Katie & Alek: A Joy-Filled Monterey Ballroom Wedding in Owatonna, Minnesota

Last year, Amy and I decided to step away from doing weddings, as our business has moved towards our commercial brand clients. But when Amy’s cousin called and let her know the good news — and asked if we’d be willing to capture their day — there wasn’t a moment of hesitation. We both said yes instantly. Getting to document Katie and Alek’s wedding felt like such a full-circle moment for us. It wasn’t just another wedding — it was family, celebration, and pure joy all wrapped into one.

How Katie and Alek Met

Katie and Alek’s story started long before either of them knew it would turn into forever. They first met at Pine Haven Christian Assembly in the early 2000s, and remember each other best from those middle school days. Life took them in different directions for a while, but they reconnected years later — twice, actually.

Their first first date didn’t end with sparks (at least not from Alek’s perspective). He left thinking Katie wasn’t interested. But five years later, fate — with a little help from Katie’s cousin Dusty — had other plans. After seeing Alek again at a get-together, Dusty convinced her to text him. She did, and that one message changed everything.

A Family Connection That Was Meant to Be

Once they started dating, it didn’t take long to realize their families were weirdly (and wonderfully) intertwined. Alek’s grandma and Katie’s grandpa used to walk to school together. Two of Alek’s aunts — from opposite sides of his family — once lived with relatives of Katie’s during college. Their moms now work together at the same school, and Alek’s dad and Katie’s stepdad also work together.

Oh, and even though Katie and Alek didn’t grow up near each other, their parents now live just half a mile apart. Alek’s mom swears that swans brought them together.

The Proposal Story

When Alek decided to propose, Katie had a feeling it was coming. He played it cool, pretending to be frustrated that the ring hadn’t arrived yet. Then he suggested a date night hike, which just happened to be at the same park where they first made things official.

By the time they stepped off the path to stand by the lake, Katie was pretty sure she knew what was happening. Alek dropped to one knee and immediately blacked out for a moment (proposal adrenaline is a wild thing). Thankfully, he came back to reality in time to hear Katie say yes.

A Gorgeous Fall Wedding at Monterey Ballroom

Fast forward to the big day — a stunning September wedding at Monterey Ballroom in Owatonna, Minnesota. The weather couldn’t have been more perfect: clear skies, sunshine, and surprisingly warm temps for a fall day.

Family and friends traveled from near and far to celebrate Katie and Alek, and every single moment was full of laughter, love, and celebration. The joy on their faces (and everyone else’s) was absolutely contagious.

As you’ll see from the photos below, the day was nothing short of amazing. Katie and Alek, thank you so much for asking us to capture your beautiful wedding. It was such an honor to be part of it.

Katie and Alek, we love you and can’t wait to see how your future unfolds together — and we’re already looking forward to more parties with you two. But honestly… I’m not sure any celebration will ever top the one you threw for your wedding. That will forever be one of the most fun weddings in our books.

Wedding Vendor Team

Venue: Monterey Ballroom – Owatonna, Minnesota
Caterer: Hy-Vee Owatonna
Florals: Flower Moxie
Stationery: The Knot – Ascending Garland Collection
Wedding Dress: Luxe Bridal
Bridesmaid Dresses: Azazie – Various Styles
Rings: Wedding Day Diamonds
Photographers: Caleb & Amy Gregg – Gregg Media Outdoors