There’s something sooo special about weddings that feel deeply personal. The ones that are rooted in memories and legacy. That’s exactly what Mercede & Adam’s Minnesota courthouse wedding was all about. 

These two said “I do” right on the lawn of the Beltrami County Courthouse, the same courthouse where Mercede’s parents were married years ago. Her parents have since passed, and it was so important to her that their legacy was part of the day.

From there, the celebration moved to a gorgeous backyard reception that felt like an elevated dinner party full of laughter, love, and wood-fired pizza (yes, really). Every part of this wedding was rooted in intention, and I was so dang honored to document it all.

First Look + Private Vows on the Courthouse Lawn

I joined them just before the first look, and oh my gosh, the courthouse served as the most beautiful backdrop! Classic, timeless, emotional… everything. They took a quiet moment to share private vows before the ceremony, and it was just the sweetest, most intentional pause in the day. You could just feel the love!

A Minnesota Courthouse Wedding Ceremony with Family

The ceremony took place on the front lawn of the Beltrami County Courthouse, surrounded by their closest family and friends. Mercede’s stepdad walked her down the aisle (sweetest moment!!), and they reserved two front-row seats for her parents. It felt like such a full-circle moment for Mercede, and even though there were tears, there was so much joy too. 

After the ceremony, guests tossed flower petals as Mercede and Adam shared the most iconic dip kiss to celebrate. Like, full-on movie moment. It was perfect!

Vintage Car Joy Ride

After the ceremony and capturing some wedding party photos, Mercede & Adam hopped into her grandpa’s vintage blue Chevy, complete with a “Just Married” bow on the back, and cruised around the lake. I mean… COME ON. It was such a fun, laid-back way to soak in those just-married vibes.

Elevated Backyard Wedding Reception

After the joy ride around the lake, the celebration continued at Mercede’s stepdad’s home. They had transformed the backyard into the dreamiest party under the trees.

The vibe was intentional and elegant, but still so warm and relaxed. Guests dined under twinkle lights at round tables spread across the lawn, surrounded by the quiet of the woods and the soft golden light of fall. Mercede wanted the reception to feel like an elevated dinner party for their favorite people — and that’s exactly what it was.

Wood-fired pizza kept everyone full and happy, while a black-and-white checkered dance floor added the perfect splash of style for dancing later in the night. There was a stunning three-tier cake, a champagne tower (yes, a real one!!), and all the cozy touches that made the evening feel personal and beautifully thought-out.

The couple sat together at their sweetheart table, cuddled up as friends and family shared stories, toasts, and all the love.

Golden Hour Wedding Portraits + A Surprise Dress Moment

Just when I thought the day couldn’t get any more magical, we snuck away to a nearby field for golden hour portraits. And the light was absolute perfection! These two ran through the grass, laughed their hearts out, and looked like the cover of a romance novel. 10/10 perfection.

And THEN. Just before the night wrapped up, Mercede changed into a party dress. But it wasn’t just any dress. She had taken her mom’s wedding gown and had it altered for dancing the night away. 

Sweet Words from the Bride

“Amelia!!! I don’t even have the words to express how grateful I am for you. You went SO far above and beyond capturing our day!!!! Every moment, every detail, every emotion… and it shows in every single photo. I’ve been absolutely bawling going through the sneak peeks because they’re more beautiful and meaningful 😭😭😭😭😭 

Thank you for not just taking pictures, but for preserving memories that I’ll cherish for the rest of my life. You truly have a gift, and I feel so lucky that you were the one behind the camera on the most important day of our lives ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️”

Planning Your Own Minnesota Courthouse Wedding?

If you’ve ever thought about skipping the big traditional wedding and doing something more personal, a Minnesota courthouse wedding might be exactly what you need. You can keep it simple or dress it up, just like Mercede and Adam did!

And if you’re dreaming of your own Minnesota wedding, whether at a family home or one of the amazing Minnesota wedding venues, I’d love to be the one documenting it all. Reach out here, and let’s make your wedding story unforgettable!

Vendor Spotlight

Photography: Me, Amelia Jo Photo, and SS: Karli Crane

Content Creator: @gracemylermedia @theweddingeditbygmm 

Venue: Private Residence 

Bride: Formalities MN

Groom: Patterson’s Clothing

Jeweler: Ken K Thompson Jewelry

Catering: Woodfire DL

Cake: @angrydonkeywalker