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09 . 19 . 26

Alex & Mason

THE BEGINNING

      They say the butterfly effect is when one small, seemingly ordinary choice sets off a chain of events that changes everything. Our story is the definition of that. One decision, one introduction, one birthday party that changed the entire course of our lives.

      I went to South Dakota State University, where I made some of my closest friends, including Mykin Severson. After graduating in 2020, life took us in different directions. I moved back home to Prior Lake, Minnesota, while Mykin started a job in Des Moines, Iowa.

      In 2021 for her birthday that year, Mykin wanted to gather friends both old and new. She rented an Airbnb in Des Moines, and I drove down from Minnesota to celebrate. What I didn’t know was that fate or God himself was already setting the stage.

      One of Mykin’s coworkers, Michael Blank, invited his new friend Mason, who had recently moved to Ankeny from Denver during Covid. Mason will tell you that as he walked up to the Airbnb and saw me through the window, he instantly knew he wanted to talk to me. At that very same moment inside, one of the girls nudged me and said, “You should definitely talk to that guy tonight,” pointing straight at Mason. And just like that, the butterfly effect was in motion.

      The night unfolded like magic! Easy conversation, endless laughter, and a first kiss that felt like the stars themselves had aligned. I never told anyone, but deep down I knew in that moment that I was going to marry him. Months later, when Mason and I were officially dating, he admitted he had felt the same way that night too.

      Looking back, it feels like the universe conspired to place us in that room at that exact time. One small choice led us here, to a forever that began with a birthday party, a chance meeting, and the kind of love that only the butterfly effect. could create.

THE WEDDING DAY

We are so excited to welcome you to Minnesota! A place that holds my deepest roots and a huge piece of my heart. While Mason’s family is spread across the country, nearly all of mine lives here, and it means the world to share this beautiful state with you.

Minnesota often carries the funny stereotype of being “always cold,” but the truth is, it’s breathtaking in every season, especially fall, my favorite time of year. The air turns crisp, the trees glow with golden and burnt-orange tips, and there’s a sense of warmth and coziness that you can’t help but feel.

Early in our relationship, I wanted Mason to see the Minnesota I love, so I brought him to Stillwater. We spent the day riding the trolley, walking along the river, popping into shops, sipping cocktails, and eating our way through town. At the end of that day, we looked at each other and thought, "This was one of the best days ever. we should get married here someday". Four years later, here we are, making that dream come true.

Stillwater feels like a hidden gem, quaint, cozy, and full of charm. It reminds me of a little Midwestern version of Breckenridge. It’s only 30 minutes from the Minneapolis airport, with boutique hotels and walkable streets lined with restaurants, shops, and river views. Once you arrive, you won’t need a car if you are staying on main street. Just a sense of adventure and maybe an extra layer for those crisp September evenings.

Our wedding theme is all about celebrating love, not just ours, but the love that surrounds us in all of you. The Danish word hygge (pronounced hoo-gah) beautifully captures what we hope to create: a cozy, warm, joy-filled atmosphere where conversation flows, laughter lingers, and everyone feels wrapped in comfort and connection.

We hope you’ll not only celebrate with us but also take this weekend as a chance to fall in love with Minnesota, with Stillwater, and maybe even with each other all over again.

FRIDAY

  • Welcome drinks

  • The Freight House

  • 7:00 - 9:00 pm

SATURDAY

  • Ceremony & Reception

  • The Lora

  • 3:00 - 11:00 pm

SUNDAY

  • Farewell brunch

  • The Freight House

  • 10:00 am - 12:00 pm

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Attire

Cocktail

Dress to impress — polished, stylish, and party-ready!

  • A cocktail or midi dress, jumpsuit, or a chic matching set. Heels, wedges, or dressy flats complete the look.

  • A suit or dress pants with a blazer and button-down shirt. A tie or pocket square is encouraged but not required.

Think elevated and festive, perfect for celebrating, dancing, and taking photos — a step up from semi-formal, but not as formal as black tie.

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Things to Do

Take a Cruise on the St. Croix River

Evening or brunch cruises often include live music and local wine.

Stroll Historic Downtown

Grab a cider or latte and stroll along the riverwalk as the leaves begin to change.

Bike or Walk the Brown’s Creek State Trail

Rent bikes downtown or stop for ice cream halfway at the cute trail cafés.

Where to Stay

Hotel blocks are reserved at each of the following hotels.

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Gifts are never expected, but always appreciated.

KENZIE HECKMANN

WEDDINGS + EVENTS

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