Can I just say I love me some Valentine’s Day? I know people complain that it’s a manufactured holiday and we should show our loved ones how we feel every day, but there’s something so sweet about a whole day devoted to love. That can be love for your children, your spouse or significant other, your parents, your grandparents, your dog or cat. It can be love for that convenience store with the good ice or your favorite Starbucks Machi-thing (can you tell I don’t drink coffee?). In the world we live in today, there can always be more love and happiness.

I think my love for Valentine’s Day began as a child. It was always a happy day–class parties and treats. My parents would gift me with candy and a stuffed animal before school and my dad would usually have boxes of chocolate for my mom, sister and I when he came home from work. It’s just a nice day. It’s also great inspiration for a wedding. What says love and romance more than Valentine’s Day?

This shoot, organized by my friend Amanda of Mermaid Lake Photography, featured all things red, pink and heart-shaped. The florals were a mix of pink and red roses with a stunning bouquet for the bride and a classic boutonniere for the groom. The hand-painted pink tiered cake was adorned with a cascade of roses and greenery and surrounding my mini pies and heart-shaped cookies. Also on the cake table, which doubled as a kissing booth, were donuts, chocolate covered strawberries and heart-shaped rice krispie treats. The main table featured more flowers with pink and red place settings, china and an array of holiday inspired treats. The bar featured champagne and wine and the waffle bar had heart-shaped waffles, berries and cream,

The bride wore a beautiful white gown for the beginning of the shoot, opting to switch into a red ballgown for the latter half. The groom donned a classic tux with a red bowtie and the bridesmaids wore sequined rose gold dresses. The Lake of the Woods Clubhouse proved as the perfect location, with a sandy beach and beautiful waterfront.

Vendors:

Host: Mermaid Lake Photography

Venue: Lake of the Woods Clubhouse

Decor/Styling: Nance’s Rustic Rentals and Events

Wedding Dress: Amanda’s Touch Bridal and Formal

Jewelry/Shoes: Tracey Coe

Groom’s attire: Men’s Wearhouse

Bridesmaid Dresses: Lulus

Makeup: Hailey Marie

Hair: Sydney Templin

Florals: Randy’s Flowers by Endless Creations

Cake/Cookies: Sorby Sweets

Strawberries: Shari’s Berries

Donuts: Doughlicious Donuts and Bakery

Calligraphy: Bria Champey