First love, last love.
That phrase showed up again and again throughout Reagan and Jon’s wedding day. They met young, grew up, lived a little, and still found their way back to each other. That history shaped everything about how the day felt.

Why Linden Hills is a Fav Wedding Venue of Mine

Linden Hills Historic Estate is made for couples who want their wedding to feel like a weekend hang. You can stay on-site with your favorite people, get ready in vintage rooms that actually have personality, and have your ceremony down by the river. And it’s about an hour north of the Twin Cities.

As a hybrid film wedding photographer, I’m especially drawn to places like this. I especially love the intricate wood detailing, layered textures, and lush outdoor spaces. Throughout the day, the venue gave us plenty of space to let things unfold naturally, both inside and out. The gardens were perfect for portraits and the variety of spaces inside the house kept everything visually interesting.

Like most historic properties, Linden Hills comes with a few quirks. The exterior stairs at the back of the Musser house, which lead toward the reception tent, are steep and uneven. They’re typically reserved for the couple and vendors, but they require attention as we had a few close falls throughout the day.

First Look Under the Iconic Musser Music Room Arch

One of the most iconic spaces at Linden Hills is the Musser Grand Music Room. Generations of couples have stood beneath its arch on their wedding day, and that sense of history still lingers. Since sound carries easily throughout the house, we had friends and family step into the next room so Reagan and Jon could experience their first look alongside their chosen playlist of music.

Meaningful Ceremony Entrance by Vintage Car

Reagan’s ceremony entrance became one of the most meaningful moments of the day. She arrived in her late grandmother’s vintage car, driven by her grandfather. Because the estate has a road that loops around the property, the car pulled directly up to the ceremony space. 

After the ceremony, Reagan and Jon drove off together with a just married sign trailing behind them. It was a truly cinematic moment driving off as newlyweds.

A Reception Full of Custom Details…like signing a fresh pressed vinyl

The reception took place outdoors under a tent alongside the Mississippi, and one of my favorite details was their custom-pressed vinyl record featuring their wedding day playlist of favorite music. A friend designed the sleeve using photos from our engagement session–which we shot at a local vinyl shop. It was so cool to see it used as a guest book!

As the night went on, more of those personal touches showed up. Custom matchboxes printed with first love, last love sat on the tables. Friends brought champagne just for popping, which helped set the fun tone as the night progressed. Gold sparklers came out on the dance floor, followed by fun sunglasses that made their way around. It was main character party energy.

After-Dark Wedding Portraits

One of my favorite parts of the night happened after dark. Reagan went inside for a full outfit change before the dance floor, and before she slipped into her short, fun dress, we moved quickly through the house for late-night couples portraits. The energy was fast and playful, a little sexy, a lotta fun.

What a Wedding at Linden Hills Really Looks Like

They wanted their wedding documented with an artistic edge, but always rooted in what was actually happening. My team and I were there for about twelve hours of all-day coverage and shooting hybrid film and digital photography. 

Vendor Team:

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Looking For a Documentary Wedding Photographer?

Hey, I’m Bri—I’m based in Minnesota and always down to travel for love stories that deserve to be told with unique flare. My work is influenced by editorial storytelling, candid moments, and good old fashioned film.

If that’s your vibe and you’re dreaming up something meaningful, I’d love to hear all about it. Check out more about my wedding photography services, or come hang out with me over on Instagram.

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