Some wedding days feel like they were intentionally designed down to every last detail, and Abby and Rob’s celebration was exactly that. Their wedding blended deep personal meaning, timeless Catholic tradition, and the natural beauty of Leopold’s Mississippi Gardens in NE Minneapolis, Minnesota, a venue that holds a uniquely special place in their story.
A Venue That’s Part of Their Love Story
Leopold’s Mississippi Gardens wasn’t just a backdrop for the day, it was a piece of Abby and Rob’s shared life. Rob is the landscape designer for the venue and helps maintain the grounds throughout the year. The two of them even chose the iconic riverfront rock together, long before it became the setting for their portraits. Photographing them there felt like capturing a chapter of their own history.
A Vision for Photography
From the beginning, Abby and Rob had a clear, thoughtful vision for their wedding photography. It was a priority woven into the entire timeline, and I was honored to be trusted with bringing that vision to life. We built portrait time throughout the day, ensuring their gallery would be full of variety, beauty, and emotion.
Their love for architectural beauty made their ceremony location especially meaningful. Holy Cross Catholic Church in NE Minneapolis is breathtaking: soaring arches, stained glass, marble details, and a sense of sacred grandeur that perfectly matched Abby’s appreciation for historic church design.
Morning Moments & Getting Ready
The day began early with Abby and her bridesmaids starting the morning in matching PJs, sharing laughter and anticipation. Meanwhile, Rob and his groomsmen prepared for the day with classic style from Millbern’s.
The morning included several emotional first looks: bridesmaids, Abby’s dad, and finally Abby and Rob. Each one was heartfelt, joyful, and beautifully personal.
Portraits at Leopold’s Mississippi Gardens
Our first portrait session took place at the venue, where the gardens were lush, colorful, and glowing in the morning light. With a large wedding party (7 bridesmaids, 7 groomsmen, an usher, and a reader), we kept the energy high and the posing efficient, capturing both classic groupings and fun, candid moments.
Family portraits followed, framed by the greenery and river views that make Leopold’s so iconic.
A Sacred, Meaningful Ceremony
At Holy Cross Catholic Church, Abby and Rob exchanged vows in a full Catholic Mass with Communion. The church’s architecture created a stunning visual narrative with arched ceilings, marble columns, stained glass windows, gold colors throughout, and the quiet reverence of a sacred space.
After the ceremony, we gathered all the guests on the exit staircase for a joyful group photo and a moment full of cheers and celebration. [Insert staircase photo/s. I just think that would be a unique shot to see, if it turned out.]
Minneapolis Skyline Portraits
Before heading to the reception, we made a quick stop at Boom Island Park for couple’s portraits. Abby and Rob wanted images with the Minneapolis skyline, and the city delivered. These portraits were intimate, modern, and full of movement. Just the two of them, soaking in the moment before the festivities continued.
Planning your own wedding in Minnepolis? I’d love to help document your day in a way that allows you to be fully present with the people you love most while preserving the moments you’ll want to remember forever. Learn more about wedding photography with Rachel Lahlum Photography.
Reception at Leopold’s Mississippi Gardens
The reception began with a grand entrance straight into the couple’s first dance. It was a beautiful way to set the tone for the evening. Guests enjoyed dinner, cake cutting, and one of my favorite reception activities: the Table Dash Game. Abby and Rob visited every table for a photo in under one song, capturing memories with all their guests in less than five minutes.
A downpour of rain cut sunset photos from the schedule, but because we had already captured so many portraits earlier in the day, it didn’t impact their gallery at all. Sometimes flexibility is the secret to a stress‑free wedding day.
Singing in the Rain
Later in the evening, when the rain softened, we stepped outside for a few magical nighttime portraits. Abby and Rob love musicals, so we recreated a few styled images inspired by Singing in the Rain. With the umbrellas, reflections and soft light, these photos became some of the most romantic of the entire day.
We wrapped the night with a final set of portraits after guests had departed. Abby and Rob shared a private last dance, with just the two of them (and me quietly photographing from the corner). It was tender, emotional, and the perfect ending to a beautiful day.
Planning a Wedding at Leopold’s Mississippi Gardens?
If your wedding vision includes stunning imagery, meaningful details and joyful moments that capture the heart of your day, I’d love to photograph it for you. From quiet, emotional exchanges to big, laughter‑filled celebrations, I focus on crafting a timeless visual story with all the moments that are important to you.
Vendor Team
Photography – Rachel Lahlum
Hair & Makeup – Gypsy Hair Guru
Bride’s Dress Designer – Martina Liana
Bridesmaids Dresses – Azazie
Photography – Rachel Lahlum
Hair & Makeup – Gypsy Hair Guru
Bride’s Dress Designer – Martina Liana
Bridesmaids Dresses – Azazie
Groom & Groomsmen Attire – Millbern’s
Wedding Rings – Continental Diamond
Wedding Invites – Zola
Floral – Sweet Pea’s Floral
DJ – Instant Request
Reception Venue – Leopold’s Mississippi Gardens
Ceremony – Holy Cross Catholic Church, NE Minneapolis
Videography – Make Your Memory HQ (Nick)