I’m still in love with these photos at the edge of the Mississippi for Ying + Robert’s wedding at The Riverside at Minneapolis Event Centers. Self-described “nerdy folks,” Ying and Robert love Star Trek, weaving, hydroponics, and astrophotography. Ying works as a physician in primary care, focusing on patients from communities of color who have experienced historical injustices, and working to build trust and advocate for her patients to address racial inequities and challenge the broken structures of healthcare today. Robert shares Ying’s love of science, working as a mechanical engineer. He has a passion for increasing scientific literacy, normalizing science, and combating misinformation on a personal and structural level. Ying and Robert really seem made for each other, and I can just feel how much they love one another in each photo.

While many of my clients do a first look with their partner, Ying added her own twist adding a first look with her father. I loved seeing her father’s face light up when he turned around, and I felt honored to capture such a meaningful moment at the start of the day. I’ve had clients do all varieties of first looks, capturing the reactions of parents, bridesmaids, best friends, or other family members seeing their loved one all dolled up in their wedding best. These are often my favorite moments of the day, as they allow my client to meaningfully connect with their loved ones amidst a chaotic wedding day timeline.

Ying + Robert’s day was especially lovely because they put so much thought into integrating elements of Chinese culture into the decorations throughout the day. They achieved this by including the double happiness symbol on paper signs and favors, incorporating red and gold throughout, and decorating with chinoiserie blue and white vases. We kicked things off with getting ready and details photos, and then moved to couple’s photos along Saint Anthony Main. Next up were family and wedding party photos, before holding a touching and intimate ceremony at the Riverside at Minneapolis Event Centers. Ying changed her outfit before the reception, arriving in a striking red dress and dancing the night away with her new husband. The day was packed with personal and meaningful details, and I’m so happy to have captured the results of the thoughtful planning and execution. Check it out below!

Vendor List:

Venue: The Riverside at Minneapolis Event Centers

Florist: Haute House Studio

Cake/Dessert: Thirsty Whale Bakery

DJ/Band: Jeff Atchinson – Harmony DJ Entertainment

Hair + Makeup: Primped and Lady Vamp Artistry

Catering: Entourage Events Group

Ying’s Outfit: White dress from Our Shop Bridal, Chinese QiPao from East Meets Dress

Robert’s Outfit: Men’s Warehouse

Jewelry/Rings: Catbird NYC

Invitations + Programs: Minted.com

Wedding Planner/Coordinator: Haute House Studio – Melina Dillon

Considering St. Anthony Main as the location for your wedding, engagement, or portrait session? Check out my blog for Shanita + Greg’s Brunch Wedding at Aster Cafe to see more photos around the area!