@yahoo.com
651.257.7116
While we are shooting your special photos after your wedding, you might consider some comedy entertainment for your guests waiting for your arrival at the reception. This is also a fun ice breaker for the rehearsal dinner. Norm gets everyone involved with his clean, fun comedy show. You will be dazzled and amazed!
Officiant Services
www.amyjosefaariel.com
Rabbi Amy Josefa Ariel
amyjariel@gmail.com
651.285.2872
Amy loves guiding couples with their upcoming marriage and crafting a ceremony full of meaning for them. She works with the bride and groom both pre- and post ceremony to provide any and all guidance. Whatever your journey is, she would love to be a part of it. She is wonderful to work with and you will love her energy and enthusiasm. Amy is great! I highly recommend her to anyone…and in fact, she was the officiant at my daughter’s wedding! You can read my glowing review and my daughter’s on her website.
Affordable I Do’s, Wedding Officiants
affordableidos.com/
Rev. Susan Lee-Wright
612-2-Say I Do (612.272.9436)
info@affordableidos.com
Ordained ministers, registered to perform legal weddings in MN. You can design your own ceremony or use their own. They are very flexible and have many options for ceremonies. I love working with Susan. I often refer clients to her. She has built up her business, added many wonderful assistants, and provides award-winning officiant services to all wedding couples in the Twin Cities and beyond. And did I mention they are affordable? 🙂