Lake Superior Intimate Wedding | Minnesota Photographer

As a Minnesota Photographer, I love photographing a Lake Superior intimate wedding. Time slows down when you’re standing on the shoreline, looking out over the water. The quiet moments that feel bigger because there is nothing competing for attention. Phones get forgotten, and everyone is present. Chloe and Walker’s elopement on Madeline Island was exactly that. Simple. Intentional. And so true to who they are as a couple. 

These two lovebirds reached out in February of 2025 with a clear vision. They wanted a very small and private day during summer on the lake. And they hoped to see the lupines in bloom. Madeline Island checked every box, even though it was their first time visiting. I was so excited to show them around and help them experience the island in a way that felt relaxed and unhurried.

We began their day at a family friend’s cabin.

Chloe and Walker chose to exchange vows privately on the dock, just the two of them, with the lake stretching out behind them. It was quiet and calm. The kind of frozen moment that feels like it exists just for you. Chloe wore a sleek white gown with a low back and delicate lace detailing. It fit her perfectly and she looked every bit the bride. Walker paired his light gray suit with soft neutral tones for a timeless counterpart to Chloe. Everything about their outfits felt intentional, but not overdone for their quiet day together.

For their next Lake Superior intimate wedding stop, we made our way to Big Bay State Park.

After their private vows, we headed to Big Bay State Park. This part of the day felt like an adventure. We walked along the cliffs, took in the views. The shoreline here is rugged and dramatic, with layers of rock meeting the water below. It is one of those places that kinda feels like a movie! Chloe and Walker took their time. They laughed. They explored. They soaked it all in. All the while, you could feel the excitement building in the air!

Next, we made our way to Big Bay Town Park for their ceremony.

This is where they were joined by their two guests. Chloe’s sister, Hattie, and Walker’s best friend, Ethan. A small group, but a meaningful one. Ethan also happens to be engaged to Hattie, which made the day feel even more special.

Their ceremony was full of thoughtful details. They included a hand casting ritual, creating something tangible to remember the moment by. It’s always so fun when my couples include traditions in their big day, which provide a tangible keepsake to carry forward into their future homes. 

Another example of this was the wine bottle they brought along. The label featured a photo of their beloved chocolate lab, Remi. A quiet nod to someone who means so much to them, even if he could not be there in person.

When I asked Chloe and Walker to describe how they wanted to feel on their elopement day, they chose three words. Sunshine. Light. Beautiful.

And honestly, they could not have picked better ones. The weather showed up in the best way. Think: clear skies and a warm summer breeze off the lake. They eloped on a Wednesday, which meant the island was calm and nearly empty. It felt like Madeline Island was theirs for the day.

As the evening went on, we wandered the beach, letting the moment stay playful and relaxed. Chloe kicked off her shoes. Walker chased her down the shoreline as seagulls took flight around them. These are the moments that make intimate elopements so special. There’s just space to be yourself.

Madeline Island is one of those places that leaves an impression. For Chloe and Walker, it became the setting for a day they will never forget.

A Lake Superior intimate wedding built around what mattered most to them. 

Ending a Lake Superior Intimate Wedding like this, barefoot in the sand with the sun beginning to dip, felt like the perfect closing chapter to a truly beautiful day.