There’s something so special about photographing a Woods Retreat wedding in Orono, MN. Tucked just a few minutes from Lake Minnetonka, this venue feels like a peaceful escape surrounded by trees, rolling lawns, and the soft sound of water nearby. As a Lake Minnetonka wedding photographer, I love that it’s only an eight-minute drive from home! It’s close enough to feel familiar, yet every time I’m here it feels like stepping into a little hidden world made for timeless celebrations.
Let’s dive into my favorite photo locations, planning tips, and local recommendations to help you envision your dream wedding!
About The Woods Retreat (Orono, MN)
Tucked just west of Lake Minnetonka, The Woods Retreat offers an elegant yet relaxed setting for a wedding in the Twin Cities metro. Located at 525 Leaf Street in Orono, MN, the venue spans about five acres of wooded grounds with rich photo-friendly architecture and landscape.
Venue Spaces & Photo Backdrops
- The main event space is a two-story, 10,000-square-foot historic chapel building — newly refreshed and full of character.
- Outdoors you have a large amphitheatre overlooking a pond (seating up to ~350) plus wide terraces and a waterfall-patio area.
- There’s a guest cottage with getting-ready suites: upstairs Maxwell Suite, downstairs Stubbs Suite, and a third suite in the chapel’s 2nd floor.
- For photography, you’re spoiled: wooded paths, pond views, stone terraces, bridges, indoor chapel light, sweeping windows + more!
- The seated guest capacity is up to ~250 indoors; standing/overflow capacity can exceed 300.
Pricing & Vendor Policy
- Base pricing starts around $5,000 for the venue (for larger guest counts) in the Twin Cities area.
- Outside caterers are permitted for an additional fee of $2000 flat, giving couples flexibility beyond the preferred vendor list.
- Beverage service is managed through a specific partner (for example, they mention a professional beverage provider) which means couples should plan accordingly with the venue’s liquor/hosted bar policies.
Planning a Woods Retreat Wedding
Every couple who books The Woods Retreat quickly realizes just how versatile this Orono venue is. Whether you’re planning a spring garden celebration or a cozy autumn gathering under the trees, the property adapts beautifully to the season.
Best Seasons and Lighting for Photos
From a photographer’s point of view, this venue has gorgeous light nearly all year.
- Spring and early summer bring soft greenery and blooming florals along the pond — ideal for romantic portraits.
- Late summer has that classic Minnesota golden-hour glow across the terrace and amphitheater.
- Fall is breathtaking here — the surrounding trees turn shades of amber and rust, adding rich tones to every frame.
Because the property has both open lawns and shaded woods, you’ll always find flattering light, even on bright afternoons.
Ceremony & Reception Layouts
Most couples choose the outdoor amphitheater for their ceremony, with guests seated beneath the canopy of trees and a view of the pond just beyond. The chapel works perfectly as a rain backup or for couples wanting a more traditional indoor ceremony. For receptions, the stone terraces or main hall provide elegant, flexible spaces that can transition from dinner to dancing without feeling cramped.
I love that everything is within a short walking distance. It keeps the day flowing smoothly and lets us move quickly between portraits, cocktail hour, and your grand entrance.
Vendor Collaboration & Planning Tips
One of the things I appreciate most about The Woods Retreat is how open they are to creative collaboration. Couples can bring in their own vendors (for a small outside vendor fee) or choose from the venue’s preferred list of trusted local partners.
Because the venue gives 12-hour access on the day, you’ll have plenty of time for setup, prep photos, and those beautiful “just married” golden-hour portraits after the ceremony.
A few quick planning tips from me as your photographer:
- Schedule portraits 1–2 hours before sunset for that magical light along the pond.
- Have a clear rain plan — the chapel and covered terrace make gorgeous backup locations.
- Bring comfortable shoes for photos around the grounds; the terrain varies between paved, stone, and lawn.
- Use the suites early in the day — they have amazing natural window light that flatters hair & makeup photos.
From a logistics standpoint, The Woods Retreat offers the best of both worlds: the serenity of a private property and the convenience of being just minutes from major highways, hotels, and the Lake Minnetonka area.
Nearby Hotels for Your Woods Retreat Wedding
If you’re hosting guests from out of town, there are some truly beautiful hotels and stays within 10–15 minutes of The Woods Retreat. Each offers something unique — from lake views to cozy comfort — and they all photograph beautifully for getting-ready moments.
🏨 The Shoreline Hotel — Spring Park, MN (on Lake Minnetonka)
Distance: ≈ 10 minutes from The Woods Retreat
Vibe: Modern lakeside boutique with tropical flair
Why couples love it: It’s the first new hotel on Lake Minnetonka in over a century, offering 27 designer rooms with private decks overlooking the water. The onsite restaurant, Cabana Anna’s, serves coastal-inspired dishes and craft cocktails — perfect for rehearsal dinners or post-wedding brunch.
Tip: Book early — it’s small and often fills for summer weekends.
🔗 shorelinehotel.com
🏨 The Hotel Landing — Wayzata, MN
Distance: ≈ 10 minutes
Vibe: Luxury boutique in downtown Wayzata
Why couples love it: Beautiful modern interiors, a relaxing spa, and walkable access to the lakefront. The bright suites and neutral tones make an ideal backdrop for getting-ready photos. Dine downstairs at ninetwentyfive, or step out for drinks along the Wayzata Bay boardwalk.
🔗 thehotellanding.com
🏨 Sheraton Minneapolis West — Minnetonka, MN
Distance: ≈ 12 minutes
Vibe: Full-service hotel with space for large guest blocks
Why couples love it: Affordable, comfortable, and great for accommodating family groups. Offers an indoor pool, shuttle options, and easy access to I-394 and Hwy 12 for smooth travel to the venue.
🔗 marriott.com
🏨 Country Inn & Suites — Plymouth, MN
Distance: ≈ 15 minutes
Vibe: Relaxed and family-friendly
Why couples love it: Budget-friendly option with group rates and complimentary breakfast. It’s perfect for out-of-town guests who want convenience and comfort without the higher downtown rates.
🔗 radissonhotelsamericas.com
🏡 Airbnbs & Lake Minnetonka Rentals
For couples who love a cozy, personalized experience, there are plenty of charming Airbnbs around Orono, Mound, and Long Lake. Many offer private docks, hot tubs, or large patios — perfect for hosting a welcome dinner or morning-after brunch.
Why Couples Love The Woods Retreat
It’s easy to see why couples fall in love with The Woods Retreat in Orono, MN. The property feels like a peaceful hideaway surrounded by trees and water, yet it’s just minutes from Lake Minnetonka and downtown Wayzata. The chapel’s tall windows flood the room with soft light, while the stone terraces, tree-lined amphitheatre, and pond bridge create endless photo opportunities. As evening falls, the string lights and reflections on the water turn everything golden.
From a photographer’s perspective, the layout flows perfectly- natural light, easy movement between spaces, and stunning backdrops in every season. Whether it’s the bright greens of spring or warm autumn tones, this venue makes every wedding feel cinematic and personal.
Woods Retreat Wedding Gallery
Here are some sneaks from Abby and Hunter’s beautiful day at The Woods Retreat Wedding Venue in Orono, MN.
About Heidi Straus Photography
I’m Heidi Straus, a Lake Minnetonka–based wedding photographer capturing weddings in a true-to-life, documentary style — with just a touch of cinematic flair. My work focuses on real connection, natural light, and the fleeting in-between moments that make your day uniquely yours.
✨ Planning a Woods Retreat wedding? I’d love to tell your story. Inquire below!
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