“I just saw our preview photos and NOW I’M CRYING AT WORK. You are so incredibly talented!”

– Alexis, Bride

A Saint Paul microwedding is the perfect way to celebrate in a meaningful way. If you’re considering a small wedding in Minnesota, Lex and Phil’s day is the perfect inspiration. When they reached out to me through my contact form to document their intimate celebration in the city, I was thrilled. Not only was it happening just 10 minutes from my home, but their values- intentionality, authenticity, and presence- perfectly aligned with what I hold close as a documentary-style wedding photographer.

Gone are the days of needing to hop on a plane to create the intimate wedding of your dreams. If your heart is set on gathering with your closest humans right here in Minnesota, this guide is for you.

Planning Your Saint Paul Microwedding

One of the things I love most about working with my couples is collaborating on timelines to ensure every meaningful moment is documented. For Lex and Phil, their Saint Paul microwedding began at the Hyatt Place in Downtown Saint Paul, just a mile from their ceremony site.

I started the morning capturing the quiet moments of Phillip soaking it all in with his mom and sisters. Then, I focused on their wedding details- items I always encourage couples to select with sentimental value in mind. For Lex and Phil, these included their cologne and perfume, gleaming gold Brilliant Earth wedding bands, her hydrangea bouquet, square-toed heels, and her timeless Park & Fifth Co. gown.

One of my favorite parts of documenting details is finding creative ways to showcase them. That morning, I leaned into the dramatic beams of window light streaming through the room, contrasting them with the dark bathroom backdrop and direct flash for an editorial effect.

Intimate Ceremony at Irvine Park in Saint Paul

Irvine Park in Saint Paul served as the perfect backdrop for Lex and Phil’s ceremony and portraits. With it’s quaint charm, central fountain, and sun gleaming through the droplets, the setting felt like it was made for their love story.

Their family gathered close as they exchanged heartfelt vows in a short, sweet ceremony officiated by Phillip’s sister. After they celebrated with a kiss, we split ways from the rest of the guests to sneak away for something a little extra special.

Private Cocktail Hour at Parlour Bar in Saint Paul

Just down the road from Irvine Park, we stepped into Parlour Bar, known for its handcrafted cocktails and cozy vintage atmosphere. While their guests enjoyed a cocktail hour at the beloved Cossettas Italian Restaurant, Lex and Phil took this time for themselves.

As an experience-based photographer, I deeply encourage couples to plan a private moment into their wedding day timeline. It’s a chance to breath, connect, and let the reality of the day sink in- without the pressure to perform.

After capturing a few editorial-inspired flash portraits of them sipping their drinks and savoring the moment, I left them to soak in the beauty of their brand-new marriage. These quiet, intentional moments are the ones that linger long after the day is over.

Dinner Party Reception at Cossettas in Saint Paul

At their dinner-party-style reception at Cossetta’s, I was lucky enough to sit across from their grandma. This part of their Saint Paul microwedding felt so intimate and joyful, filled with laughter and connection. As I documented these moments, I heard stories about a young Phillip declaring that someday he wanted to eat spaghetti at his wedding. (Dream big, kids!) Watching him share that plate of spaghetti with Lex, the love of his life, was the perfect reminder of how full-circle these days can feel.

Between heartfelt toasts, giggles over shared memories, and glasses raised to celebrate their love, the evening was a beautiful reflection of everything Lex and Phil had dreamed of for their day.

My Heartfelt Thank-You

To the couples and families who welcome me so fully into these magical moments: thank you. It’s an honor to tag along, notice all the small details, and document them as a memoir of your day—a love story you’ll revisit for years to come.