Bright, sunny, and 80 degrees. Not exactly what you expect for an October wedding in Minnesota. When Alexis and Nick planned their early fall wedding at Pinewood Weddings and Events in Cambridge, MN, this kind of weather wasn’t on the forecast. It ended up being one of those rare days that just felt right from the start.
Lately, I’ve noticed more couples choosing smaller, more intimate weddings, and Alexis and Nick were no different. With just 35 of their closest family members present, the day felt calm and full of joy. There was time to slow down, to linger in conversations, and to be fully present with the people who mattered most. That mattered even more as Alexis’s father had recently been diagnosed with a terminal illness. Keeping the guest list small gave everyone space to experience the day as it unfolded, without distractions.
My day began the way it usually does, with details and quiet moments while everyone got ready. Alexis and Nick wanted to keep things traditional and see each other for the first time down the aisle. We took a few portraits of Alexis beforehand and then made sure she stayed well out of sight until it was time.
The ceremony started at 3 p.m., tucked among tall pine trees that gave the space a soft, woodsy feel. Pinewood is one of those venues where you never have to search very hard for a good photo spot. The ceremony itself was emotional in the best way. There was laughter, a few tears, and a lot of heartfelt moments. One of the most memorable was Nick’s vows. He and Alexis not only share a birthday with each other, but also with Dr. Seuss. Nick leaned into that and wrote his vows in rhyming Dr. Seuss fashion, which had everyone smiling. They also share a love of whiskey and chose a unity ceremony centered around creating an infinity decanter.
The reception followed the same relaxed, intentional tone. Dinner came from a taco truck (Gastrotruck), which guests loved. Dessert was anything but ordinary, with cupcakes, caramel apples, and a DIY s’mores bar by North Mallow. Instead of a DJ and a packed dance floor, Alexis and Nick chose a two-man country cover band called KC Cameron. As someone who loves country music, I was completely on board with that decision. Guests spent the evening talking, playing corn hole on the patio, and dancing here and there.
It was never about filling every moment. The day moved at its own pace, and that’s exactly what made it feel so true to Alexis and Nick.
Vendors that made it possible:
- Venue: Pinewood Weddings and Events
- Photography: Framing Fairytales
- Dress: Ellynne Bridal
- Bakery: Smallcakes Cupcakes
- Smores Bar: North Mallow
- Catering: Gastrotruck
- Band: KC Cameron
