Golden Hour Photos Are a Must: Capture the Dreamiest Wedding Shots!
Listen up, bride-to-be! If you’re planning your wedding and haven’t thought about golden hour photos yet—girl, we need to talk! That magical time just before sunset is basically Mother Nature’s way of giving you a professional filter for free. And trust me, you want those golden, glowing, straight-out-of-a-fairy-tale wedding shots!
Why Golden Hour? Golden hour is that short-but-sweet time when the sun kisses the horizon, casting a warm, soft glow on everything—your dress, your bouquet, and, of course, your new spouse! No harsh shadows, no squinty eyes, just pure, dreamy perfection.
Now, imagine this: you, standing lakeside, the water reflecting those perfect pinks, purples, and golds from the sky. The towering trees surrounding your romantic wedding venue in Brainerd, Minnesota, add a touch of natural elegance. The vibe? Total fairytale!



The Perfect Lakeside Backdrop Our lakeside ceremony site is basically golden hour’s BFF. The water catches every bit of that sunset magic, creating a soft, glowy, almost unreal background for your wedding photos. Whether you’re sharing a quiet, just-married moment or popping some bubbly with your bridal party, golden hour will make every shot Pinterest-worthy.
Timing is Everything! To nail those golden hour shots, work with your photographer to plan around sunset. Depending on the season, this could be right after your ceremony or during cocktail hour. Either way, you’ll want to sneak away for just 15–20 minutes to capture the most romantic photos of your life. (Bonus: It’s also the perfect time to soak in the “OMG, we just got married!” moment.)
Pro Tip: Bring a cozy wrap or a stylish shawl if you’re having a fall or early spring wedding—it can get a little chilly, but trust me, it’s so worth it!
So, gorgeous, if you’re tying the knot at our romantic wedding venue in Brainerd, Minnesota, make sure golden hour photos are at the top of your must-have list. You’ll thank yourself when you’re swooning over your wedding album for years to come. Now, go grab that fiancé of yours and start practicing your best “golden hour glow” poses!


P.S. Need help with hair and makeup that stays flawless through golden hour? We’ve got you covered!
If you’re looking for an affordable wedding venue in Minnesota that offers a mix of natural beauty, charm, and personalized service, The Emerald Cottage is the perfect place to say “I do.” Visit The Emerald Cottage’s website to learn more about their budget-friendly packages and availability.