As some of you know, editing this fabulous publication is not my only pursuit—I also spend part of the year photographing weddings. It’s a beautiful blend that allows me to pursue my passion for storytelling in multiple forms. So, when our team decided to launch the first-ever wedding issue of St. Croix Valley Magazine, my two worlds collided in the best possible way.
Love stories are everywhere. They take shape, not just in the obvious places, but in memories shared and dreams pursued. I’m a firm believer that our pages are bound by love—with the passion of our writers and the generosity of the community members who share their hearts. This may be our first issue focused explicitly on love, but you’ll find this theme in everything we do.
Our team had so much fun diving into current wedding trends, chatting up local vendors and curating a lineup of stories to inspire and inform. You’ll find answers to important topics like how to preserve and showcase your memories and wedding-day hair and makeup.
We also have three real weddings to inspire your planning, including a behind-the-scenes look into two intimate nuptials from our staff (including me!). Read more about my backyard wedding in Polk County, Wisconsin. Managing editor (and former St. Croix Valley Magazine editor) Hailey Almsted also shares about her elegant celebration at the Hewing Hotel.
Not in the wedding planning process? There’s so much more to celebrate in these pages. Winter is the best for dreaming up travel plans; I Know Places Travel helps to get the wheels turning with romantic destinations. It’s also the perfect time of year to indulge; our editorial team pulled together an assortment of bakers and dessert makers (and they do more than weddings!).
Until next time,
—Zoe Yates