Miranda & Mark are high school sweethearts, together now for nearly nine years. They fought hard for love while Mark was deployed overseas. During that time, Miranda gave birth to the first of their two children, and I have so much respect for their story and how distance has shaped & strengthened their relationship. Miranda is a crazy-talented photographer and also runs a shop selling her all-natural lip balms (which I’m addicted to!). Mark is a musician & builder of beautiful things, like their wooden wedding altar, which you’ll see in this post. It’s breathtaking!

On a misty August day, they said “I do” in Hartley Nature Center, tucked amid tall pines. Their outdoor Duluth wedding felt relaxed & dreamy, with guests rubbing elbows on rough-hewn benches layered with wool Pendleton blankets. When we first met over coffee, Miranda told me, “I’m not afraid to get my wedding dress a little dirty,” which always makes me do a happy dance! Although we kept the mud to a minimum, we still ventured off the beaten path, and the gorgeous adventure that unfolded? Well, see for yourself. It was a dream!

          

Made possible by this incredible team of vendors:

Ceremony Location: Hartley Nature Center // Reception Location: Clearwater Event Center // Catering: Red Swan Catering // Floral Design: DIY  // Bridesmaid Dresses: Mossimo for Target, hand-dyed by the bride //  Groomsmen Attire: Arthur’s Formal Wear//  Hair Styling & Makeup: DIY