An Intimate Fall Wedding at The Starling House | Alexandria MN Wedding Photographer

Kiera Paige
6 days ago
3 min read

By Kiera Paige Photography - Minnesota Wedding Photographer

Close-up of wedding dress hanging in The Staling House

A Heartfelt Fall Wedding at The Starling House

As an Alexandria MN wedding photographer, I’m always drawn to weddings that feel deeply personal; the kind of weddings where every face is familiar, every connection is real, and every moment unfolds with this warm, effortless energy.

Lindsey and Drew’s wedding at The Starling House and Copper Trail Brewing was exactly that kind of day. With about 100 loved ones gathered, the whole celebration felt intimate, relaxed, and rooted in family history and lifelong friendships. Their wedding day colors — navy blue, eucalyptus, sage green, rust, terracotta, blush, and cream — created a beautiful, earthy palette that felt perfect for an early fall wedding in Alexandria.

Bride getting ready inside The Starling House bridal suite

Getting Ready at The Starling House

Both the ceremony and getting-ready morning took place at The Starling House, a venue full of character and charm. The bridal suite offered soft light, cozy textures, and a quiet space for those first emotional moments of the day.

Lindsey spent her morning surrounded by family while Hair & Makeup by Frills worked their artistry. The room felt calm and meaningful, with little pockets of laughter and quiet anticipation.

We used not only the main property, but also the backyard (complete with shoreline access) which gave us extra variety and natural backdrops for details and portraits.

Emotional first look outside The Starling House

A Sweet First Look on the Grounds

Lindsey and Drew chose to share a first look before the ceremony, and it couldn’t have been a more tender moment. The soft breeze moved through the trees while they saw each other fully dressed for the first time. It was a quiet bubble of emotion before the rest of the day began.

Because Lindsey and Drew did not have a formal wedding party, the focus stayed completely on the two of them, their story, and the people who truly shaped their lives.

Couple's first kiss surrounded by fall wedding ceremony setup outdoors in Alexandria MN

A Meaningful Outdoor Ceremony

Their outdoor ceremony began at 4:30pm under the soft fall light. Guests arrived in dressy-casual attire, filling the setting with an easy warmth and familiarity. With no strict restrictions on photography and additional shoreline access available, we had the freedom to capture the ceremony from multiple angles. The venue was perfect for preserving every expression, hand squeeze, and emotional exchange.

Every guest felt like an important piece of their story, especially given how intertwined both families and lifelong friendships were. Many guests had known Lindsey or Drew for decades. From childhood friends (Corey, Nate, Adam, Vince, Dave), to former nanny families, to the tight-knit relatives on both sides.

Bride and groom portrait inside of The Starling House

Family Portraits with Intention

Family is the heart of Lindsey and Drew’s relationship, and they took great care to honor the many layers of connection within their blended families.

Their families came together beautifully for the photos and celebrated wholeheartedly.

A Cozy, Joyful Reception at Copper Trail Brewing

After the ceremony, guests headed to Copper Trail Brewing for a laid-back, welcoming reception that fit Lindsey and Drew perfectly.

Dinner was served buffet-style by Smokin’ Brews and Ques, followed by heartfelt speeches, emotional dances, and lots of laughter shared across long tables.

Dessert came from Nothing Bundt Cakes, and their formal cake cutting became a crowd favorite moment — the perfect mix of sentiment and celebration.

Bride and groom grand exit surrounded by family at Copper Trail Brewing.

Why This Wedding Felt So Special

Some weddings stand out because of the decor. Some stand out for the size, or the scale, or the party.

This one stood out because of the people. Because of the history. Because of the softness in the way Lindsey and Drew cared for each other. And because everyone in attendance was someone they couldn’t do life without.

It was a beautiful reminder of how powerful simple, meaningful weddings can be, especially in a place as charming and sentimental as Alexandria, Minnesota.

If You’re Searching for an Alexandria MN Wedding Photographer

Capturing love stories like Lindsey and Drew’s is truly what lights me up. If you’re planning a wedding at The Starling House, Copper Trail Brewing, or anywhere in the Alexandria area, I’d love to create something heartfelt and timeless for you too.

View more weddings or inquire here!