This vintage castle wedding at the Van Dusen Mansion in Minneapolis was the perfect mix of nostalgic and modern energy. As a film wedding photographer, I was seriously stoked. If you’re dreaming of a wedding rich with vintage film charm, candid moments, and an editorial edge—this one’s for you.
A Minneapolis venue with seriously vintage aesthetics
The Van Dusen Mansion is one of those Minneapolis venues that feels like a European castle dropped in the middle of the city. Built in 1892, it’s got serious character: historic pink Sioux quartzite stone, arched doorways, ornate woodwork, and endless rooms full of warm texture and vintage detail. (Yeaa it was a whole vibe.) And for an early April wedding in Minnesota, we lucked out with soft sunshine and a warm breeze.
As a Minnesota wedding photographer who shoots 35mm film, Polaroids, and digital photography, this day lit me up. My approach is candid but my work lives at the intersection of nostalgic and editorial. I’m always aiming for something timeless that still feels alive. I hope you feel that as you explore their wedding gallery.
One of my favorite moments? The late night desert ice cream cart. They brought in Nelson’s Ice Cream, which if you’re from Minnesota, you already know is a big deal. I ended the night with the groom’s go-to combo: Peppermint Bon Bon and Pirate’s Booty. (Honestly I’m kinda day dreaming of Nelson’s Ice Cream now).
Their real 12 hour wedding timeline example
We built their wedding timeline around a full 12-hour day, and that extra time made a huge difference. When you see how a full day can unfold, it helps puts time uncertainty into perspective.
Figuring out how much coverage you’ll need can be tricky. But from what I’ve seen, couples are almost always grateful they booked more time as it allows the day to unfold naturally, without rushing through the moments that matter. So I’m sharing their exact timeline as an example, in case it helps as you start planning your own.
Hybrid Digital, 35mm Film, & Polaroid Wedding Gallery
Vendor Team:
Venue: The Van Dusen Mansion by Bellagalla
Photography: Brianna Kirk Photo & Film
Super 8 Videography: Brianna Kirk Photo & Film
Day of Coordinator: Rebecca Lian, Bellagala
Catering: Mintahoe Catering
Florals: Hana Chughtai, Bellagalla
DJ: Jocelyn Alberts, Bellagalla
Dessert: Nelson’s Ice Cream
Looking For a Documentary Wedding Film 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.
