PAIKKA Summer Wedding

When one of our favorite caterers sends us a couple who met on Bumble, got a dog together, and wanted nothing but fun on their wedding day—you know it’s going to be a good one. Katie and Tom’s PAIKKA summer wedding was exactly that!

Their love story started about seven years ago through mutual friends. A year later, fate gave them a second chance when they reconnected on Bumble—and just like that, sparks flew. From there, their story grew into a shared life, complete with their adorable dog, Winston (who we absolutely loved seeing throughout the planning process!).

For Katie and Tom, the biggest priority throughout wedding planning was simple: fun and zero stress. And that’s exactly the vibe they carried through the entire weekend!

The celebration started with a rehearsal dinner at the Hewing Hotel in the heart of Minneapolis. The couple chose to keep things local for their hotel blocks, opting for Element and TownePlace Suites—super convenient choices for their out-of-town guests. Dana ran their rehearsal at Hewing before the group went back to the private dining space at Tullibee in the hotel. 

On the morning of the big day, the bridal party got ready in the beautiful suite at PAIKKA. We hadn’t done a wedding there since 2017, so it felt good to be back for a PAIKKA summer wedding! They brought in Robak Bridal to do their hair and Makeup By Nicole for their makeup. 

After getting ready, Katie and Tom had their first look captured by talented Michaela Paige Photo. They also chose to exchange their vows privately before the ceremony, just the two of them. It was such a sweet, intimate moment.

One of the reasons we adore a PAIKKA summer wedding is because of the scenery. It’s the perfect blend of industrial city vibes and lush greenery—such a dreamy backdrop for a modern wedding.

After the ceremony, we pivoted slightly from the original decor plan. Initially, we were going to repurpose the garland from the ceremony arch for the head table. But thanks to extra greenery and the bridesmaids’ bouquets, we decided to keep the entire arch up and use it behind Katie and Tom instead. With narrow tables and guests seated on both sides, it was the right call—and the couple absolutely loved how it turned out.

Katie and Tom also rented all their decor through us, keeping things easy and cohesive. They chose fun vases and a mix of glass votive candleholders, which added the perfect romantic glow to the space. Studio B Floral brought the vision to life with colorful florals, and since we share a space with them, the collaboration was seamless from start to finish.

Once the formalities were done, it was time to party! Guests dined on a delicious spread from Fork & Flair and danced the night away thanks to music from Instant Request. 

And let’s not forget the late-night snack—Domino’s pizza, cut into squares on thick crust (pro tip: always request plates and napkins!). It was the perfect comfort food to keep the dance floor going strong ‘til the end.

Everything ran smoothly thanks to a dream team of vendors, and we’re so grateful for the opportunity to bring Katie and Tom’s wedding vision to life.

From a Bumble match to a stunning wedding—this day was one for the books!