Fall weddings can have unpredictable weather

Meg and Carl got so lucky with the most perfect fall weather for their wedding in Canal Park. Minnesotans know that late fall season brings unpredictable weather and even the chance of snow in the forecast. For this November wedding in Duluth, the couple cashed in all their good luck charms! Their wedding day was cool and crisp, with clouds gently covering the bright blue sky. A subtle breeze kept air flowing, but no one was ever *too* cold. I knew early on that we were going to experience the most magical sunset that evening, and I couldn’t wait to take the newlyweds out for some sunset wedding portraits.

Canal Park has the best photo ops in Duluth

Having their wedding in Canal Park meant we were only ever a few steps away from Lake Superior and other iconic Duluth scenes. Behind their wedding venue, a small blue pedestrian bridge made the perfect backdrop for the couple to share their private wedding vows. The sun reflected off the water, making for some beautiful, playful light. The bride and groom took turns reading their heartfelt vows. Holding on to each other as they shared sentimental words.

A short walk from the blue bridge overlooking Lake Superior sits a vine-covered wall. The leaves were ablaze in fall colors from red to orange to yellow green. This cozy shaded background was the perfect spot for family photos on their wedding day. The colors were so vibrant. While family members were waiting for their turn, the kids were climbing on sculptures and grandmas were cuddling babies. Everyone enjoyed spending time together and making memories even though it was a little chilly outside.

Having your wedding in Canal Park? Stop at The Lift Bridge!

If you’ve ever spent time in Canal Park, you know that the Lift Bridge is an iconic part of the city’s skyline. I wonder if the designers knew how essential this bridge would be when it comes to classic Duluth wedding photos. For Meg and Carl, the Lift Bridge played multiple roles on their wedding day. They climbed into their vintage getaway car and drove over the bridge and looped back to the venue. The couple waved at their loved ones who stood on the sidewalks cheering for them as they drove off. When the getaway car first took off, multiple tin cans were attached to the rear of the car. However, when the newlyweds returned, there was a single tin can remaining.

I climbed in the back of their vintage Chevrolet Camaro as we went in search of a sun-soaked backdrop on the other side of the Lift Bridge. We parked in the far corner of a parking lot, with a beautiful sunset over the lake. I took some editorial style wedding photos of the couple with the Camaro. It was fun to play with 35mm film photos during this time, too. We hopped over to the beachfront next. For a wedding in Canal Park, getting some quality time together on the sandy shores of Lake Superior is a must-have experience. With the perfect fall weather and the best sunset, the lake was a vibrant blue hue.

The quintessential Duluth wedding photo

In the heart of Canal Park, near the Lift Bridge, sits the popular tourist destination: the Lighthouse. Of course we had to take the newlyweds down to get the iconic dip kiss photo in front of the lighthouse. Everyone who has a wedding in Canal Park makes sure to take advantage of this picturesque scene. The sun was starting to set lower in the sky, bathing the lake and the walkways in a rosey gold hue. As we left the lighthouse, we walked under the Lift Bridge for one last photo op. Bathed in warm golden light, the married couple kissed and cheered as we made some unique portraits with the Lift Bridge as the background.

Celebrating the perfect fall wedding in Canal Park with family and friends

We all know wedding days aren’t just for stunning portraits of the newlyweds. Meg and Carl spent time getting ready with their friends and families. Everyone shed a few tears and shared in some big belly laughs. The bride is the kind of person who wears her heart on her sleeve–and it shows in every photo. From a heartfelt ceremony to a rockin’ dance floor, these two planned a meaningful event.

With the perfect fall weather for a wedding in Canal Park, the bride and groom could let go of any stress and truly be in the moment. They shared many sweet and silly moments together. One of the most tender moments was when their nieces came out of the ceremony crying because they were so happy Aunt Meg and Uncle Carl got married. After the tears were wiped, the girls gathered together for a selfie with the bride.

Sometimes, it’s easy to get swept up in the chaos and stress of wedding planning. You can never predict the weather. And something might go wrong. But at the end of the day, weddings are about saying “I do” to your best friend and celebrating with your loved ones. And maybe, just maybe, with a little bit of luck, you’ll end up with the perfect fall weather for your wedding day.

Enjoy these beautiful digital and film photos from Meg and Carl’s wedding in Canal Park.

If you liked this post, be sure to check out this cozy couples session in Canal Park as well!
Looking for some danceable wedding tunes? Find my favorite first dance song ideas on the blog!