“While dating, I encountered several individuals who weren’t ‘the one,’ and I aimed to define what ‘the one’ meant for me,” explains Daisy, who resides in Duluth, Minnesota. To do this, she crafted a list on her phone with 17 attributes she desired, such as ‘emotionally open,’ ‘leads a joyful life,’ and ‘can light a fire or change a tire.’ She met Ted in 2019, claiming she manifested him. They exchanged vows in July 2021 by Lake Superior. In this account, Daisy shares insights on Goodwill wedding decorations and a vow joke that friends advised her against…
“During the pandemic, we arranged date nights where we dressed up, prepared a lovely dinner, sipped wine, and danced in our apartment. It felt so charming. At one of those dinners, Ted proposed. We always try to make occasions special without too much fuss. Our wedding wasn’t intended to be extravagant; we wanted a celebration that was laid-back and true to our essence.”
“I realize this might sound like a nightmare to some, but we chose a wedding date just one month away and informed everyone. Then, we needed to secure a venue. Duluth is stunning in the summer, and we preferred an outdoor setting. We discovered a community center by the beach with an open slot in the afternoon. Renting it was about $125. On the day of, we took a swim in the lake and got ready in the community center. I wanted flowers in my hair, so my friend brought baby’s breath. I purchased my dress off the rack at Nordstrom and did my makeup myself.”
“During summer 2021, due to Covid travel limitations, my family and friends from Tanzania weren’t able to attend. They joined us via Skype.”
“We strolled down to the beach together, and the tall grass created an aisle.”
“We decided before the wedding to hold the ceremony with our feet in the water. It felt fitting given our affection for Lake Superior. My best friend officiated it.”
“The night before, we had a gathering for guests from out of town, and I joked about starting my vows with ‘Someday, we’re all going to die…’ Everyone thought it was a bad idea. In this picture, I’m laughing because I went along with that opener. For me, it symbolized death as a prompt to truly live. In my vows, I expressed my wish to spend my life with no one else.”
“Since it’s a public beach, when we kissed, strangers cheered and clapped along with our friends and family. It was heartwarming.”
“The community center is a government venue, so it’s not the most charming, but hosting the party outdoors helped. I visited Goodwill and found lace panels that added a more private and cozy touch, given that the field is quite spacious and adjacent to a street. An interior designer friend assisted with the setup. Another friend brought lawn games.”
“I could genuinely sense the pressure of the wedding industrial complex. We briefly collaborated with a wedding coordinator accustomed to more lavish weddings. Whenever we suggested something, they would escalate it significantly. I repeatedly thought, I don’t care about this stuff, and I’m not going to incur debt for it. We decided to part ways with them and allocate our funds towards the things that truly mattered to us. For instance, we prioritized food but weren’t concerned about it being fancy. We hired a food truck, and it was fantastic. Altogether, I believe we spent around $2,000.”
“Our friend Peter Witrak, a musician, did an amazing job as our DJ. He also played the guitar on the beach before the ceremony.”
“It felt like a backyard gathering with friends when the right song played, and everyone just got up to dance. We had the perfect wedding for us.”
Thank you so much, Daisy!
P.S. More wedding features, including four New York city hall ceremonies, and a stoop wedding in Brooklyn.
(Photos by Liz Pawlik.)
**Casual Lakeside Wedding Provides a Unique and Personal Celebration**
In the realm of saying “I do,” an increasing number of couples are opting for the tranquil beauty and relaxed atmosphere of a lakeside wedding over extravagant ballrooms and formal receptions. With nature as the backdrop and calmness in the environment, a casual lakeside wedding presents a distinctive and personal celebration that beautifully intertwines romance, simplicity, and heartfelt connection.
### The Charm of a Lakeside Venue
Lakeside weddings are growing in popularity for valid reasons. The natural beauty—gleaming waters, lush foliage, and wide-open skies—creates an idyllic setting that needs minimal adornment. Whether tucked away in a forest sanctuary or situated by a serene lake, lakeside venues offer a tranquil atmosphere that invites guests to relax and enjoy the occasion.
Couples often select lakeside sites for their meaningful symbolism as well. Water signifies life, renewal, and continuity—appropriate symbols for marriage. The gentle sound of waves and the soft rustling of foliage create a calming soundtrack for the ceremony, deepening the emotional impact of the day.
### Adopting a Laid-Back Vibe
A casual lakeside wedding centers around comfort and genuineness. Rather than strict schedules and formal attire, these celebrations focus on significant moments and personal touches. Guests might arrive in sundresses and linen shirts, enjoy lemonade and local wines, and partake in lawn games or canoeing during the festivities.
The ceremony itself is typically straightforward and sincere. Couples may exchange vows on a wooden dock, beneath a floral arch by the shoreline, or even barefoot on the beach. The emphasis is placed on the bond between the couple and their loved ones, rather than on extravagant displays.
### Small Guest Lists and Customized Elements
Lakeside weddings often feature a smaller scale, making them ideal for couples who prefer intimacy over opulence. With fewer guests, there’s a greater chance to connect with everyone, fostering a warm and inclusive environment.
This intimacy also paves the way for more personalized touches. From handmade invitations and DIY decorations to personalized playlists and locally sourced menus, every detail can mirror the couple’s unique narrative and style. Some couples even choose to include meaningful rituals, like planting a tree together or releasing floating lanterns on the water.
### Practical Aspects
While lakeside weddings come with numerous advantages, they necessitate careful planning. Weather is a crucial factor—having a contingency plan, such as a tent or nearby indoor space, is vital. Accessibility and amenities should also be assessed, particularly for elderly guests or those with mobility limitations.
Permits may be necessary for certain locations, and couples should examine local regulations regarding noise, alcohol, and fire safety. Collaborating with a wedding planner experienced in outdoor events can assist in managing these details efficiently.
### Eco-Friendly Practices
The natural environment of a lakeside wedding frequently motivates couples to embrace eco-friendly practices. Biodegradable confetti, reusable decorations, and sustainable catering options are popular selections. Some couples even organize group cleanup initiatives after the celebration, ensuring that the site remains as pristine as it was found.
### Final Thoughts
A casual lakeside wedding provides a refreshing alternative to traditional ceremonies, uniting the beauty of nature with the intimacy of a close-knit gathering. It’s a celebration that feels both enduring and personal—where love takes center stage, and the lake serves as the perfect backdrop. Whether you’re planning your own lakeside event or simply fantasizing about one, this wedding style guarantees a day filled with peace, happiness, and unforgettable moments.
