This summer, I had the privilege of photographing a gorgeous wedding at Minnetonka Orchards. This was my first time visiting the apple orchard, and let me tell you, it was spectacular. From the moment I arrived to this quaint little countryside venue, I was greeted by one big, beautiful tent where several guests were helping set up for the reception. My second photographer and I made our way toward the bride and bridesmaids to start shooting “getting ready” photos.

The wedding coordinator escorted us through the enchanting forest where a secluded half-barn (complete with vanities, dressers, and mirrors) lay. Here we snagged candids of the sweet little flower girls dancing around, bridesmaids laughing and drinking mimosas, and the bride’s first look with her dad.

Soon after, it was time for the bride and groom’s first look, so we made our way back through the winding trails where we could perfectly coordinate the rendezvous. One thing I should note about this couple is the groom’s unique and zany humor. When the bride approached him from behind, he bent over pretending to pick up a quarter. It made for a good laugh! But it was also a very sweet and tender moment, watching this couple laugh and then cry. Moreover, having played some music with the groom in the past, and having recently graduated with the bride at our college, I was deeply honored to be part of their big day. I knew that capturing beautiful memories of their wedding was going to be sweet.

So after the first look, the wedding party hopped on a tractor-trailer for a jolly-ol’ ride through the orchard. They even had a spot on the hay ride for me! Next, everyone gathered together for the ceremony. The little outdoor chapel, neatly overlooking the apple orchard, was one of the most perfect locations for both the bride and groom. This unique and beautiful venue made my job easy-breezy. After the bride and groom said their “I do’s,” the wedding party and guests wandered back through the woods and reconvened at the big tent for the reception. Here, the guests were greeted with giant buckets of kettle corn, cotton candy, and ice cold lemonade (yum!).

Finally, as the sun was setting, the bride and groom shared their first dance together under an enchanting canopy of Edison bulbs. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day.

To see more of Gregory’s work, visit his listing here: Hayes Photography & Film and check him out on Instagram at @gregoryallenhayes