Amy K Photography
Wedding Photos at
the Minnesota Horse and Hunt Club in Prior Lake
Fast facts
Best lighting and portrait spots: The view toward the lake from the arbor, numerous wooded paths, and a lovely small open field at the edge of the forest with a charming wooden bridge that work well in a variety of lighting situations.
Rain plan options: The Grand Lodge, Grand Hall reception space and open air pavilion can be utilized on rainy days.
Parking and access: There is a parking lot out front and the ceremony space is only a short walk from the Lodge.
Ideal photo timeline for this venue: 8 hr example
1:00 PM - Photographer arrives for flat lay and detail shots, wedding party getting ready photos
2:00 PM - Couple gets dressed
2:30 PM - First look and couples’ portraits
3:30 PM - Wedding party photos
4:00 PM - Family photos
4:30 PM - Hide couple, photographer captures reception space
5:00 PM - Arbor ceremony
5:30 PM - Bridal party toast, cocktail hour begins
5:45 PM - Sunset photos
6:15 PM - Cocktail hour ends and guests are invited to their seats
6:25 PM - Grand entrance
6:30 PM - Photo/table dash, cake cutting, and blessing
6:45 PM - Dinner begins
7:30 PM - Toasts
8:15 PM - First dance, father/daughter dance, mother/son dance, other special dances
8:30 PM - Dance floor opens
9:00 PM - Photography coverage ends
The Minnesota Horse and Hunt Club is a picturesque venue tucked away in the southern Minneapolis suburbs that blends rustic and chic elements with ease and offers a space that has something for everyone. Couples love this dog-friendly Minnesota venue because the grounds have a seemingly unlimited number of incredible natural backdrops, from forest trails to lake views and because it can be easily customized to match each unique wedding vision.
What a day here looks like
Erin and Gabe’s October wedding at the Minnesota Horse and Hunt Club was one to remember, with golden leaves drifting around them and sun pouring through the trees all day. Their dog stole the show as the sweetest flower girl and kept us all laughing at her adorable antics!
The ceremony overlooking the lake had guests cozying up together under blankets and rooting for the couple as their unity candles kept blowing out in the wind; to everyone’s amusement, they recreated the moment at their head table during dinner and were much more successful.
As toasts came to an end and desserts were shared, the party drifted down to the open air pavilion for dancing, campfires, and fun for the rest of the night.
Tips for couples
When to schedule portraits for the best light: Ideally, scheduling portraits mid-morning or afternoon is best because the light isn’t as strong as it is right at noon when the sun is highest in the sky.
Where to tuck in family photos: Family photos prior to the ceremony work well if you’re planning a first look. Otherwise, family photos immediately following the ceremony will keep everyone you need nearby to quickly move through your list of desired photos.
Quiet spots for a first look or private vows: The yard surrounding the cottage and nearby forest paths are conveniently located near the getting ready spaces for a private first look and vows.
Mini FAQ
Do we need a permit for photos at the Minnesota Horse and Hunt Club? No permit is needed for photos at the Minnesota Horse and Hunt Club.
Where can we move if it rains? The Grand Lodge and Grand Hall offer larger spaces that work well with natural or artificial light (flash) for photos when it’s raining out.
What is the best season here? The Minnesota Horse and Hunt Club is beautiful year-round. Given that the primary ceremony space is outdoors, you may want to make arrangements for blankets or heaters to be available to your guests to keep them more comfortable during the winter months.
Planning a wedding at the Minnesota Horse
and Hunt Club?
Photos taken while second shooting for H Street Photography