Bent Paddle Brewery

Friday Rehearsal Dinner

Spirit Mountain

Wedding Ceremony 

Wedding Ceremony & Reception

Ceremony

Social Hour

Reception

We will be getting married on July 19th on top of a mountain (Spirit Mountain!) surrounded by our family and close friends. The outdoor ceremony will begin at 5:00 p.m. followed immediately by a social hour and reception in the Moosehead Room. 

First a Small Ceremony…

Two weeks after the wedding, we will have a casual, retro-themed reception to celebrate with more friends and loved ones. Everybody is invited to celebrate with us during our Happily Ever After Party at Lewis and Clark State Park on August 2nd! We will have a picnic buffet and have yard games. Feel free to visit anytime between 12pm - 5pm if you’re in the neighborhood. Here is a link to the Happily Ever After website: https://www.zola.com/wedding/mandyandjoe2025

… And Then a Happily Ever After Party

Please share your photos with us!

Please share the love by sharing the photos you take during our wedding weekend on our wedding photo site! You also have the option to leave us a video message. Thank you for coming to our wedding! We are so excited to celebrate with you! Wedding Website: <a href="https://my.wedibox.com/recVv3fMXJYjfsMj" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://my.wedibox.com/recVv3fMXJYjfsMj</a>

Our Wedding

Some people spend years searching for the right person. Others just happen to be in the right place at the right time. For us, it was both.

We are Joe and Mandy—two people whose lives took completely different paths, only to cross at exactly the right moment. Both of us found our way to Williston High School, where fate (and scheduling) forced us into the same room (Mandy’s classroom) for at least an hour a day as team members for last year’s freshman class. Before long, Joe was finding himself wandering into the classroom with his lunch tray, rushing to that room with his challenges, and stopping by that room at the end of each school day. What started as collaboration soon turned into conversation, then into something more—something easy, something undeniable.

We spend our mornings solving the world’s problems over coffee and our evenings finding new ones over a drink. We cook together, clean together, plan our future together, and have our own little Sunday morning traditions. We battle fiercely in spontaneous Nerf wars, binge-watch exactly three episodes of all the best shows, and share a dream of one day packing up an RV and hitting the road—exploring the continent, visiting friends and family, and making sure we don’t miss a single MLB stadium along the way.

But maybe the best part of us is how much we laugh. We laugh at a good fall down the stairs or a pile of dog poops modeled after Stonehenge. We laugh at the heavy, complicated, and downright absurd parts of life, too. We’ve both seen our share of hardship. But instead of letting it bury us, we meet it with humor—the kind that finds its way into the darkest corners, where it’s needed most.

And then there are the little things—the things that somehow matter most. Like how everywhere we go, Joe always finds Mandy the neatest rock, and she always makes sure to be interested. How we can go back and forth like we’ve been married for decades. How we are inseparable, not just because we love each other, but because we truly like each other.

As Mandy’s daughter Emily put it best: If you see them together, it just makes sense

Our Story

Friday Family Events

Photos

Kate is Mandy’s person—the best friend who has been by her side through every adventure, big and small. From saving her from snakes to cheering her on as she tackled a plate of raw fish, Kate is always up for anything. Whether it’s convincing the usher to allow them to sneak up the backstairs into the theater after the show started or late night talks about anything and everything, she brings laughter, support, and endless fun to Mandy’s life. Mandy couldn’t imagine this day without her and is so grateful to have her standing by her side!

Kate Anderson

This is Garrett, my best man and close friend since age 12. Growing up in the same neighborhood, we participated in cross country, swimming, band, and jazz band together. We played ‘laser tag’ on the water tower from our respective homes with laser pens. In his backyard, we made fun rock designs in the garden, camped, tricked out a shopping cart, and did some very successful song bird hunting. In my backyard, Garrett and I took turns mowing with my Honda mower, which he adored. We had matching sweater vests and were founding members of a high school biker gang (on bicycles).  Garrett and I were roommates during college, and despite now living many hours apart, we stay in frequent contact and continue to share plenty of laughs. Garrett has consistently been there for me through every stage of life—keeping me grounded, helping me when I’m confidently wrong, offering encouragement, and providing unwavering friendship for the past 25 years. I'm honored he's standing beside me on this important day.

Garrett Stoner

Emily is the perfect person for this role, not just because of her keen eye for detail, but because of the love and laughter she brings to every moment. As Mandy’s youngest child and only daughter, she has a special way of keeping her mom smiling, even in the most stressful times. On the wedding day, her honest feedback and steady, calm presence will ensure every little detail is just right. Mandy and Joe couldn’t imagine this day without her and are beyond grateful to have her by their side!

Emily Renaud

Brandon, Mandy’s adventurous middle child, is the perfect person to welcome guests with warmth and enthusiasm. He, with his brother Bradley, will be the first friendly face you see, ensuring everyone feels right at home. After walking his mom down the aisle, he’ll spend the reception swapping Duluth fishing and hiking tips with anyone eager to chat. His kind heart and adventurous spirit make him a special part of this celebration!

Brandon Renaud

Bradley, Mandy’s oldest son, lives, works, and attends college in Milwaukee, but he is making the trip to be by his mom’s side on this important day. He will walk her down the aisle—a role that reflects the love and support he has always shown his family. When he’s not keeping things running smoothly as an usher, you’ll find him sharing his kindness and humor with family and friends. Mandy and Joe are thankful he will be there to celebrate with them and share in this unforgettable moment.

Bradley Renaud

Not only is Veronica an incredibly talented photographer, but she is also one of Mandy’s closest and best friends. Her ability to capture beautiful, heartfelt moments is one of her many super powers—especially since she knows Mandy so well. Every time they’re together, Veronica has a way of bringing out endless smiles, and there’s no one better to capture this special day. And, of course, we can’t forget her “assistant,” Steve, who will be there to offer his expert support!

Veronica

Amber is not just Mandy’s little sister—she’s her favorite (and only) sister, a built-in best friend, and someone Mandy knows she can always count on. She has dropped everything to be there for Mandy many times, and Mandy couldn’t imagine this day without her by her side. On the wedding day, Amber is also the go-to person for any questions or last-minute needs—because if anyone can handle it with humor and a smile, it’s her.

Amber Palmer

There are friends, and then there are people like Shane — the ones who help shape the course of your life.



Shane and I met running cross country and track when I was in middle school. Talk to him at the wedding and you’ll understand, but ever since our first conversation on a cross country bus, he’s been someone I’ve looked up to. I followed Shane like a puppy through my first years of high school. Didn’t have to think once. After he graduated, Shane coached me. After that, he mentored me through my 20s. Shane has continued to be a steady voice of wisdom, perspective, and unwavering loyalty.



We won a state title together as athletes. Now, I have the privilege of standing alongside him again — this time as his assistant coach — as he leads one of the most inspiring and tight-knit programs I’ve ever seen. He’s not just a phenomenal coach; he’s a remarkable human being. A leader of men. A living example of how to move through the world with integrity, humility, and purpose.



Shane is the kind of friend whose perspective I’ll always value, whose example I’ll always admire, and whose role in my life can not be replaced. Having him standing with me on this day is something I’m incredibly grateful for.

Shane Wahlstrom

Wedding Party

Blocked rooms are for a King bed suite with a sleeper sofa that has views of Lake Superior and the St. Louis River. It has a pool and hot tub, and it is a 15-minute walk to the Moosehead reception hall. The cut off date for reserving rooms at this rate is Wednesday, June 18th. Mandy, Joe, and Emily liked staying here! If you need help, ask for Angie. She is the best!

Duluth Inn and Suites (Sleep Inn)

As described on the website, “Mountain Villas is the only lodging on Spirit Mountain, nestled in a private wooded area overlooking the Spirit Mountain ski area… Each villa is individually owned and is tastefully furnished and decorated in its own charming way, comfortably sleeping six with two private bedrooms, two bathrooms, a livingroom with sofa sleeper, a kitchen complete with appliances, cooking utensils, and tableware, plus an area for dining.” Unfortunately, we were unable to block villas because they fill quickly. Mandy and Joe have a villa booked for the wedding. If you’re interested in renting a villa, we recommend trying to do that as soon as possible.

Mountain Villas

Camping is also available on site, and is walking distance from the reception. “Spirit Mountain Campground offers walk-in tenting as well as 73 campsites equipped with fire pits, picnic tables, and electricity. Thirty-nine sites have water hook-ups, and two shower buildings offer 24-hour convenience.”

Spirit Mountain Camping

If you don’t mind spending a little extra and driving a little extra after the reception, The Canal Park Lodge is the place to be! Mandy, Joe, and Emily spent a wonderful weekend here with Joe’s mom, Deb, and Mandy’s boys, Brad and Brandon. Canal Park shopping and restaurants are close by, and the hotel is only feet away from Lake Superior. 

Canal Park Lodge

Accommodations

On Saturday evening, dinner will be provided at the reception, but Sprit Mountain has other dining options close to the accommodations if you stay in Duluth. Check out the website for the options, menus, and times!

Spirit Mountain Dining

Sarah’s Table is one of Joe’s and Mandy’s favorite places to grab brunch in the Duluth area. Between the beautiful views and the allergy-friendly menu and bakery, you can’t go wrong!!

Sarah's Table

The Social House’s Bloody Marys and Corned Beef Hash come highly recommended by Mandy and Joe. An added bonus: it is attached to Adventure Zone which offers mini golf, laser tag, and batting cages. Or if you prefer, Canal Park shopping and easy access to the lakefront board walk.

The Social House - Canal Park

This is the best place to visit on a beautiful day! They offer dining on a deck that is suspended above the board walk. You can listen to the waves as you eat delicious Mexican food, and when you are done, you can shop the Fitger’s shops. 

Mexico Lindo Restaurant

If you want good pizza, it is worth the trip across the bridge to Mandy’s hometown to get Shamrock pizza. This has been a family favorite for years, and they offer delicious gluten-free crust.

Shamrock Pizza

Adventure Zone is a great place for families! It has mini golf, laser tag, games, and batting cages.

Adventure Zone

The North Shore Scenic Railway offers train excursions daily that travel the North Shore of Duluth offering excellent views and a variety of dining options. 

North Shore Scenic Railway

For a fun day of shopping and some tourist activities, visit Canal Park. It offers a variety of shops located on close to Lake Superior.

Canal Park Shopping & Dining & Activities

Fitger’s is a historic building located next to the Duluth Lakewalk. It is filled with small shops and restaurants that can keep a person busy for hours! 

Fitger's Shopping

Take a trip back in time by visiting this walk-up ice cream parlor serving the best milkshakes! They also have scoops, sundaes, and floats. There is a staircase behind the shop that leads to the lakewalk which is a great place to enjoy some ice cream! 

Portland Malt Shoppe

Glensheen is a 39-room mansion on a 12-acre estate along the shores of Lake Superior AND the site of a murder that you can tour. The mansion is rumored to be haunted and the tour guides might answer a question or two about the murders if you ask. 

Glensheen Mansion 

This is one of Mandy’s favorite places to go with her kids! It has a great playground and trails that lead you through the woods next to the river where you can find waterfalls. Emily recommends staying on the trails. When Mandy convinced her to go off the main trails they ended up lost for an hour. 

Lester Park

Brighton Beach, also called “The Rock Beach” by Mandy and her kids, is one of Mandy’s favorite places to visit in Duluth. They have spent hours there skipping rocks and jumping on the larger rocks. It is also a great place to picnic! 

Brighton Beach

Mandy and Joe love baseball! Mandy tries to catch a Duluth Huskies games with her aunt Michelle and dad, Mark when she is in town and the schedule allows—it’s one of their favorite summer traditions! If you’re staying in town after the wedding, the Huskies have home games on Sunday at 3:05 PM and Monday at 6:35 PM at historic Wade Stadium. It’s a fun, affordable way to soak up a little more Duluth charm before heading home. 

Huskies Baseball Gamea

Joe and Mandy accidentally stumbled upon this place one day when they were wandering around looking for a place to have lunch. They have delicious burgers, some of the best wings we have ever had, a unique allergy-friendly menu, and amazing service! 

Joe & Mandy