Wedding Day

Ceremony

Reception

Our Wedding

Our love story began online in December 2023, when we found each other at the unexpected but perfectly right time. For our first date, Derek made reservations at The Pickwick in Duluth and told me to dress nicely. The awkwardness and nerves quickly faded; we didn’t want the night to end, so we went to Wild State Cider, my favorite, and bonded even more. We texted constantly, and on our third date Derek popped the question, “Will you be my girlfriend?” He surprised me with a beautiful necklace he’d hidden in his pocket until dinner, a sweet hint of things to come. Our love grew quickly and strongly. We spent every moment we could together—Derek cooking dinners, long walks near Lake Superior, and lazy evenings in my studio at the Vue. We planned to move in when the right one-bedroom opened up, and in August 2024 we started the next chapter by making our first home together. Our routines and traditions blended naturally as we built a life side by side. On Labor Day weekend 2025 Derek asked the bigger question, “Will you marry me?” He’d bought the ring months earlier but kept the surprise. He proposed at Leif Erickson Park on the shores of Lake Superior on a warm, beautiful August day, surrounded by our cherished families. It was perfect. Every day we find new reasons to love each other more. We’re so excited to become one in marriage, continue growing together, and celebrate with you.

Our Duluth Love Story

Our Story

Photos

Nicole Meyer

Noelle Hoepner

Heidi Stang

Megan Upham

Danika Thompson

Dain Thompson

Cody Meyer

Nick Hoepner

Zack Fredrickson

John Anderson

Wedding Party

Ultimate Formal Attire Shopping Guide

25 Hand-Picked Formal Guest Dresses

Tux vs. Suit: What's the Difference?

The wedding will be in a formal ballroom and we'd love for you to feel as elegant as the room! Please dress in formal attire for our wedding.

Dress Code

Q + A

We have discounted rates for our wedding with the Canal Park Lodge. When you call to book, say it’s for the Hoepner/Thompson Wedding!

Canal Park Lodge

Sheraton Duluth Hotel

Fitger's Inn

A local landmark, Radisson Hotel Duluth-Harborview is Minnesota’s longest operating Radisson, having opened in 1970. Our building is circular which makes for uniquely shaped guestrooms and beautiful views of the Hillside, City, Harbor and Lake Superior. All our 268 guestrooms have a microwave, mini-refrigerator and Keurig coffee maker. You will enjoy complimentary wi-fi, free parking, indoor pool, sauna and Business Center.. Our lobby welcomes you with a retro, 70's design just as it has welcomed numerous celebrities such as Elvis Presley, Bob Dylan, and Johnny Cash. Experience the best of downtown Duluth from our rotating restaurant located atop the 16th floor of our historic Radisson hotel. With fast-casual food, board games, and a full bar, Harbor 360 offers an accessible and affordable dining experience for everyone. Gather your family and friends, share a meal, and take in the breathtaking views of Duluth and the harbor as you rotate around our restaurant. Open to residents and tourists alike, Harbor 360 is the place to be for an unforgettable sightseeing experience. Join us for breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day of the week. Reservations are taken only for parties of eight people or more. We are 100% connected to the Skywalk, which connects you to DECC and Amsoil Arena in indoor comfort. Easy access to Canal Park, the Lake Walk and Aerial Elevator Bridge can be found using the Skywalk or a short outdoor walk.

Radisson Hotel Duluth - Harborview

Along the shore of Lake Superior, just minutes from downtown Duluth, Minnesota and attractions such as the Great Lakes Aquarium, this hotel offers a free hot daily breakfast. Hampton Inn Duluth-Canal Park is only steps from the Duluth Lakewalk and Canal Park. Guests can also go on a scenic train ride or explore the Lake Superior Zoo only minutes from the hotel. While staying at the Duluth Hampton Inn, guests can go for a swim in the indoor pool or take advantage of the fitness room. Guestrooms feature amenities including mini-refrigerators, coffeemakers and free high-speed internet access.

Hampton Inn Duluth Canal Park

Travel

Visit Canal Park, one of the most scenic and treasured parts of Duluth! You can hit the shops and restaurants and soak in the North Shore.

Canal Park

One of Natalie's favorite places to check out. Lots to see and do for kids and adults alike!

Great Lakes Aquarium

Tour the iconic Glensheen Mansion on the shores of Lake Superior! A must-do for history and house lovers!

Glensheen Mansion

Natalie and Derek's favorite Italian restaurant in Duluth, featuring lots of yummy pasta dishes and cocktails right on Lake Superior. A heads up that this restaurant is booked up quickly! Be sure to make reservations online before going so you get a table!

Va Bene

One of Duluth's neighborhoods, Lincoln Park, is called the "Craft District" for its plentiful breweries, tap rooms and cideries. Check out Wild State Cider or head to the different options down the road!

Wild State Cider

A warm and unique Duluth distillery located right next to the Aerial Lift Bridge in Canal Park. If you're a fan of craft cocktails and exploring new drinks, Vikre is a place you've got to check out! Then buy a bottle to take home with you!

Vikre Distillery

One of Troy Hoepner's favorite spots. If you're looking to take home some fresh smoked fish, stop by Russ Kendall's on your way up the shore, located just off of Scenic Highway 61 in Two Harbors!

Russ Kendall's Smoke House

Go check out the beautiful waterfalls and walking paths at Gooseberry Falls! The spring time is a great time to go and see the rushing waterfalls. It's spectacular!

Gooseberry Falls State Park

While you're up the shore, be sure to swing by Rustic Inn and grab some food and pie! Rumor has it, the original "Betty's Pies" recipes are baked at Rustic Inn!

Rustic Inn Cafe

One of the most photographed locations in Minnesota and rightfully so! Split Rock Lighthouse is a must see.

Natalie & Derek

Natalie & Derek

Photos