A Rustic, Romantic Wedding at Minnetonka Orchards in Minnetrista, Minnesota

Lauren Huisinga (26 and a PR account executive) and Paul Fredin's (27 and a business analyst) rustic-chic celebration looked to the setting (an orchard) and the season (fall) for inspiration. Splashes of burgundy, blush and gold added even more autumnal flair. “We definitely took cues from the orchard, but mostly, Paul and I threw everything we liked into the idea jar and started piecing together a theme that just felt right for us,” Lauren says. “I wanted everything to be authentic and descriptive of our relationship and life together.”

Brass lanterns and eucalyptus garlands decorated the reception, while the bridesmaids accessorized on-theme, too. They wore wine velvet dresses and flower crowns and carried glass lanterns rather than bouquets. A bluegrass band jammed during cocktail hour as guests played lawn games, snacked on local popcorn and sipped lemonade and fresh cider made on-site. Instant cameras were also on hand for friends and family to snap their own pictures. The images then created a visual guest book. "The vibe was that of a fancy fall picnic,” Lauren says. A DIY pegboard marking the cake table showcased a famous line from The Princess Bride, “That Dweam Within a Dweam." “The board is now in storage, but I have high hopes we’ll bust it out again soon,” Lauren says