Mr. and Mrs. Toivonen - 7.22.23 — Chelsea May Photography

This past weekend I made the 4-hour trek to Duluth to shoot the wedding of Sarah and Cale at Buffalo House.

I got to hear lots of fun stories about their relationship which started 16 (!) years ago. Apparently it was one of those “it’s about dang time” weddings.

Once again, I was blessed with a beautiful dress train to photograph (seriously though… the trains this year have been AMAZING) as well as some other great details. My favorite was the charm she included on her bouquet to honor her late uncle, with whom she was very close. I also adored their gorgeous color palette of mint green and shades of orange/cream. Can we also appreciate those adorable personalized shoes and the initials of “C” and “S” on the suspenders of the guys?

They had the most magical day surrounded by their loved ones, including one heck of a wedding party. They all definitely know how to have a good time! You could just feel the love and closeness from everyone in attendance. They were all thrilled to FINALLY be celebrating this special day!

Cale shared that he realized she was the one in “no single time, but more a series of moments”. He remarked about her kindness and how she is a wonderful listener. He loves how much she loves animals and that she “lights up every time she sees a little kitten.” He commented that they love to pick on one another and joke around… it’s basically their love language. “The way she is so dedicated to her family was always nice to see… Its really just all the little things that people take for granted that showed me she was the one.” Despite admitting he isn’t the greatest cook, he also says he truly enjoys cooking together.

Similar to Cale’s sentiments, Sarah also felt there wasn’t one specific moment she fell in love. She has always known she loves him and that she cannot live without him, but the deal was definitely sealed when he showed nothing but patience when she moved in with her grandmother so that she didn’t have to live in a nursing home. “We really didn’t have much of a life together then for 2 years while I took care of my grandmother. Cale was very patient and I will forever be so thankful for that.” She loves that he can find the positive in almost any situation and particularly adores the specific laugh/smile that occurs when he’s being goofy.

I love that they included a live band to the reception. It really added to the vibe and everyone really enjoyed the cover songs they played! We concluded our night with a sparkler sendoff and I just have to say… this group of guests was probably the most cooperative that I’ve ever had for a sendoff! They did a fantastic job listening to directions and lighting their sparklers quickly. It went off without a hitch!