There’s something undeniably nostalgic about a dive bar engagement session at a place that is part of your love story.
The Nook in St.Paul is known for their juicy lucy burgers, old school bowling alley, and quirky dive bar charm. It holds the special title of being the location of Amber and Kevin’s favorite second date…the date where everything clicked and the rest became history.
So this isn’t just any dive bar—it’s their dive bar.
Let’s talk about the vibes—neon lights, quirky details, dollar bills hanging from the ceiling, a retro bowling alley, and fun signage. My favorite sign? “Ain’t no WiFi. Talk to each other and get drunk.”
The night felt more like them on a casual date than a formal photo session, which is exactly how I love to work. My documentary approach gave them prompts to spark movement, interaction, and connection. They reminisced over beer and pull tabs at the bar, signed a dollar bill with their wedding date and added it to the wall, bowled a bit, and laughed their way through it all.
As the sun began to set, we stepped outside for a quick stroll around St. Paul. The golden hour glow was the perfect way to balance the indoor dive bar vibes with a few outdoorsy golden hour portraits.
Engagement photos should feel like you, and this nontraditional bar date night session nailed it. A location so full of history and heart is the perfect setting to celebrate this new chapter.
Vintage, Eclectic Dive Bar and Bowling Engagement Gallery
featuring hybrid 35mm film + digital photography
Looking For A Minneapolis Film Engagement Photographer?
Well thanks for scrolling all the way to the bottom! My name is Brianna Kirk. I’m a hybrid film and digital engagement photographer based out of Minneapolis, Minnesota available for destination travel. If you like my style and want to chat more, contact me today or let’s connect on Instagram.
