Small town weddings. I mean it when I say they hit differently. There’s something about a wedding where literally everything has a story behind it and every single detail is rooted in family and history. That’s what Matthew and Mattie’s day in Freeport, Minnesota, was. Through and through. And I am so, so honored I got to be there for all of it.

These two were both born and raised in Freeport. And instead of heading somewhere else to get married, they leaned alllll the way into their hometown, and the result was one of the most intentional, meaningful wedding days I’ve ever had the privilege of documenting.

Getting Ready at Home 

They got ready at their home and Matthew’s parents’ home. Mattie got into her gown (that sleek, fitted beauty with the button-all-the-way-down back?? so chic) with the help of her mom, while Matthew was getting ready at his parents’ place.

All the First Looks

Okay, can we talk about the first looks that happened before the ceremony? Because they were ALL so sweet! First came the look with Dad. He turned around, took her in, and that smile said absolutely everything. Then came a first look with the guys in her wedding party.

And then. Matthew. He turned around, walked toward her with this smile on his face that I will think about for a long time, grabbed her hands, and just looked at her like he couldn’t quite believe it. These moments are exactly what my job is all about!!

Ceremony at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church 

Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Freeport is stunning. And it’s their family church. Matthew walked down the aisle escorted by both his parents, and then Mattie came down on her dad’s arm. When you get married in the church where your family has worshipped for generations, there’s a weight to it. And it showed in every single moment of that ceremony. 

Reception on Family Land

The reception was held right on Matthew’s family property, under a gorgeous sailcloth tent as the summer evening light settled in around them. 

Because apparently the kids in attendance were armed with bubble guns, and they absolutely deployed them the moment Matthew and Mattie walked towards the reception. Mattie was laughing so hard she could barely walk through the bubble cloud surrounding them. It was chaotic and perfect and completely, totally them. I love a couple who doesn’t take themselves too seriously. 

Golden Hour Moments in a Field

And then there was golden hour. We drove out to a family friend’s field just outside of town, and Matthew pulled his grandpa’s old red Chevy truck off to the side of the tall grass. We got set up for portraits, and when I turned around to look at the frame, I saw it — the Sacred Heart church steeple rising up in the background, perfectly framed above the trees, just across the field. Very cool moment!

Sweet Words from the Bride

“They are so perfect and so beautiful. You captured us so well and I can’t wait to see them all! I got teary eyed looking at them because it’s everything I dreamed our photos would look like and more. You have such a gift!! I have no idea how we are going to pick which ones to print. Thank you so so much! 

Planning Your Small Town Wedding in Minnesota?

This is exactly the kind of day that reminds me why I love what I do. Your roots run deep, your love runs deeper, and I am so grateful I got to be there. 🤍 

If you’re dreaming of your own small town wedding in Minnesota, I would absolutely love to be your photographer. Reach out here, and let’s make your wedding story unforgettable! 

Vendor Spotlight:

• Photography: @ameliajophoto 
• Hair: Studio Eclipse
• Makeup: Katie Berg
• Entertainment: Midwest Sound 
• Florist: Bloom Thyme 
• Catering: Cornerstone Catering Co, Albany MN 
• Dress: Emily Kaye Bridal of Nisswa |
• Suit: Halberstadt’s Men Clothiers 
• Rings: D.J. Bitzan Jewelers