Bonnie & Justin | September 1, 2018 | Panola Valley Gardens

An Elegant Garden Party Wedding

When Bonnie and Justin asked me to be their wedding photographer, I knew their day would be a beautiful day filled with joy, love, and houseplants!  I've known Bonnie for many years, growing up as neighbors (she and my sister are BFFs for life) and then I was fortunate to work for her parents at their family-owned and operated greenhouse.

Bonnie and Justin chose to see each other that day when they met walking down the aisle. They got ready first at the hotel, and then at the separate rooms at Panola Valley Gardens. They shared their vows beneath the pavilion, surrounded by friends and family, and exited in a sea of bubbles. After the ceremony, we took photos at Panola and visited Gammelgarden (one of my favorite locations ever) for wedding party and couples portraits. Their reception and dance were held at Rudy's Redeye Grill in White Bear Lake. Guests received a succulent plant as a party favor as they entered (I totally geeked out when I received a variegated string-of-pearls plant) -- and Bonnie made all the centerpieces herself using plants she had grown! After an excellent meal, Bonnie and Justin warmed up the dance floor with their first dance, dances with their parents, and Justin shared a special dance with his daughter, Olivia. The night ended with a bouquet toss, the shoe game, the song "Love Shack" by the B-52's (Bonnie's father's favorite song), and some outdoor night portraits.
 

VENDORS:

Photography - Rachel Lahlum Photography

Bridal Gown - The Wedding Shoppe

Groom's Attire - Men's Warehouse

Bridesmaids Dresses - David's Bridal

Floral - Sweet Peas

Ceremony Venue - Panola Valley Gardens

Reception & Catering - Rudy's Redeye Grill

Cake - Grandma's Bakery

Centerpieces & Party Favors - DIY (Succulents by Wayne's Greenhouses and Garden Center)

DJ - Midwest Sound