October 25th, 2025 was one of those Minnesota fall days that had a little bit of everything, cool air, a few raindrops, the kind of golden leaves that make your jaw drop, and a whole lot of joy. Ryan and Morgan’s wedding day was full of laughter, sweet moments, and a calm presence that carried through every part of the day. It was the kind of celebration that reminds you what wedding days are really about, being surrounded by your favorite people, soaking in the moments that matter, and celebrating a love that’s steady and real.
A Peaceful Start to the Morning
We started the morning at the hotel where the girls were getting ready. There was a calm excitement in the air — that soft kind of energy that always fills the room before the celebrations begin. Bridesmaids were finishing hair and makeup and chatting with each other. The morning moved along with laughter and smiles as anticipation built for everything to come. Once everyone was ready, we made our way to The Refuge where Morgan would get into her gown and the rest of the day would unfold.
Getting Ready at The Refuge
Inside The Refuge, the getting-ready space was full of warmth and love. Morgan’s mom and sister helped her into her dress, carefully fastening each button and smoothing every layer until everything looked perfect. The emotion in the room was so tender — a mix of pride, joy, and love. When Morgan got to see herself fully ready, the room fell quiet for just a moment. Then, her bridesmaids saw her for the first time and their reactions said it all. Smiles, cheers, and lots of “you look amazing!” filled the air. Outside, the fall colors were absolutely stunning. Even though the day was a bit chilly and rainy, the trees glowed in shades of orange, red, and gold. Ryan and his groomsmen had arrived, full of energy and ready for the day ahead.
A Sweet First Look
It was time for Morgan and Ryan’s first look — one of the sweetest moments of the day. Right out front of the Refuge surrounded by beautiful fall color. As Ryan turned around, his whole face lit up. The joy and emotion between them were so genuine, you could feel it. They laughed, hugged, and took a few deep breaths together before we started portraits. Even though the weather kept us on our toes, everyone was such a good sport. The bridal party joined us outside for photos, bringing their best energy and plenty of laughter. It made for the most beautiful, joy-filled portraits surrounded by all that gorgeous fall color.
Family and Quiet Moments Before the Ceremony
After a round of portraits with the bridal party, we headed to the church for family photos and a little downtime before the ceremony. Ryan and Morgan took a quiet moment together to just breathe and soak it all in — a rare pause in an otherwise fast-paced day. Inside, guests began to fill the space. There was a buzz of excitement and the sound of soft music as everyone waited for the ceremony to begin.
A Beautiful Church Ceremony
The ceremony was held in a beautiful church surrounded by family and friends. As the music started, Morgan walked down the aisle, glowing and emotional. Ryan’s eyes brightened and a huge smile came across his face the moment he saw her. Their Catholic Mass ceremony was heartfelt and sacred. They exchanged vows and rings, said “I do,” and were officially pronounced husband and wife. The smiles on their faces were everything.
When they walked back down the aisle together as Mr. and Mrs. Hunter for the very first time, the room filled with cheers and applause. It was such a joyful moment to witness.
Celebrating on the Bus
After the ceremony, Ryan and Morgan greeted guests, exchanged hugs, and shared lots of smiles before heading out with their bridal party. The group hopped on the bus and the celebrations kicked off instantly. Music, laughter, and clinking glasses filled the ride.
A Gorgeous Reception at The Refuge
Back at The Refuge, the reception space looked incredible. Guests mingled, grabbed drinks, and admired all of the beautiful decor. Every detail reflected Ryan and Morgan’s personalities — cozy, elegant, and full of heart.
The florals were stunning and the candles gave the space a warm, inviting glow. Guests enjoyed appetizers and conversation as the sun began to set outside. When the bus arrived, we took Ryan and Morgan for one last round of portraits before the night officially began. The rain had cleared and the sun peeked through just enough to give us a golden glow. The timing couldn’t have been more perfect.
Private Vows at Sunset
As the sky turned to soft shades of orange, Ryan and Morgan shared their private vows — something they had planned to do earlier but hadn’t had time for. This moment was quiet, emotional, and absolutely beautiful.
They stood together as the sun disappeared behind the trees, reading the words they had written just for each other. It was peaceful, heartfelt, and such a meaningful pause in the midst of the day.
Dinner, Toasts, and Laughter
Back inside, the reception was ready to begin. Ryan and Morgan entered to cheers and laughter, but they added their own unique twist — they introduced their bridal party by sharing a little story or fun memory about each person. It was such a thoughtful and personal touch. After a blessing, dinner was served and guests enjoyed delicious food surrounded by good company. The room was filled with chatter and laughter as everyone celebrated the new couple. Then it was time for speeches. Ryan’s brother Max, his best man, started things off with the perfect mix of humor and heartfelt words. He shared stories of their childhood, their bond as brothers, and his love for Ryan and Morgan as a couple. Next, Morgan’s sister Mollie, who was her maid of honor, gave a beautiful speech. She talked about growing up together, their close relationship, and how happy she is to see her sister with someone who loves her so deeply. Parents also shared a few words, expressing love and gratitude for everyone who came to celebrate. Finally, Ryan and Morgan took a moment to thank their guests — their words were genuine and full of appreciation.
First Dances and Family Moments
After dinner, the room was transformed for dancing. Ryan and Morgan shared their first dance as husband and wife — a moment full of emotion, connection, and joy. Then, Morgan shared a dance with her mom, Mary. It was such a special and meaningful moment between the two of them, full of smiles and a few happy tears. Even though Morgan’s dad wasn’t there physically, his presence was felt all throughout the day in quiet, powerful ways.
Ryan and his mom shared a sweet dance next, both smiling as they talked and laughed through the moment. It was such a warm and genuine moment between mother and son.
Dancing the Night Away
Once the formal dances wrapped up, the dance floor opened and everyone jumped in. Guests packed the floor right away, showing off their best moves, laughing, and celebrating the night away. The music kept everyone moving, and the atmosphere was filled with love and energy. Kids twirled, grandparents clapped along, and friends sang their favorite songs together. Everywhere you looked, people were smiling and connecting.
Throughout the night, we captured all the little in-between moments — guests raising a toast, hugs between old friends, and quiet moments where Ryan and Morgan would catch each other’s eyes and smile.
The Perfect Ending
Ryan and Morgan’s wedding day was such a reflection of who they are — full of joy, kindness, and heart. Even with the rain and chilly fall air, nothing could take away from the love that surrounded them. Every detail, every laugh, every quiet moment came together to tell such a beautiful story. It was such a joy to capture their day and preserve all those moments that made it so meaningful. To Ryan and Morgan — thank you for letting me be part of your wedding day. Your love for each other shines so brightly, and it was an absolute honor to capture the start of your forever.