International Market Square in Minneapolis was the perfect setting for Minnesota Bride’s Best of 2023 gala with its rich history and array of spaces for mingling. The inspiration for this year's black-tie event was timeless elegance featuring a neutral palette designed by Jenna Culley Events. "For this design, I really want to take the black and white color palette and elevate it while also acknowledging that it was a Chanel-themed event," Jenna Culley of Jenna Culley Events and Linen Effects said.
The floral team comprised of Haute House Studio, La Petite Fleur, Wilderland Floral and Sadie's Floral adorned tables with classic white roses as signage from Hunt Wright Design Co. effortlessly played into the theme. For a touch of luxe and a nod to Chanel, Linen Effects utilized high-end fabric linens with pattern or texture. "We also wanted to subtly include elements that felt very Chanel without being obvious; things like the podium backdrop having the classic Chanel purse quilted look or some of the floral designs being made within small purses, for example," Jenna said.
Attendees were welcomed by lighted arbors by Star Lux as small bites from D'Amico Catering, non-alcoholic beverages from Dry Wit and the best vino from Carlos Creek Winery were passed out. A grand magazine installation created by Girl Friday Creative was a showstopper with all of Minnesota Bride's fabulous covers over the past 30 years on one side and the upcoming cover on the other side. As guests mixed and mingled, music from Generation Now DJs played while chandeliers from Phos created the most enchanting ambience and set a cinematic tone for the upcoming awards.
Owner and CEO Sonja Babich started off the awards ceremony with an inspiring speech. Then Publisher Brooke Beise gave opening remarks before Editor in Chief Megan White presented the Editor's Choice awards honoring the best trends in design and photography from the wedding season. Finally, the Best of 2023 awards were handed out, based on votes from the public and the Minnesota wedding industry.
The wins were a catalyst for celebration as everyone gathered to the dance floor to grab a glass of bubbly from Enticing Entertainment’s impressive aerialists and enjoy desserts from Nothing Bundt Cakes and D'Amico. As a unique twist to the night, Jenna Culley and her team opted to include pink accents during the after party. "The lights around the space all turned hot pink, the desserts were rolled out on carts covered in pink floral,” Jenna said. “The vendors involved either had full outfit changes to hot pink attire or added hot pink accessories to their formal looks to add a touch of fun that could be seen all over the dance floor.”
Memories were captured by Modern Lux Photo Booth and Time Into Pixels' new audio guestbook. Guests posed in the magazine photo box created by Studios Moss was the perfect photo-op while Maria Ahrens documented the lively energy by creating a live illustration of the festivities. To wrap up the lively evening, The Silver Alchemist gave an unforgettable performance and got everyone on the dance floor. From start to finish the Minnesota. Bride Best of 2023 gala recognized and reveled in the talent and energy of the Minnesota wedding community.
Best of 2023 photo gallery captured by Yuppy Photo LLC
Opening video by Summit Hill Studios
2023 Best of Awards film by Peterson Brothers Productions
Click HERE to see the list of winners!
