Summer Engagement Session at the MN Landscape Arboretum

This summer, I had the absolute pleasure of photographing an engagement session for R+B at the stunning Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. The session was extra special because this lovely duo is also getting married at the Arboretum! It made the day even more meaningful, knowing we were capturing their love story in the same location where they’ll soon exchange rings.

One of the perks of booking your wedding at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum is that you can hold your engagement session there without any additional photography fees—a great bonus considering how breathtaking this place is. With over 1,200 acres of gardens, prairies, and woodlands, the Arboretum is a photographer’s dream and offers endless opportunities for capturing beautiful, natural moments.

Because the Arboretum is so expansive, planning ahead is key to making the most of your time there. The couple and I mapped out a few areas we wanted to visit in advance. We started in the Fisher Japanese Garden — one of the lush, formal gardens bursting with vibrant summer blooms. The rich colors were the perfect backdrop for showcasing the couple’s vibrant personalities and cultures coming together. The koi are also so beautiful and curious.

Next, we wandered along the scenic paths, stopping at the more secluded spots tucked into the surrounding greenery. These quiet moments allowed the couple to relax, laugh, and simply enjoy being in the moment together. With such a vast and dynamic space, I always recommend focusing on a few key locations to avoid feeling rushed. The Arboretum has so much to offer, but it’s all about finding the spots that resonate most with you as a couple.

One of my favorite things about this session was how the Arboretum itself seemed to echo the couple’s love story. Its diverse landscapes reflected their unique backgrounds and shared journey in such a natural, beautiful way. Plus, the golden light at the end of the day lit up the gardens and trees like something out of a storybook, making for truly magical portraits.

If you’re planning your engagement session or wedding at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, my biggest tip is to take your time. With so much to explore, it’s worth setting aside a couple of hours to enjoy the experience. Whether you’re wandering the rolling meadows, soaking in the beauty of the formal gardens, or simply walking hand-in-hand down a quiet, tree-lined path, the Arboretum offers endless possibilities to create unforgettable moments.

I can’t wait to celebrate with this couple again on their wedding day in this incredible setting. If their engagement session is any indication, their big day will be just as stunning, filled with love, joy, and the natural beauty of the Arboretum.