Lexi and Jared’s wedding at The Bluebelle Event Venue was emotional from the very beginning. Bemidji already meant so much to them because Lexi’s family has a cabin on Lake Bemidji, so choosing to get married here was about celebrating in a place that already held so many memories for them.
And honestly, August at The Bluebelle? SO good.
The property is lush and green, especially with the hydrangea path connecting the venue to the ceremony site in full bloom. It is one of my favorite times of year to photograph a wedding here because the whole property just looks extra dreamy.





The morning started with everyone getting ready at the venue, and Lexi’s bridal look was stunning. Her dress had the most beautiful lace detailing through the sides and back, paired with a clean fitted silhouette and that long scarf-style veil. It felt modern and timeless at the same time, and photographed SO beautifully.
There were also so many sweet moments before the ceremony.
Lexi did a first look with her bridesmaids, and their reactions were exactly what you want from your girls. She also shared a first look with her dad, while Jared had his own moment with his mom. I love when couples build these little pockets of time into the day because they give you a chance to actually be present with the people who matter most before everything starts moving fast.
You can have the gorgeous venue, the beautiful dress, the flowers, and the reception design, but the moments in between are what make the day feel like yours. And this day had so many of them.















Lexi and Jared knew they didn’t want to see each other before the ceremony, but they still wanted a private moment together. So instead of doing a traditional first look, they stood back-to-back and exchanged their vows privately.
I LOVE this option for couples who want both.
You still get that quiet time together before the ceremony, without giving up the anticipation of seeing each other for the first time down the aisle. You can hold hands, hear each other’s voices, laugh, cry, and have a few minutes that are completely yours without actually seeing each other. And in Lexi and Jared’s case, saving that first look for the ceremony was absolutely worth it.



When Jared finally saw Lexi walking toward him, he completely lost it. And THAT is why I love it when couples choose whatever timeline feels right for them, instead of feeling like they have to do a first look just because everyone else does.
There is no one correct way to structure your wedding day.
For Lexi and Jared, waiting until the ceremony made that moment incredibly meaningful. You can literally see the emotion all over Jared’s face, and once they’re standing together, the way he looks at her is just… UGH. So good.






If you’re considering a summer wedding at The Bluebelle Event Venue, August is my favorite time to do it. One of the best parts of the property this time of year is the hydrangea-lined path between the main venue and the ceremony space. By August, those hydrangeas are in full bloom and make the walk through the property feel so dang beautiful.
The venue also gives you a really nice mix of spaces throughout the day.
You have the bright, clean getting-ready areas, the wooded ceremony setting, open grassy spaces for wedding party and couple portraits, and then the indoor reception space once everyone is ready to eat and PARTY.
And because everything is on the same property, you aren’t spending half your wedding day driving between locations, which is a big win.









The wedding design was elegant and classic. The wedding party wore all black, which looked so clean against all the summer greenery, while white baby’s breath carried through the bouquets and ceremony decor. I especially loved how the reception space came together.
Long wooden tables, sage-toned runners, candlelight everywhere, greenery overhead, and strands of warm lights across the ceiling made the room feel cozy even with a full guest list.




If you’re dreaming about a wedding at The Bluebelle Event Venue in Bemidji, I would absolutely love to be back here.
Wedding planning can feel like a lot, but finding your photographer? Consider that box checked! If you want someone who will hype you up, fix your veil, and catch every little in-between moment, I’m your girl. Reach out here and let’s start planning your Bemidji wedding!


Vendor Spotlight
Venue: Bluebelle Event Venue
Photography: Me, Amelia Jo Photo
Videography: Gravier Street Films
Catering: Minnesota Nice Cafe
Bridal HMUA: Avedon Beauty
Bridal Dress: Klaudia and Co Bridal