Planning Your Perfect Rochester, MN Wedding: A Guide to Top Local Vendors

If Rochester, Minnesota, is a city renowned for its medical spirit of innovation (thank you, Mayo Clinic), the Med City is also a vibrant hub for creating unforgettable weddings. And, believe it or not, it’s also a city for destination weddings for couples dreaming of a snowy winter wedding.

So, whether you envision a grand hotel ballroom wedding, a rustic barn celebration, or an intimate gathering, Rochester and its surrounding areas offer a diverse array of talented wedding vendors ready to bring your dream day to life. This guide will help you navigate the options and connect with some of the top local professionals.

At the end, you can find two free PDFs: The list of vendors and a guide to help you plan your wedding in Rochester.

Venues:

Finding the right venue is probably the most difficult step. The foundation of your wedding day is the venue. Rochester boasts a variety of styles to suit any preference:

Historic & Elegant: The Mayowood Stone Barn, probably the most famous, offers a unique and historic ranch setting with century-old stone buildings, frequently praised for its picturesque qualities. For a classic and sophisticated feel, the Kahler Grand Hotel provides versatile banquet hall options in the heart of downtown. The Plummer House, a pretty, affordable English Tudor mansion with stunning period details and beautiful gardens, offers a timeless and romantic backdrop.
Modern & Chic: The Rochester Art Center, overlooking the Zumbro River, provides a contemporary and light-filled space with an urban feel for the modern couple. J.Powers at the Hilton offers several ballrooms and a unique Terrace with a view of the cityscape.
Rustic & Charming: For a more rustic aesthetic, consider venues like Pond View Barn (Pine Island, a short drive from Rochester) and The Garten MarketPlatz with its amazing outdoor property.
Wineries: If you like nature and good food, wineries such as The Four Daughters or Villa Bellezza are amazing places.
Unique Options: The Blue Moon Ballroom offers a distinctive space with a dedicated dance floor and vintage charm. Hilltop House, a newer venue, presents 20th-century elegance thoughtfully updated with modern amenities.

You can check here for a list of affordable venues in Rochester, MN. And dog owners will appreciate the list of dog-friendly venues.Check also our blog for alternative venues and the top venues in Rochester.

Restaurants & Rehearsal Dinner Venues

If you are planning a mini-wedding and need a restaurant, or are having a brunch the day after your wedding, Rochester has a lot of options. The most famous restaurant in town is probably The Blue Duck.
Terza Ristorante: Offers sophisticated private dining spaces and delicious, authentic Italian cuisine for an elegant and warm atmosphere.

Terza Ristorante: Offers sophisticated private dining spaces and delicious, authentic Italian cuisine for an elegant and warm atmosphere.
Chester’s Kitchen & Bar: A popular downtown spot offering American comfort food in a chic setting with options for larger group reservations.
Five West Kitchen + Bar: Features a more casual and modern vibe with a versatile menu and a private event space that can accommodate rehearsal dinners.

Tents

Giant tent installed for home backyard wedding

If you are planning a backyard wedding, you will probably need a tent.

Big tents are not cheap, and if you desire a wooden floor, that would cost you as much as a nice venue. But you will have the joyce of setting your wedding at the place you love.

Majestic Tents:

Photographers & Videographers

artistic silhouette of the bride and groom with the triangular windows at the top of the pond view barn

Your wedding photos and videos will be cherished for a lifetime. Rochester has a talented pool of creatives:

Photographers: Look for photographers whose style resonates with you – be it light and airy, dark and moody, classic portraiture, or candid photojournalism. Make sure to select a package that includes an engagement session.
French Touch Photography, based in Rochester, is known for an artistic and documentary style. However, you might prefer another style. Here are some other photographers serving Minnesota that I like:

Penny McCoy (based in Duluth)
Becca Dilley Photography
Bradley Hanson Photography

Videographers: Look for a videographer whose work you love.

Hard Copy Film Co
Bobby Redmond (Redmond Digital Media)
The Peterson Brothers Production

Floral Artistry

Flowers add color, fragrance, and beauty to your celebration. Local florists can create everything from bouquets and boutonnieres to elaborate centerpieces and ceremony decor:

Flowers by Jerry, a long-standing family-owned business, is a beloved local choice with a reputation for quality and service. Rennings Flowers is another established Rochester florist known for their beautiful wedding designs and passion for floral artistry.

Caterers

Caterers: Pinnacle Catering (part of Powers Ventures, which is associated with venues like the Rochester Event Center and Canadian Honker Catering) is a major player known for custom menus and extensive experience with events of all sizes. Catering By Design is another well-regarded local caterer. Many venues, such as the Rochester Art Center, also offer excellent in-house catering options or preferred caterer lists.

Food Trucks and Bar Trucks

photograph of engaged couple in front of food truck having fun

Cake Bakers

Even though couples are turning more and more toward fruit pies or cupcakes, the wedding cake is still a pretty solid tradition at weddings. If you want a three-tier cake or just a delicious small wedding cake, you will need a good cake baker.

Cake Bakers: While some caterers offer cake services, dedicated bakeries specialize in wedding cakes. Some may be home-based or operate out of commercial kitchens and are known through word-of-mouth or venue recommendations. For example, Sweet Assurance by Jeffrey J. Hoppe is noted for custom designs. Don’t overlook talented local bakers who may not have large storefronts but create incredible wedding cakes and desserts.

DJs

The right music and entertainment will keep your guests engaged and celebrating:

DJs: Companies like Ever After Entertainment offer DJ services, often along with lighting packages.
Look for DJs who are experienced in reading a crowd, acting as an MC if needed, and creating the desired atmosphere for your reception.

Wedding Day DJs
Matt Maas

Live Music in Rochester, MN

wedding-reception-with-live-music-at-aster-cafe-41

Live Music: Depending on your preference, consider local bands or musicians (e.g., string quartets, acoustic guitarists) for your ceremony, cocktail hour, or reception.

Wedding Planners

A wedding planner can be invaluable for managing logistics, coordinating vendors, and ensuring your day runs smoothly:

Full-Service & Day-Of Coordination: Day-of coordination services are available and can be a lifesaver on your wedding day. For more comprehensive planning, explore local event planners. Searching on wedding-specific sites or local business directories for “Rochester, MN wedding planners” will yield options for both full-service and partial planning.

Brianna Schwartz at Luna Soul Events
Kastina & Co
James Peterson at RSVPeterson
Happily Ever Laughter Events

Wedding Officiants

Choosing an officiant who understands your vision for the ceremony is key:

Diverse Options: WeddingWire and The Knot list officiants in and around the Rochester area, including those offering religious, secular, interfaith, and civil union ceremonies. James Risser, Wedding Officiant, is one local option, and services like Guide Your Heart (which sometimes offers premarital counseling as well) also serve the region.

Wedding Attire:

Finding the perfect wedding attire and a great beauty team completes your look. If you are in need of a personal stylist, consider Styled by Alicia Marie. Otherwise, bridal shops will do the job.

Bridal Salons: Rochester and nearby towns have local bridal salons such as :
The White Rose Bridal (in St. Charles).
Finery Bridal Chic

For menswear, local formalwear stores can provide excellent service; consider Knight’s Chamber located in The Galleria at University Square, or Men’s Wearhouse.

Dress & Suit Alterations:

Once you get your perfect outfit, you need to make sure it suits your body shape. A good alteration service can make all the difference.

Wendy Lou Sew:
Susanna Bordelon: Looking Sharp Alterations
Trester Tailor
TM Alterations
Mary’s Custom Sewing

Hair Stylists and Makeup Artists:

makeup pistol pouder during bride getting ready

Hair & Makeup Artists: Many local salons and freelance artists specialize in bridal hair and makeup. Look for professionals with a strong portfolio of bridal work and positive client reviews. Check for artists who offer trials.

Getting Around: Transportation

Bus for wedding party, transportation, and wedding day

Ensure your wedding party and guests arrive on time and safely:

Rochester City Lines specializes in wedding shuttle services and bus rentals, ideal for guest transportation. Other local transportation companies offer options ranging from limousines to party buses.
Star Transportation
Roch Party Bus
Rochester Trolley & Tour Co.

Rentals:

For items like specialty linens, unique decor, tents, tables, chairs, and decorative lighting beyond what your venue provides, companies like Majestic Events (based in Rochester) can supply a wide range of rental items.

Collected & Co. (Edina)
Rentex Rentals

Wedding Jewelers

The rings on your fingers are the most enduring symbols of your commitment. Finding a jeweler you trust is key to selecting the perfect engagement ring and wedding bands that you’ll cherish for a lifetime. Whether you’re looking for a classic design, a custom creation, or a vintage piece, Rochester’s local jewelers offer expert guidance and exquisite craftsmanship to help you find the jewelry that tells your unique love story.

Lasker Jewelers: A family-owned business with over a century of experience, offering a wide range of high-quality engagement rings, wedding bands, and fine jewelry.
Riddle’s Jewelry: A trusted local expert specializing in high-quality jewelry, allowing you to create a truly one-of-a-kind piece.

Invitations & Stationery

Your wedding stationery is the first glimpse your guests will have of your special day, setting the tone and style for the entire celebration. From elegant save-the-dates and formal invitations to day-of items like programs, menus, and place cards, the right paper goods tie everything together beautifully. These local specialists can help you create a cohesive and personalized suite.

Minuteman Press: A high-quality, fast, and efficient service. An old-fashioned local shop. Dale, the owner, would be a good source of advice.
Allegra Print & Mail: A comprehensive local print shop that can handle everything from custom invitation printing to mailing services. Affordable and fast turnaround.

Photo Booth Rentals

Want to add an extra dose of fun and create instant keepsakes for your guests? A photo booth is a fantastic way to capture candid, joy-filled moments throughout your reception. It provides built-in entertainment and gives your guests a personalized favor to take home. From classic enclosed booths to modern open-air setups with fun backdrops, there’s a style to fit any wedding.
If you are not aware, we offer a free photo booth with unlimited prints with all our packages.

Of course, if you don’t need a wedding photographer, then here are some options.

Ever After Entertainment: This company frequently offers photo booth rentals as part of their wedding packages, complete with props and attendants.

Wedding Favors

Thank your guests for celebrating with you with a thoughtful and personal wedding favor. This is a chance to give them a small token that reflects your personality as a couple or the theme of your day. Consider unique, locally-sourced items that give your out-of-town guests a literal taste of Rochester.

A Beer from Thesis Beer Project or LTS Brewing Company.
A Local Candle from worldofscentscandle
Chocolaterie Stam: Offer your guests a sweet treat with locally-made, artisanal chocolates. You can select individual pieces or small custom boxes.
Rochester Farmers Markets: For a DIY approach, source local honey, small jars of jam, or other artisanal goods directly from local producers to create your own personalized favors.

Accommodations & Hotel Blocks

Ensuring your out-of-town guests have a comfortable and convenient place to stay is a crucial part of being a great host. Arranging a hotel block not only simplifies the booking process for your guests but can also secure them a discounted rate. Look for hotels that are close to your venue and offer the amenities your guests will appreciate.

Hilton Rochester Mayo Clinic Area: Connected to the Mayo Civic Center and J.Powers, this is a prime location with modern amenities and experience in handling wedding blocks.
The Kahler Grand Hotel: A historic and central option, perfect if your wedding is downtown or even at the hotel itself.
Fairfield Inn & Suites Rochester Mayo Clinic Area/Saint Marys: Offers comfortable rooms and is known for its excellent service and convenient location for guests exploring the city.
Hyatt House Rochester / Mayo Clinic Area: A great option for guests looking for more space, as it offers apartment-style rooms with kitchens.

Miscellaneous:

Custom Keepsake Drawings by Michelle: customkeepsakedrawings.com

Tips for Choosing Your Rochester, MN Wedding Vendors:

Start Early: Popular vendors, especially venues and photographers, can book up more than a year in advance, particularly for peak season dates.
Read Reviews & Ask for Referrals: Check online reviews on sites like The Knot, WeddingWire, Google, and Facebook. Ask recently married friends, family, or other trusted vendors for their recommendations.
Check Portfolios & Attend Tastings/Consultations: Ensure the vendor’s style aligns with your vision. For photographers and videographers, carefully review their portfolios. For caterers and bakers, tastings are crucial. For florists and planners, consultations will help determine if they’re a good fit.
Understand Contracts & Pricing: Read all contracts carefully before signing. Ensure you understand all fees, payment schedules, cancellation policies, and the specific services included. Don’t hesitate to ask questions.
Communicate Your Vision Clearly: The more information you provide about your style, preferences, budget, and expectations, the better your vendors can meet your needs and bring your vision to life.
Trust Your Gut: Choose vendors you feel comfortable with, who listen to your ideas, and who demonstrate professionalism and genuine enthusiasm for your wedding. A good rapport is important.

Planning a wedding in Rochester, MN, can be an exciting journey. With its array of dedicated and talented professionals, you’re sure to find the perfect team to create a truly memorable and magical day. Happy planning!

Get in Touch Today

Bonus: your free guides to download and start planning your big day.

Download and Print Your Checklist Here, including questions to ask your wedding vendors.
Download and Print Your Here, The Essential Guide to Your Rochester, MN Wedding