Amy K Photography
Wedding Photos at
Gathered Oaks in
Alexandria
Gathered Oaks is a cheerful, modern barn and grounds nestled among the fields and lakes of Alexandria, MN. With separate, unique getting ready spaces conveniently located on-site, indoor and outdoor ceremony spaces, a dedicated cocktail hour location, outdoor patio, a hidden pond, and lodging, it is a wedding venue that truly has it all. Couples love the wide open backyard surrounded by leafy trees, meticulously-kept landscaping, and the golden sunset light that pours into the reception space in the evening.
Fast facts
Best lighting and portrait spots:
- For natural greenery, the side and backyard spaces offer well-maintained lawn and tree lines
- For settings featuring modern elegance, both sides of the main barn provide stunning backdrops
- For soft, golden, sunset lighting, head to the backyard and private dock
Rain plan options: The reception space doubles as an indoor ceremony location when needed.
Parking and access: There is a parking lot out front; the outdoor ceremony space is behind the main building and a short walk down some steps but there is a golf cart available on site for guests who would prefer a ride.
Ideal photo timeline for this venue: 10 hr example, no first look
11:00 AM - Photographer arrives to begin flat lay and detail shots
12:30 PM - First partner gets dressed, getting ready photos
1:00 PM - Second partner gets dressed, getting ready photos
2:00 PM - Individual and wedding party photos with first partner
2:30 PM - Individual and wedding party photos with second partner
3:00 PM - Hide couple (separately), photographer captures candids and details pre-ceremony
3:30 PM - Ceremony
4:00 PM - Cocktail hour, family photos
4:30 PM - Full wedding party photos
4:45 PM - Couples portraits
5:30 PM - Cocktail hour ends and guests are invited to their seats
5:45 PM - Grand entrance, dinner begins
6:45 PM - Toasts
7:00 PM - First dance, father/daughter dance, mother/son dance, other special dances
7:30 PM - Sunset portraits
9:00 PM - Photography coverage ends
What a day here looks like
Bailey and Ethan’s wedding at Gathered Oaks was the kind of day that felt easy, joyful, and full of anticipation. They spent the morning relaxing with their wedding parties, laughing and singing along to their favorite songs. Since they chose to wait until the ceremony to see each other, they snuck out separately for individual portraits but were careful to not spoil their surprise with any glimpses of each other too eary.
Their ceremony was especially meaningful with Ethan’s dad officiating. At one point he invited all the guests to gather around the couple and pray over them, creating a beautiful, intimate circle of support.
The celebration rolled right into a reception full of laughter and happy tears. Bailey’s little sisters gave toasts so heartfelt that half the room was reaching for their tissues. Then Bailey and her grandpa completely flipped the mood with a surprise choreographed dance that had everyone cracking up and cheering.
As the sun dipped low, the newlyweds snuck out for sunset photos, absolutely glowing as they took in their first quiet moments as husband and wife. The rest of the night was pure celebration, exactly the way Bailey and Ethan wanted to begin their marriage.
Tips for couples
When to schedule portraits for the best light: If you’re able to schedule portraits in later morning or early afternoon instead of right at noon, you’ll enjoy softer light for stunning images when you’re in the open spaces featured around this venue.
Where to tuck in family photos: It is best to plan family photos immediately prior to or following the ceremony, depending on your decision to have a first look or to see each other for the first time while walking own the aisle.
Quiet spots for a first look or private vows: There is a quiet space behind the back patio with a delicate background of flowers and trees that is lovely for a first look or private vows.
Mini FAQ
Do we need a permit for photos at Gathered Oaks? No permit is needed for photos at Gathered Oaks.
Where can we move if it rains? The upper level reception space has a full wall of windows that lets in fantastic light even when it’s raining. The lower patio and upper deck are both covered and can serve well as backup photo locations.
What is the best season here? Gathered Oaks is a beautiful wedding venue year-round! The barn has air conditioning for hot summer days, and heat lamps are available for those that might be a bit chillier.
Planning a wedding at Gathered Oaks?
Photos taken while associate shooting for Spindler Photo Co.