“Ashlee grew up in Emily, MN, and Darren in New London, MN. They met on match.com in May of 2008 while they were both going to school in St. Cloud. He first messaged her and after talking online for a couple of weeks decided to meet. Once they were done with school they moved to Uptown Minneapolis together and after 5 ½ years, Darren asked and Ashlee said yes!
The couple chose Pine Peaks Event Center for their wedding venue because of its exclusive private country setting close to Ashlee’s family home in Emily. Many of the wedding guests and family had previously enjoyed Pine Peaks with laughs at some of the past comedy acts. The wedding party and family filled the Retreat House with their own laughter and good times the whole weekend.
The couple exchanged self-written vows in front of family and friends in the Pine Peaks Pavilion. They walked out as husband and wife to a favorite tune from Star Wars at the delight of the guests! The atmosphere for the reception was calming in the Event Center with the scent of dried lavender complimenting the rustic décor.
Chef Dewey announced the menu to the guests and presented the delicious Italian buffet. Fresh bread, Caesar Salad, Sicilian green beans, roasted garlic baby reds, chicken fettuccine and spaghetti with Maucieri’s famous sausage were enjoyed by all. The night livened up and guests danced the night away. Jodi from Maucieri’s Catering made fresh pizzas for the late night guests in the Italian wood oven.
Pine Peaks was honored to share this dream wedding with Ashlee and Darren. May the couple enjoy a lifetime of happiness and perhaps ride into the sunset with Ashlee on the pink bike and Darren right beside her on rollerblades.” -Julie and Dave Peterson
Click here to view Darren and Ashlee’s wedding album.