The Blog

Read all about The Machine Shop in Minneapolis, a historical venue with a modern touch! Book Heidi as your documentary wedding photographer!

The Machine Shop in Minneapolis

A couple is lounging on a black couch, with the woman in a white wedding dress lying on the lap of the man in a dark suit. Both wear a relaxed expression. White curtains are in the background at the machine shop in minneapolis

As a wedding photographer, I’ve had the privilege of shooting in numerous beautiful venues, but few compare to the Van Dusen Mansion in Minneapolis, MN! It is one of my favorite venues and should definitely be considered as your wedding venue!

The Van Dusen Mansion: Wedding Venue in Minneapolis

North Shore Engagement Locations If you’re considering capturing engagement photos with your significant other, Minnesota’s stunning North Shore is the perfect backdrop! Whether you’re seeking cliffs, beaches, or forests, the North Shore has it all. In this blog, I’ll review the best North Shore engagement locations!

Best North Shore Engagement Locations

A man holding his girl in his arms, dipping her as they kiss with a beautiful snow covered back drop on the North Shore of Minnesota

Planning a wedding involves making countless decisions, from choosing the perfect venue to selecting the right vendors. Among these decisions, one crucial aspect is budgeting! According to The Knot, the average cost of a wedding in Minnesota is $31,000. However, this number can vary significantly based on individual preferences and priorities. Let’s dive deeper into breaking down the average cost of a wedding in Minnesota and identifying your top priorities when it comes to vendors!

The Average Cost of a Wedding in Minnesota

Wedding couple walking out of the church as guests throw eucalyptus confetti at them

If you’re looking for a complete wedding day shot list to ensure you capture every single beautiful moment- then this is for you! Say goodbye to missed moments! This comprehensive wedding day shot list covers it all. Create memories that last a lifetime, a long with some bonus tips for the best wedding day ever. Let’s dive right in!

A Complete Wedding Day Shot List – 2024

Champagne spray of bride and bridesmaids in matching robes

If you’re looking for a wedding day timeline example, this blog is for you! Finding a wedding day timeline for your big day can be so intimidating and stressful! As a professional wedding and elopement photographer with countless weddings under my belt, I can assure you that I have the perfect schedule for your wedding day! Below you will find two different wedding day timeline examples depending on whether you’re doing a first look or not.

Wedding Day Timeline Example

Bride and Groom dip kissing at the end of the aisle while guests throw eucalyptus confetti at them

Many couples have been on the fence lately trying to decide between having a Wedding vs an Elopement. For some couples it’s a no brainer- whereas others have some questions…What is the difference? Which one is better to do? Which one is more affordable? How does one decide, etc. While both have pro’s and cons, I’m here to help you decide which one is a better fit for YOU! Let’s dive in!

Wedding vs Elopement

Stunning pearl veil shot of wedding couple during sunset in Minneapolis

If you’re a future bride looking for the perfect wedding venue to have your special day at – look no further! Ahavah Cottage is a cozy, modern wedding venue located only an hour from the Twin Cities in Elysian, Minnesota! Enjoy this overview of an Ahavah Cottage Wedding by Heidi Straus Photography.

Ahavah Cottage Wedding Venue

Wedding Party in Black and White at the Ahavah Cottage Wedding Venue in Minnesota

If you’re struggling to find a beautiful, luxurious wedding venue for your special day in Minnesota- look no further! These are my absolute top 10 favorite luxurious wedding venues in Minnesota!

Top 10 Stunning Wedding Venues in Minnesota 2024

Italy Destination Wedding

If you’re considering getting married at the Oak Glen Golf Club in Stillwater, look no further! This venue is absolutely beautiful! I had the honor of photographing Jordan and Isabella’s wedding there and I cannot recommend this place enough!

Oak Glen Golf Club Wedding in Stillwater

Beautiful outdoor summer wedding ceremony in Stillwater, Minnesota between two willow trees with a lake in the background