There’s just something about a romantic Sanctuary Events Center wedding that feels like the perfect mix of classic and cool, and Rachel & Jared’s day was exactly that! Right in the heart of downtown Fargo. This space gave them the best of both worlds. A romantic ceremony spot and a lively reception space, all without having to shuttle guests from one location to another. The day had everything: a couple who’s as sweet and laid-back as they come, the perfect late-summer weather. And some seriously beautiful portraits at their old college stomping grounds. From start to finish, it was the kind of wedding that just felt joyful, natural, and so authentically them!

Getting Ready at Sanctuary Events Center

Rachel’s morning started in the bright, cozy bridal suite surrounded by her best girls, a mix of laughter, mimosas, and those happy pre-wedding jitters you can feel in the air. Her dress, a fitted lace gown with intricate detailing and a touch of sparkle, hung on display like it was waiting for its moment to shine. She slipped into it with the help of her bridesmaids. It was such an effortless, joy-filled start to a day they’d remember forever.

First Look at the NDSU Campus Flower Gardens

Since both Rachel & Jared went to NDSU, the campus flower gardens were more than just a pretty photo spot, they were a meaningful part of their story. On this sunny afternoon, the blooms were putting on a show with rows of vibrant color, making the perfect backdrop for their first look! You could see the anticipation build as they walked toward each other, and the moment their eyes met, everything shifted. The nerves melted away, replaced with wide smiles, a few happy tears, and that unspoken this is it feeling. They took their time soaking in the moment before heading into portraits that were equal parts romantic and fun!

Wedding Party Photos in Downtown Fargo

After their first look, the whole crew headed to some classic downtown Fargo spots for wedding party photos, and the energy was unmatched. The bridesmaids looked stunning in deep berry dresses that popped against the lush, ivy-covered walls, and the groomsmen kept it timeless in sharp black suits with matching ties. Between the big group shots, the girls shared inside jokes and bursts of laughter while the guys leaned into their more playful side, making for a mix of posed and candid moments. It felt less like a photo session and more like a group of friends having the best time together, exactly the kind of energy that carried through the rest of the day!

The Ceremony at Sanctuary Events Center

The ceremony space at Sanctuary Events Center is naturally warm and inviting, with its rich wood-paneled walls and intimate lighting setting the scene. Rachel & Jared kept their décor classic and timeless, with white chairs, soft greenery, and a draped arch that framed them beautifully. The moment Rachel walked down the aisle, you could feel the whole room soften, all eyes were on her, and Jared’s smile said it all. They exchanged heartfelt vows, lit a unity candle to symbolize their new life together, and sealed it all with a kiss that had the entire room cheering! It was simple, meaningful, and so full of love.

The Reception Celebration

One of the best parts about a Sanctuary Events Center wedding is how seamlessly it flows from ceremony to reception, and Rachel & Jared’s day was the perfect example! Guests transitioned effortlessly into a space set with black linens, eucalyptus greenery, and candlelight, creating an elegant but relaxed atmosphere. The room buzzed with conversation as everyone enjoyed dinner, and the speeches brought both laughter and a few happy tears. When it was time to dance, the floor filled up instantly, from grandparents swaying together to friends jumping in for group songs, the celebration was non-stop. It was exactly the kind of party you hope for when you gather all your favorite people in one room!

Ready For Me To Capture Your Romantic Sanctuary Events Center Wedding? Let’s Chat!

Kiella Lawrence | Destination & North Dakota Wedding Photographer

Rachel & Jared’s wedding was a beautiful reminder that the best days are the ones that feel true to who you are as a couple. They made space for every moment that mattered. From a first look in a place tied to their history. To wedding party photos that captured pure joy, to a reception that was one big, happy celebration. It wasn’t about following every tradition to the letter; it was about creating a day that felt comfortable, meaningful, and completely theirs.

And that’s what made it so special! If you’re dreaming up your own Sanctuary Events Center wedding, know that this venue has everything you need to bring your vision to life, whether that’s classic and elegant, bold and modern, or somewhere in between. Ready for me to capture it? Head to my contact page so we can chat about the ideas you have! If you want to learn more about me and what I do, click here. Can’t wait to hear from you!