A Magical Winter Wedding at The Depot: Emily & Chase's Unforgettable Day
As a photographer, I get the privilege of witnessing countless beautiful moments, but every once in a while, a wedding comes along that stands out for its sheer magic, elegance, and heart. Emily and Chase’s wedding at The Depot in Minneapolis was one of those rare occasions where everything came together perfectly, from the stunning venue to the personal touches that made the day so uniquely theirs.
A Picture-Perfect Venue: The Depot
The Depot in Minneapolis is a wedding photographer’s dream. Its historic charm, with soaring ceilings, elegant arches, and gorgeous exposed brick, provided the perfect backdrop for Emily and Chase’s winter wedding. The venue blends industrial elements with sophisticated beauty, making it ideal for couples who want something timeless yet modern. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, thanks to the twinkling lights, candles, and the overall cozy feel that this gorgeous space provided.
When I walked into The Depot the day of the wedding, I was immediately struck by how the space had been transformed into something magical for Emily and Chase. The ceremony was set under the grand arches, where the light from hundreds of candles bathed the couple in a soft, romantic glow. It was a truly breathtaking setting, one that felt like something straight out of a fairytale.
The Dress: Pnina Tornai Perfection
When Emily told me she had chosen a Pnina Tornai gown for her wedding day, I was beyond excited. Pnina’s designs are known for their intricate details and striking elegance, and Emily’s dress was no exception. The moment she stepped into the dress—designed to perfection with delicate lace, shimmering beading, and a figure-flattering silhouette—she absolutely radiated.
What made it even more special was the story behind it. Emily had traveled all the way to Kleinfeld’s in New York City, a legendary bridal shop that has played host to so many iconic “say yes to the dress” moments, to find the one. The experience was something Emily had dreamed of, and to see her glowing in that gown was a beautiful culmination of years of anticipation. The dress fit Emily like a glove, and it was clear that she was living her own bridal dream.
A Candlelit Ceremony and Glasses of Champagne
The ceremony itself was a beautiful blend of romance and elegance. As the guests entered, they were greeted by the soft flicker of hundreds of candles, their gentle light casting a warm glow over the space. Emily and Chase exchanged vows in front of a breathtaking display of candles, creating an intimate, serene atmosphere despite the winter chill outside.
As if that wasn’t enough, when the ceremony concluded, a thoughtful touch awaited each guest: a beautifully chilled glass of champagne. The clink of glasses and the sparkle of bubbles perfectly matched the feeling of celebration that filled the air. It was a simple yet elegant gesture that made everyone feel special, setting the tone for the festivities that followed.
An Epic Dance Floor
After the ceremony, the party moved to The Depot’s grand ballroom, where the evening truly came to life. The dance floor was packed all night long, and it’s easy to see why—Emily and Chase know how to throw a good party! The couple’s first dance was a heartwarming moment, but it was just the beginning of an epic night of dancing, laughter, and celebration. Guests couldn’t resist joining in, and, as the DJ, we kept the energy high with an incredible mix of classic hits and dance all night hits. It was a non-stop dance fest, and the joy in the room was palpable.
A Surprising Visit from Santa Claus
One of the most delightful surprises of the night was the unexpected appearance of Santa Claus. Yes, you read that right—Santa himself made a special guest appearance to surprise Emily and Chase and all their guests. Why, you ask? Because Emily is obsessed with Christmas! Santa’s visit added an extra layer of whimsy and fun to an already unforgettable evening. The look on the guests’ faces when he entered the room was priceless. And as you can imagine, the photo opportunities were endless—who wouldn’t want a picture with Santa in the middle of a wedding celebration?
It was such a special touch, perfectly reflecting the couple’s personalities and their love for the holiday season. The Christmas magic was alive and well, and it felt like the perfect tribute to the couple’s shared love of family traditions and joy.
A Day to Remember
From Emily’s breathtaking Pnina Tornai gown to the candlelit ceremony, the epic dance party, and the surprise visit from Santa, this was one of those weddings that photographers like me dream of capturing. The entire day was infused with so much love, laughter, and personal touches that made it uniquely Emily and Chase.
The Depot in Minneapolis was the perfect canvas for their celebration, and every moment was a testament to their incredible connection, their shared joy, and the beauty of this moment in their lives. I’m so grateful to have been there to capture these memories, and I know that Emily and Chase’s wedding day will be a story they’ll cherish forever.
Thank you, Emily and Chase, for letting me be a part of your magical day!
tHE dEPOT - mINNEAPOLIS
