Claudia and Mark’s wedding at the Edward Anne Estate in Bavaria Downs, Minnesota, was the perfect blend of elegance, intimacy, and unexpected joy. Set on a flawless November day with 55-degree weather and a clear, blue sky, their celebration brought together 120 of their closest friends and family for an unforgettable experience.


The day began with an emotional and private moment between Claudia and Mark. Tucked away, they shared their first look—a moment filled with laughter, happy tears, and a deep connection only they could share. Claudia, radiant in her sleek strapless gown, and Mark, dapper in his timeless black tuxedo, exchanged heartfelt vows, just the two of them. This private exchange allowed them to soak in the significance of the day before the festivities unfolded.

White pointed-toe bridal heels displayed on green foliage.
A white wedding dress hanging on a decorative hanger in front of sunny windows.
Stone pillars and rustic architecture details of an elegant wedding venue.
Black and white photo of someone relaxing by a stone fireplace.
Close-up black and white photo of someone applying lipstick.
Library study with leather chair and wooden bookshelves.
Elegant strapless wedding dress being buttoned up in a sunlit room during bridal preparations.
Black and white artistic wedding dress photo framed through an ornate doorway.
Emotional moment captured in black and white as bride dabs tears during wedding preparations.
Intimate black and white photograph of wedding dress preparations by window light.
Dramatic silhouette of bridal preparation against large industrial windows with sunlight streaming in.
Stunning fitted wedding dress with long train photographed against bright window and stone floor.
Close-up detail of white bridal bouquet and strapless wedding gown neckline.
Elegant bride in fitted white dress holding classic white rose bouquet against neutral wall.
Moody bridal portrait in vintage room with ornate chaise lounge and streaming window light.
Dramatic cathedral veil trailing behind wedding dress on ornate balcony overlooking landscape.
A couple shares their first look moment outside a white building with brick patio and French windows.
A romantic moment between newlyweds by a white window as her long train flows on brick pavement.
A sweet moment shared between a couple against a white wall during their wedding.
A tender wedding moment captured outside a building with white French windows.

Guests gathered in the estate’s opulent ballroom for the ceremony, expecting a traditional exchange of vows. But Claudia and Mark had a surprise in store—they revealed that they had actually been married for over a year! In September of 2023, they had a private ceremony back home in Hawaii, choosing to keep their union a secret until this special celebration.

The announcement was met with a wave of applause, laughter, and a few happy tears from their loved ones. This heartfelt revelation made the ceremony even more meaningful, as it marked not just the start of their journey together, but the culmination of a beautiful year of marriage.

With the surprise revealed, the evening transitioned into a candlelit dinner that was nothing short of magical. The Edward Anne Estate’s elegant interior was brought to life by soft candlelight and thoughtfully designed tablescapes. Guests enjoyed a delicious meal while sharing stories, laughter, and love with Claudia and Mark.

The bridal party, a lively and supportive group of friends, brought an extra layer of energy and joy to the day, ensuring that every moment was filled with celebration.

A formal wedding party of groomsmen in black suits pose outside a stucco building.
Formal wedding party portrait with bridesmaids in sage green dresses and groomsmen in black suits.
A wedding party gathers around an elegant fountain in a manicured garden setting.
Wedding party gathering outdoors for a celebratory group photo.
An elegant wedding ceremony space with white chairs and a crystal chandelier.
A wedding welcome sign display with white floral arrangements and an ornate gold mirror.
A modern wedding venue with vaulted ceilings, chandeliers and large windows overlooking scenic views.
Wedding ceremony processional in an elegant ballroom with crystal chandeliers and scattered rose petals.
Black and white photo of wedding guests seated in elegant chairs during an indoor ceremony.
A wedding ceremony processional walking down the aisle in an elegant ballroom with chandeliers.
A couple shares their first dance at a wedding reception under an ornate chandelier and detailed ceiling.
Wedding ceremony in a modern chapel with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking scenic views.
Romantic dip kiss between newlyweds in front of floor-to-ceiling windows with candlelit decor.
Black and white image of a messy wedding reception table with used plates and leftover food.

Every detail of the day reflected Claudia and Mark’s unique story and elegant style. From the bride’s stunning white heels, photographed against a lush green backdrop, to the breathtaking setting of the estate’s grounds, the day was a perfect reflection of the couple’s personality and their love for one another.

After dinner, the festivities continued with dancing and toasts that filled the estate with warmth and laughter. It was clear that Claudia and Mark’s love had brought everyone together in a way that felt authentic and unforgettable.

Intimate moment between newlyweds sharing dessert outside venue at dusk.
Romantic moment between couple in vintage library setting with wooden built-ins.
Tender moment between couple in wedding attire on brick patio.
Elegant couple poses in library setting with leather chairs and stone fireplace.
A romantic close-up of newlyweds sharing an intimate moment outdoors during golden hour.
Bride and groom share a passionate kiss under her flowing veil at their outdoor wedding.
Bride and groom posing separately in rustic field with wedding venue in background at sunset.
Close-up detail shot of bride's white strapless wedding dress and groom's formal attire.
Black and white photo of newlyweds walking together through field with bouquet.
Tender moment between newlyweds as they embrace under a flowing white veil.
Wedding couple sitting on rustic bench at sunset with gazebo in background.
Elegant wedding reception venue with crystal chandeliers and white table settings at dusk.
Reception hall with crystal chandeliers and panoramic windows overlooking sunset views.
White wedding cake and floral centerpiece display with glowing candles in elegant reception setting.
First dance at wedding reception with couple dancing in elegant ballroom.