Intimate Summer Wedding | Lake Elmo Inn | Wendy + Brian

By jeanninemarie

Wendy and Brian’s intimate summer wedding was full of bright colors and big smiles. These two could not stop looking at each other, grinning from ear to ear all day long. It was absolutely an honor to witness their love and be a part of their wedding celebration. From the florals to the details, the day was wrapped in warm summer hues of pink and orange that set the tone for a celebration that was as vibrant as the couple themselves.

Their day began with a private first look, followed by an intimate ceremony at Woodbury Lutheran Church. They both attend the church, and their faith is a big piece of their story together, so they couldn’t envision getting married anywhere else.

For both Wendy and Brian, this is a second marriage. Having already celebrated big weddings the first time around, they both knew exactly what they wanted this time: something small and meaningful, centered on their faith and family.

“We love that our relationship is faith-based with good communication.”

-Wendy

“I love that Brian has an enormous heart. He is such a gentleman and is very thoughtful, gentle. He knows how to treat a lady! He also is very willing to help out!”

-Wendy

“Wendy has the hugest heart to love and care for others. She has a drive that is nonstop, keeps me on my toes.”

-Brian

THEIR LOVE STORY

Brian’s mom lived in Wendy’s neighborhood, and the two crossed paths at a neighborhood gathering. Wendy spotted him looking her way, but she couldn’t stay long since she was heading on a trip the next day.

At that same gathering, Brian heard about a little goat farm tucked along a nearby walking path, and that Wendy was the only neighbor who actually knew how to find it. When Wendy returned from her trip, Brian ran into her again and asked if she would show him the way. She agreed, on one condition: He’d have to keep up with her!

This turned into a six-mile walk, filled with conversation and the kind of getting-to-know-you that sets the foundation for something real. From there, the two continued taking walks together and building a connection that kept growing. Their bond deepened even further on a mission trip to Jamaica.

In July of 2025, over dinner at Holman’s Table, Brian and Wendy got engaged. Brian was so dedicated to the proposal, that he got down on one knee and tore his meniscus in the process, requiring surgery!

THE SWEET RIDE

For their wedding transportation, Wendy and Brian wanted to drive around in style. They hired Steve Oakins from the North St. Paul Car Show. He drove them around in his ’67 Cadillac Coupe DeVille!

THE RECEPTION

Following the ceremony, the couple and their family had a small reception at the Lake Elmo Inn. After a great dinner, they had cake from Dorothy Ann Bakery. For their first dance, they chose (I’ve Had) The Time of My Life, a fitting-joy-filled anthem for two people so clearly head over heels.

There is something uniquely beautiful about finding your person later in life. These two built their relationship one walk at a time, grounded in faith, communication, and genuine care. This is what happens when two people get a second chance at love, and choose, wholeheartedly, to take it.

When I asked these two what they were most excited about for the wedding, Brian said finally being joined together. And Wendy said being with her best friend for the rest of her life.

Congratulations to Wendy and Brian!

Thank you for welcoming me into your beautiful, intimate day.

LOVE NOTE FROM THE COUPLE

“We received Jeannine’s information from a friend. When we came to meet & talk to her, we felt a connection right away. She was interested in hearing our story, how we met, and things that were important to us. She really took the time, unrushed and unhurried. We left knowing she was going to be our photographer.”

-Wendy & Brian