Small Destination Wedding in Crosslake Minnesota • Xsperience Photography

Sarah and Kevin have friends and family located all around Country, so they opted for a small destination wedding in Crosslake, Minnesota. Crosslake is located Northeast of the Brainerd Lakes area and is one of Minnesota’s prime summer getaway destinations!

What was the best part of your intimate wedding?

Seeing all the months of planning come together, and our friends and family all there to celebrate Kevin and I was probably the best feeling of the day. It really hits you when you are sitting at the head table. We looked out into the room full of all our loved ones, knowing they were there because we met one another. It’s a very surreal moment that echoed the feelings of the whole day. Kevin expressed the same feeling as he watched everyone come down the aisle. He felt overwhelmed knowing how much it meant to both of us that everyone took time out of their busy lives to be there just for us.

Why did you choose Manhattan Beach Lodge for your small Minnesota Destination Wedding?

When we were trying to think of a venue, we knew we wanted something that was close to home for our friends and family in the area, but also a fun getaway for all the family we had coming from out of state. We also really loved the fact that everything was all in the same place. We didn’t have to worry about traveling between the hotel and venue, and the food was incredible! Plus, what is better than a lake sunset in Minnesota? Our overall vibe was destination staycation, and Manhattan Beach Lodge checked all the boxes.

What was your goal for the Wedding day?

Our goal for the wedding was a staycation to bring all of our closest friends and family together for an epic weekend of good food, drinks and fun memories to always remember. Mission accomplished!

Any tips or advice for engaged couples planning a small destination wedding?

Pick your top three priorities for the day and focus on those. For us it was an “all-inclusive” venue, food and photography. If you try to put your energy into too much, you end up burning through your budget and your sanity too quickly. If you really focus on your top priorities, the rest falls into place and your guests will enjoy your favorite things with you because it’s important to you. Don’t sweat the small details. Stay focused on what you want, not what you think everyone else wants. It’s your day, and the things that stand out should be the things you care about!

Lastly, remember the pictures are the thing you will treasure for years to come. They will capture everything, even the things you missed with your own eyes. Hire a photographer you enjoy hanging out with because you spend a big chunk of your time with them… so pick someone fun… like Trisha!
Sarah & Kevin