Thursday, December 20, 2012

{Bliss Events & Weddings}


Meet Alicia - (and her beautiful family)...!

{We always love to work with Alicia and the Bliss crew!  A "Bliss wedding" at Rustic Oaks is a lovely-lovely combination!!  Brides & grooms - if you're looking for a truly full service planner/decorator/coordinator... contact Bliss!  (They do free consults!) :)  Lastly, I have to talk a little about Alicia: She is a beautiful person, inside and out - who loves her family and loves weddings!  She's an incredibly hard worker and a joy to work with; she goes above and beyond for clients - and leads the Bliss crew by example.  We look forward to many more Bliss weddings at Rustic Oaks!}     


















*A little about me...I was born in Grand Forks, and grew up in the Twin Cities but moved to a farm South of Moorhead when I was 12. I used to play at the Rustic Oaks property when I was a kid! Now I am married and live in South Fargo. We have two fabulous little boys named Ryder and Maddox and an Old English Bulldog named Darby. When I am not planning weddings I love to entertain at my house and travel; I also love playing outdoor sports and hunting.

*A little about my business...Bliss is a full-service wedding and event planning and decorating company. Our goal is take the stress off of our clients and make their event everything they imagined it would be. We offer a full line of rental décor ranging from vintage props and linens to the most modern décor. We are constantly educating ourselves on the latest trends in décor and event styling and are always adding new “toys” to our inventory. We love surprising our clients with new pieces!

*My typical clientele...We work with the best clients! Our clients come to us in all stages of planning and with all different personalities and styles – just like our weddings!  We like to sit down with each of our clients and get to know their needs to ensure we are a good fit them. Then we figure out what services best meet their plans and budgets. You don’t have to spend a fortune to have a beautiful and relaxing event!

*What sets me apart from my competition...Bliss is a full team of smiling, know-how-to-do-it, extraordinary people. We take time to get to know our clients and focus on their pain points so they don’t have to. We also keep our team updated on what tends are popular and how we can use them in our events.

*A current wedding trend that I'm loving...Separation of spaces! I love being able to create unique settings inside of one room – lounges, bars, dance space, dinner space – all can be separated but together - making the event more of an experience!

*My experience(s) working at Rustic Oaks...Oh how I love thee Rustic Oaks! Whether I am dangling from the barn rafters or hanging a chandelier in one of the big trees I can always expect the smiling faces of Anne, David or Emily to greet me, ask what I am doing (because generally it needs some kind of explanation!) and make me and team feel welcome. No other venue in town offers the level of personal customer service that the Rustic Oaks team provides.  It is always a pleasure to work at the venue and with the RO crew!

*What I can offer Rustic Oaks brides & grooms (and other special events clients)...An event filled with special touches! Bliss takes great pride in coming up with new concepts and ideas and then finding the best way to implement them with the beautiful landscape at Rustic Oaks.

*The best way to see more of my work/learn more about my business...Check out our website or Facebook page! Or better yet, give us a call for a free consultation and we’ll tell you everything you want to know!

*The best way to contact me…Email us at: blissevents@outlook.com or Phone: 701-261-4730

Monday, December 17, 2012


‎"Every dreamer knows that it is possible to be homesick for a place you've never been to." - Judith Thurman 

...never been to Rustic Oaks? ...intrigued by the beautiful photos? Maybe it's time to schedule a visit. It's a magical-magical place!

To schedule a tour or venue visit, contact Emily:
218.343.0347
rusticoaks@live.com
facebook.com/rusticoaks ~ message me!
rusticoaks.net ~ contact tab!

I would love to meet YOU this holiday season!  I encourage you to schedule a visit if you're curious about all we have to offer!

Friday, December 7, 2012

adios rustic oaks! {my husband and i are headed to AZ!} i am looking forward to vacation...but also to my return; i can't wait to see a week's worth of progress when i get back!

my phone and computer are also coming with on vacation...so feel free to contace me at any time!

Monday, December 3, 2012

This wonderfully-massive hole is ready for its foundation footings!  Check out our facebook page for more photos of the progress!
 
  

 


Friday, November 30, 2012

{barn addition progression}

The Rustic Oaks Barn is about to double in size! 
 
The prep work began right at the end of our 2012 season; we are now ready to pour the new foundation for both the Nokken House AND the barn addition!  The addition will be complete with new bathrooms, a kitchen & bar, an enclosed stairwell, a wheelchair lift, and more!  We are excited to announce that this addition will allow us to host weddings and events year-round!  Throughout the renovation and building process, I will continue to photograph the progression and will be sharing the journey with you! 
 
Projected completion date: May 1!  Enjoy.
 
 

Thursday, November 29, 2012

We have...

MORE big news...and another big addition coming to Rustic Oaks!
 
 

{a house gets a new home}

The nokken house made its move to its new home at rustic oaks!   
 
It has always been part of the Rustic Oaks dream to be able to accommodate more overnight guests; so when the nokken house went up for auction, it caught our attention.  This historic home was located just 5 miles north of Rustic Oaks...and it was in beautiful condition!  After a successful bid, we went to work on the home.  I've had the opportunity to photograph various parts of the renovation process, so now I can share the transformation with you!
 
To view photos of the nokken transformation...and its journey to Rustic Oaks, visit our facebook page and check out the albums: "nokken house progression" and "the big move."
 
We are very excited about this new addition to the venue...and we are excited to share it with all of you! 
 
 

Tuesday, November 27, 2012

We are very excited to announce that we have another inn on site! The Nokken Inn will be ready to rent for our 2013 season! As we continue to grow our business, we hope to make exciting and positive changes that reflect our dream venue: a place for families & friends to gather, grow as people, relax, be creative, and celebrate in congruence with nature.
 
 
the anticipation is killing you, right?!  :) 
 
since "our big gift" is already on site (and it really is BIG, so it's hard to miss if you drive by)
 
...i think it's time to formally spill the beans!

Monday, November 26, 2012

Big News!

We recently had a BIG present delivered to Rustic Oaks! 
 
...any guesses what the delivery man was transporting!?
 
 

Wednesday, November 21, 2012

our 3 awesome handymen {mike, brandon & ray} were beyond thrilled to take on the manly task of building a playhouse! 
 
it was very fun for me to watch them work...and eavesdrop on their playhouse conversations (I heard the word "cute" in the majority of their sentences; I may or may not have detected some sarcasm...!) 
 
nonetheless, they did an incredible job creating the new "mini inn!"
 
 
*check out more photos on our facebook page!

Tuesday, November 20, 2012

we have lots of new and exciting projects starting to take place at rustic oaks!  this one...is for the kiddos!! 
 
{we love all of our little visitors we meet at weddings/events...& when we keep the kids happy...we keep mom & dad happy!}
 
check back soon for more photos & updates; follow us on facebook to watch the progress of the new playhouse!

Friday, October 26, 2012

Get Hitched!

Get Hitched is only a week away!
 
There will be free champagne, food samples, yummy desserts and TONS of great wedding ideas and inspiration! It's like Pinterest come to life! Bring your girlfriends and listen to great talks from some amazing vendors, mingle with other brides and wedding professionals about all of your ideas, and stick around for a few fun giveaways!

*Plains Art Museum...Nov 2nd...6-9pm!
*Anne and I will be there! Will you?

Monday, October 22, 2012

Facebook Updates...!

Because of some recent changes on facebook - only about 10% of our fans receive our updates on their FB feeds.

To keep RECEIVING ALL POSTS/UPDATES FROM Rustic Oaks (or any other page you have liked) you have to hover the mouse on the "Like" button near the company name; in the drop-down menu select "ADD TO INTEREST LISTS". Then create an interest list (and make a name for your favorite sites). When you select that interest list you will see these posts and you won't miss anything!

I recommend that you follow the above instructions for ANY Facebook page you care about, so you can continue seeing all the posts from the pages you love!

Monday, October 15, 2012

Promo Video!

 
{Shot at Rustic Oaks!}
 
...it's a must watch!  Enjoy!

Saturday, September 29, 2012

a rustic fall





 
{photos by emily finley | images off broadway}

Tuesday, September 25, 2012

NEW 2013 OPENING: Saturday - July 13th! 
We will re-book this date on a first come-first served basis! 
 
Contact Emily if you're interested! 
(rusticoaks@live.com or 218.343.0347)

Monday, September 24, 2012

Kind words...!

Our most recent review...! 
(It absolutely made my day!!)

"I don't even know where to begin. From the moment I drove out to Rustic Oaks, I knew with everything in me, that this was the place I wanted to marry my best friend. All I have heard since our wedding was how beautiful and perfect everything was. It was better than anything I could have imagined. It was truly the best day of our lives and we are so happy we were able to share it with our friends and family. Dave, Anne, and Emily were a blessing! :-) Thank you Rustic Oaks for making our dream wedding come true! Love you all!"

Tuesday, September 18, 2012

9.18.12

what a gorgeous day out at rustic oaks!  as i drove down the gravel driveway - i couldn't help but notice how much the prairie and wildflowers popped against the overcast sky!  coincidentally, my camera was sitting in my passenger seat! 
 
as i walked around and sapped a few photos...i thought to myself - wow, how lucky am i!?  two years ago today i got married at rustic oaks!  life is so good!  i am very happily married...i have a wonderful family and friends...and just look at where i get to work!!  :) 
 
i am blessed much more than i deserve!
 
 

Sunday, August 26, 2012

Jewel & Weston {In His Images Photography}

 

A message from the photographer:

I'm Savannah Hayes, the owner & photographer at In His Image Photography in Grand Forks ND. My passion for photography stems first from my love for the Lord and my desire to capture the uniqueness of His Image in every subject placed before my lens. From the angst and excitement of a graduating senior, to 2 souls commiting their forevers to one another, and around again to the welcoming of new life.

My photography style is clean and simple with the emphasis being on the emotion of the moment captured. Rustic Oaks was a perfectly beautiful venue to work in and photograph- so well maintained with every little details looked after.

Thank you to Rustic Oaks for the opportunity to shoot at your beautiful location, and thank you to future clients/friends for opening your lives to me! :)

-Savannah


To see more of Savannah's work...visit her website: www.capturehisimage.com/
To see more photos from Jewel & Weston's wedding: check out their album on the Rustic Oaks facebook page!

Friday, August 24, 2012

Success...!

WOW!  What an incredibly fun and super successful Open House! 

Endless thanks to our generous and talented vendors:

Rustic Trunk, Speak Easy, Green Mill, Michael Larson & crew, Digital Rhythms DJ, Alpine Carriages, Tessa Nelson with Mary Kay, Images Off Broadway, Finley Media Productions, Prairie Petals, Bliss Events & Weddings, Mariah Lynn Designs, Old 52 General Store, Repeat Boutique, The Golden Spoon Traveling Tea Room, Love in the Oven Bakery, and Lindsay Arneson Creative!

And thank you to all of our amazing friends, family, and guests - for coming out and supporting Rustic Oaks!  It was wonderful to see so many smiling faces enjoying the beautiful evening!

Photos and video of the event will be coming soon...!  (Thanks to my talented sister-in-law Sarah from Images Off Broadway...and my husband Ryan at Finley Media Productions!)  For now...enjoy a couple of sneak peek photos...!



Monday, August 20, 2012

Join us THIS WEDNESDAY - Aug. 22nd {4-8pm} for

A RUSTIC INSPIRED OPEN HOUSE!

Spotlight Vendor: Carrie @ Rustic Trunk
Free Food: Courtesy of our generous friends @ Speak Easy
Free Beer & Bevs: From our good friends @ Green Mill
Live Music: Performed by the talented Michael Larson
DJ Services: Mike Fredette with Digital Rhythms
Horse Drawn Carriage Rides: Alpine Carriages
Mary Kay: Tessa Nelson
Photography: Sarah @ Images Off Broadway
Videography: Finley Media Productions
Floral: Prairie Petals
Decor: Bliss Events & Weddings
Jewelry: Mariah Lynn Designs
Old Fashion Soda Samples: Old 52 General Store
Vintage Display: Repeat Boutique
Tea & Sweets: The Golden Spoon Traveling Tea Room
Delicious Treats: Love in the Oven Bakery
Lindsay Arneson Creative
And More...!

Bring your family & friends to Rustic Oaks for a night of fun! Enjoy some free food and beverages, a variety of music, yard games, a campfire, and more!

Contact Emily with questions!
218.343.0347
www.rusticoaks.net - contact tab!

Rustic Oaks
12155 3rd St S
Moorhead, MN 56560

Sunday, August 5, 2012

warm fuzzies

We received such a kind and special review today!!  It definitely gave me the warm fuzzies...and made me thing "wow do I love my job at Rustic Oaks...!"  I'm honored to share these kind words... 


"The minute we stepped out of our vehicles to tour Rustic Oaks, Adam and I knew that this was the place we were going to become husband and wife. It is a picture perfect venue to host an outdoor, rustic, intimate wedding. Pictures don't even do it justice! We couldn't have asked for a more relaxing day while getting ready in the Inn. The upstairs bridal suite was more than spacious for all the ladies to lounge in for the day. The guys definitely enjoyed their time downstairs in the "man cave" watching TV and shooting pool. Our ceremony was set in the backyard, surrounded by trees and looking out over a serene pond. It was exactly how we wanted to start our married life together. Every one of our wedding guests were entertained during the reception, whether dancing in the barn's loft, relaxing on the barn deck, hanging out by the campfire, playing yard games, taking a stroll down to the river, or just taking in the beautiful scenery everywhere you looked. Last, but not least, Rustic Oaks' owners were more like our family on our wedding day. They were beyond helpful and made every second of our day worry-free. We couldn't have asked for a better experience from the first day of planning to the second we drove away as husband and wife. Thank you Rustic Oaks for making our wedding day everything we imagined and more."

Tuesday, July 31, 2012

OPEN HOUSE!

Join us on Aug. 22nd {4-8pm} for
A RUSTIC INSPIRED OPEN HOUSE!

Spotlight Vendor: Carrie @ Rustic Trunk
Free Food: Courtesy of our generous friends @ Speak Easy
Free Beer & Bevs: From our good friends @ Green Mill
Live Music: Performed by the talented Michael Larson
DJ Services: Mike Fredette
Horse Drawn Carriage Rides: Alpine Carriages
Mary Kay: Tessa Nelson
Photography: Sarah @ Images Off Broadway
Videography: Finley Media Productions
Floral:  Prairie Petals 
Decor: Bliss Events & Weddings
Jewelry: Mariah Lynn Designs
Old Fashion Soda Samples: Old 52 General Store
Vintage Display: Repeat Boutique
Tea & Sweets: The Golden Spoon Traveling Tea Room
Delicious Treats: Love in the Oven Bakery
Lindsay Arneson Creative
And More...!

Bring your family & friends to Rustic Oaks for a night of fun!  Enjoy some free food and beverages, a variety of music, yard games, a campfire, and more!

Contact Emily with questions!
218.343.0347
www.rusticoaks.net - contact tab!

Rustic Oaks
12155 3rd St S
Moorhead, MN 56560

Friday, July 20, 2012

7.7 wedding {kris kandel photography}

A message from the photographer:

"I'm Kris Kandel, I specialize 100% in wedding photography in the Fargo + Minneapolis areas! I adore the confidence that love brings out in people, those brilliant emotions and stories people just have to share. Laughing with couples over a cup of coffee is one of my favorite things! 


I've been photographing weddings for 11 years now, starting in high school when I was an photographer's assistant. When my mentor retired I started my own business in 2004, and moved to the Fargo area in 2008 ... so I've basically started my business twice, lol!


I LOVE Fargo, the wonderful mix of urban and rural possibilities here is unique.  Rustic Oaks has been such a joy to work with! They are very organized (they have to be - often doing 3 weddings in a row on weekends!) and have a great welcoming atmosphere.  The property has so many backdrops, it's easy to get a different look just turning around, which means the wedding day is a breeze from a photography standpoint!"

For more of Kris Kandel's 7.7.12 wedding photos...check out the album on the Rustic Oaks facebook page!  To view more of Kris' work, take a peek at her website and facebook page! 


Kris Kandel
www.kriskandel.com
https://www.facebook.com/KandelPhotography

Thursday, July 19, 2012

Rustic Oaks OPEN HOUSE!

A Rustic-Inspired Open House {4-8pm on Wednesday, Aug. 22nd}

*hosted by Rustic Oaks
*with spotlight vendor Rustic Trunk

*also featuring a variety of vendors who love everything and anything rustic: Old 52 General Store, Prairie Petals, and many more!
*free food/bev/live music

***FREE & open to the public
***Rustic Oaks couples are definitely encouraged to attend; there will be some super fun and unique vendors & goodies for you to check out!

New Rates & Packages!

Our new rates and packages will be starting on Friday, July 27th! 
You have 1 more week to book one of our final few 2013 dates at our 2012 rates! 
Contact Emily with questions/inquiries/bookings!
218.343.0347
www.rusticoaks.net - contact tab!

Wednesday, July 18, 2012

From our 7.7.12 bride!!

"Rustic Oaks was the perfect place for our wedding and the owners and staff made everything so perfect! The space on the property is so beautiful and provided the perfect back drop for our wedding day! Leading up to the wedding, Emily was so responsive and right on the ball with answers to our questions. They were so professional and had an answer for every question we could come up with! Using the house to get ready on our wedding day was so great and it made the day go seamlessly to have everyone at the venue. The ceremony space is so lovely, the reception is picturesque and the barn loft for the dance was amazing! We have gotten so many compliments on Rustic Oaks and many have said it is the most beautiful space for a wedding they have ever seen! Thank you so much to all the staff at Rustic Oaks for making our wedding everything we wanted and more. You all exceeded our expectations in every aspect!"

Tuesday, July 17, 2012

From our 6.9.12 bride...

"Rustic Oaks provided the perfect scenery for the kind of green, vintage inspired rustic wedding my husband and I dreamt of. There is a large yard (where we chose to have our ceremony), a beautiful house (where the entire wedding party stayed), and a large barn (where we had our reception). There is so much to do - a play set for the little ones, a fire pit where we had an impromptu sing along, and wide open space to go for a walk. Despite the anxiety that can accompany a wedding, it was impossible to be nervous at Rustic Oaks. The owners and Emily are such lovely, helpful people. They work tirelessly to make sure that all the bases are covered and that the couple has nothing to worry about. They made our dream wedding a reality."

Wednesday, July 11, 2012

New Packages & Rates!

New 2013 & 2014 rates & packages are coming soon! 
Book now to secure our current rates!

Contact Emily with questions & inquiries!
218.343.0347
www.rusticoaks.net - contact tab!

Monday, July 9, 2012

This made my day...! Enjoy!

We received the sweetest message today...I just had to share it...!!

"Dear Anne, Dave, and Emily,

I would like to let you know what a delightful and perfect wedding day we ALL had at Rustic Oaks! From the beautiful setting of the ceremony to the use of your lovely home and very fun barn and campfire - it was more perfect that we had imagined!  We were made to feel so comfortable and "at home" as we prepared for the day and as we celebrated.

We could not be more happy!

On behalf of the bride and groom, and the Kuehl and Arneson families,

Tracy (mother of the bride)"

New Rates & Packages are coming soon!

{Coming Soon: new 2014 packages & rates!} 

...If you're ready to book your 2014 date now - we will still honor our 2013 rates for the next few days...! 

Contact Emily with questions and inquiries!
rusticoaks@live.com
218.343.0347
www.rusticoaks.net - contact tab!

Friday, May 25, 2012

Friend's Appreciation Night!

Join us on Tuesday, May 29th for our Rustic Oaks Friend's Appreciation Night {7-10pm}!

*Live Music (Steve Johnson & Loy Larson will be performing; they're a super-talented bluegrass duo...and crazy-good musicians...with 30+ years of experience!  There will  be lots of bluegrass, lots of singing, a wide variety of instruments, and even some Irish music mixed in...!)

*Keg Beer & Lemonade
*Food from our good friends @ Green Mill...!!
*Yard Games
*Campfire & S'mores!

Friends, Family & Fans of Rustic Oaks: come join the fun!!

We would love to see you on Tuesday night...to celebrate how much we appreciate the friends, family, and fans of Rustic Oaks...!

Contact Emily with questions!  218.343.0347 or rusticoaks@live.com

Monday, May 21, 2012

Now Available!

Rustic Oaks Redneck Wine Glass: $10
 Rustic Oaks Mason Jar: $5

Are you looking for unique gifts for your bridal party and/or memorable guest favors...? 
Contact Emily with questions, inquiries, and orders!


When Ryan and I got married - we knew we wanted to provide a guest favor that was both practical and reusable; we wanted to give a gift that our guests would actually take home, keep, and use again...so we decided on Rustic Oaks Mason Jars!  And we also liked the fact that mason jars would considerably help reduce the amount of plastic cups and trash!  We labeled each guest's jar with their name...and displayed the following poem:

To help the environment, just a little…
Please follow this catchy mason jar riddle!


Try not to lose your glass, please keep it in sight…
Do your best to reuse and refill your designated jar tonight!
 
Now fill up with free beer and save yourself some cash…And feel extra good drinking, knowing your saving on trash!!

Rustic Oaks Redneck Wine Glass: $10
Rustic Oaks Mason Jar: $5

If you looking for unique gifts for your bridal party and/or memorable guest favors... 
Contact Emily with questions, inquiries, and orders!
218.343.0347
rusticoaks@live.com
www.rusticoaks.net - contact tab!

Wednesday, May 9, 2012

Green Mill: more than just pizza…!

I am still feeling a little full…from Monday!  The owners and I were invited to do a tasting at Green Mill.  We met with Nikki – the Director of Sales and Catering.  Nikki and her crew will be catering one of our upcoming weddings – so she thought it’d be a great idea to give Anne, Dave and me a taste of what she offers our couples.  A free tasting?  Twist my arm.  We agreed – a great idea indeed. 

When we arrived, Nikki brought us back to a quiet part of the restaurant; right away we knew that she was focusing her attention on pleasing and impressing us.  From there, she took us through a typical tasting that she does with brides and grooms.  Nikki started with the linens and dishware – which were nicely displayed at the table adjacent to ours.  Huge bonus: all linens and dishware (I mean everything!) are included with Green Mill’s catering packages.

Next, we moved on to the yummy food!  We had our own personal waitress that started by taking drink orders; she then brought out some fresh baked bread, and a variety of salads.  Before we dug in, Nikki reminded us to “pace ourselves!” 

After the salads and bread we moved on to a round of pastas.  After the pastas…well, we moved on to another round of pastas!  (Side note: I have a very hefty appetite, but at that moment I thought to myself “Nikki was serious about that ‘pace yourself’ comment!”)  After the second round of pastas we got to taste 5 different types of chicken dishes.  After the chicken…we tasted beef…then a variety of side dishes: loaded mashed potatoes, rosemary potatoes, honey glazed carrots, and green beans with toasted almonds! 

And I must add, as each dish was presented – Nikki took time to explain the dish/what was in it/some fun facts about the different flavors/sauces/cooking methods, etc.; she definitely knows her stuff!!

When we were wrapping things up, Nikki asked if we had a favorite dish or two.  I had 7 favorite dishes.  …The pecan craisin spinach salad, (the bread and herb whipped butter was another favorite, but I’m not counting that!)…the chicken and vegetable fettuccine…the pasta pavarotti…the spinach tortelloni…the absolutely vodka chicken…the chicken picatta…and the chicken marsala.  Delicious.  But don’t take my word for it, go visit Nikki and Green Mill!  They most definitely do “more than pizza…!” 

Oh, and speaking of pizza…if you book Green Mill for your wedding – you get free late night pizzas!  Big bonus, right?!  And that’s not all…if you book them for your wedding – and you’re also interested in booking them to cater your groom’s dinner…Nikki offers a nice discount to sweeten the deal!  (For our Wedding Weekend couples – Green Mill can definitely be a one stop shop; they do everything from sandwich platters – boxed lunches and taco bars…to hefty dinner options like pastas - steaks and seafood…they even can host your cash bar!  The options are endless – they can even do omelette bars, chocolate fondue, and much more!)

That tasting had come to an end and although I was stuffed…I was already looking forward to eating the leftovers.  (Yup, anything you don’t finish – they box up for you to take home!)  I had one-very-happy-husband when he came home to a fridge overflowing with Green Mill leftovers…!

Anyways!  I suppose it’s about time for me to wrap things up!  It’s about lunchtime and I have some leftover pasta with my name on it!   

To Nikki & Green Mill Crew: The owners and I want to thank you for the amazing tasting…and the wonderful food and service; you most definitely exceeded our expectations of your catering capabilities…!  We are happy  we found another awesome catering (and bar) option for Rustic Oaks!

To our Rustic Oaks brides and Grooms:  If you haven’t booked a caterer for your wedding or groom’s dinner – I highly recommend scheduling a tasting with Nikki!  Green Mill is a great “one-stop-shop” option…!  And like I said earlier… “A free tasting?”  … “Twist my arm, right!?”

To connect with Nikki...

Cell: 612.718.0529



     


Thursday, April 19, 2012

Update...!

Construction update:  The owners contacted the highway department and they are hoping to be done with the project on 110th Ave. in about 3 weeks.

Also...we ordered a MN State Highway Sign to go on the corner of 75 and 120th Avenue.  It will be readable coming from the North (moorhead) and hopefully in place within a month.

Wednesday, April 18, 2012

Construction on 110th Ave...!

Due to construction, 110th Ave. will be closing this Saturday (4.21.12).  Unfortunately we do not yet know what they are doing...or how long it will take.  We are assuming the DOT will update their "current construction" information once the constructions begins; we will keep you posted as soon as we know more about the project. 

We apologize for any inconvenience that this may cause you or your guests.  During construction please continue to use 120th Ave.

*From I-94, take the Moorhead Hwy 75 Exit
*Go South on Hwy 75 for about 9 miles
*At 120th, take a right
*You will come to a T in the road (3rd St.)
*Take a left on 3rd St
*12155 will be on your right


Don't hesitate to contact me if you have any questions!

Thursday, March 22, 2012

Featured Vendor!

Rustic Oaks: Featured Vendor (THANK YOU Katie Lewis Photography for featuring us!)

Check out Katie's interview with Emily…

How long have you been in business?

We hosted our first wedding on July 24th, 2010; about an hour before the couple arrived, we were pounding the final nail into the back deck! Even though the venue’s owners had been dreaming of creating Rustic Oaks for approximately 30 years, the real transformation (from farmstead to wedding and event venue) truly began in late January of 2010 – only six months prior to the first “I do!”

What got you interested in starting your business?

I wish I could take credit for starting Rustic Oaks – but the vision and inspiration came from Anne and Dave Larson; they deserve all of the credit! However, I am honored to say that I have been part of the Rustic Oaks journey from the beginning! Long story short: My husband and I had both been working for the Larsons at Anytime Fitness; that’s where Ryan and I first met!  In January 2010 we got engaged. After hearing the news of our engagement, Anne and Dave showed us their property (the future home of Rustic Oaks) and offered to host our wedding! We immediately fell in love with the venue and their vision for Rustic Oaks; I also fell in love with the idea of working out there! I figured I had nothing to lose – so days after our first visit to the venue, I presented a job proposal (and invited myself along for the ride)! They’ve been stuck with me ever since…!

What do you feel sets you apart from other venues in the local wedding industry?

Oh wow…where should I start!? We are unique in so many ways! Rustic Oaks is primarily an outdoor venue and I believe the opportunity to celebrate in congruence with nature is truly special. The beauty and serenity of the property make it such a magical (and peaceful) place to get married. Also, we are starting to be recognized as the “home of the weekend wedding.” We rent the whole venue for entire weekend; our couples can do everything in one place: rehearsal and groom’s dinner on Friday…ceremony, reception and dance on Saturday…and gift opening and/or brunch on Sunday; the bridal party and family can stay right on site in the Rustic Oaks Inn! We take pride in event exclusivity and flexibility. Other unique aspects: our beautifully renovated barn, the 900 sq. ft. deck that overlooks the river, pontoon cruises, campfires, the vast amount of prairie and wildflowers, and so much more!

What do you enjoy most about working in the wedding industry?

The people! We work with the most amazing couples and families! We realize that in the wedding industry there are endless options of venues and vendors – so we always feel honored when couples choose Rustic Oaks! The owners and I absolutely love what we do; our work at Rustic Oaks truly brings us joy!

What current trend in weddings are you personally loving the most?

“Greener weddings” and eclectically coordinated décor! I think brides and grooms are starting to be more environmentally mindful (and friendly) when it comes to wedding planning and decorating; I think that is such an awesome trend!

What type of clients do you typically find yourself working with?

Awesome ones! Again, I have to compliment all of our clients, as I truly feel we get to work with some of the most quality and charming couples! I also love the fact that clients are attracted to Rustic Oaks for a variety of reasons; we attract couples that are environmentally friendly, or outdoorsy, or country…we get couples that feel more spiritual when they’re surrounded by nature…we draw interest from clients who want outdoor elegance…we attract clients looking for a venue that’s more simple, relaxed, and serene…and we definitely attract clients that are simply “looking for something unique.”

What should a bride and groom look for and consider when looking at venues?

I believe couples should choose the venue that offers their “must-haves” and that feels the most special, magical, and peaceful; they should seek out an atmosphere that makes them feel joy and happiness! They also should make sure it’s a place that offers them and their guests a lot of fun and flexibility! Finally, I feel that it’s important for couples to choose their venue as a team; both the bride and groom should feel the magic of the venue! And in my opinion, knowing you’ve found the perfect wedding venue – should be a lot like knowing you’re in love – you will just feel it!

Is there anything else we should know about your venue?

After 30+ years, Anne and Dave are finally living their dream of owning a wedding and event venue; I am so blessed (and honored and thankful) to be a part of the journey! We all truly love sharing the magic of Rustic Oaks! And I absolutely love working with so many amazing brides and grooms! I encourage anyone who’s even slightly curious about our venue to get in contact with me; I love chatting on the phone, connecting via email, meeting for coffee, and taking couples on personalized tours! I truly feel that we have something special to offer everyone at Rustic Oaks!

Thank you again {Katie Lewis Photography} for featuring our venue!  We love that you love Rustic Oaks!  And we definitely love your work as well...!!  (To check out more more of Katie's photos...visit her website or facebook page!)

Tuesday, March 13, 2012

IT'S NOT TOO LATE...

TO BOOK A 2012 DATE!!

Check out our final few options:

May 18-20 (our only full weekend left!)
Sunday, July 15th
Friday, Aug. 31st
Sunday, Sept. 9th
Saturday, Sept. 29th (afternoon rental: reduced rate!!)
Friday, Oct. 12th
Sunday, Oct. 14th & 21st

Saturday, March 10, 2012

Battle of the Brides: March Madness!

Greetings 2012 & 2013 Rustic Oaks Brides & Grooms!!


HAPPY MARCH {MADNESS}! :)

For fun - I've created a "Rustic Oaks - Battle of the Brides" group for March Madness!

As a couple, I invite you and your fiance to fill out a free bracket (use the link below - it's super quick & easy if you have a yahoo or gmail acct.) for your chance to win a $25 Redford's Steak & Seafood gift card (1st and 2nd place brackets will both win)! THANK YOU delicious Redfords for providing our prizes! :)

http://tournament.fantasysports.yahoo.com/t1/register/joinprivategroup_assign_team?GID=33811&P=rusticoaks

Group#: 33811
Password: rusticoaks

Cheers,
Emily (Team Finley)

Thursday, March 1, 2012

{**AVAILABLE 2012 DATES**}

May 18-20 (our ONLY full weekend left!)
Friday, Aug. 31st
Sunday, Sept. 9th
Friday, Oct. 12th & 19th
Sunday, Oct. 14th & 21st

Contact Emily if you're interested!
218.343.0347

Monday, February 13, 2012

temporary technical difficulties: contact tab!

greetings friends! we've been recently encountering some difficulties with the "contact" tab on our website! (my apologies!)

if you have sent an inquiry & have not received a personal response from me, please let me know!  (the automated confirmation messages were being sent, but the inquiries were not being delivered to me.)

again, my apologies for the temporary inconvenience! the tab is now up & running again...!!

emily finley
218.343.0347

Thursday, January 26, 2012

September @ Rustic Oaks!


Beautiful photos, right!?  These were taken by the super-talented "Britta The Photographer"...during a mid-September wedding at Rustic Oaks!  And for those of you who are as in love with September weddings as I am...I have good news...September 14-16, 2012 just opened up at Rustic Oaks!  Such a beauty of a weekend! 

And...I have to send a big thank you to: A&Z...and Britta The Photographer - for sharing their lovely photos!  Britta definitely captured the day (and the venue!) to a T!  To see more photos from A&Z's Rustic Oaks (mid-September!) wedding...check out the the Rustic Oaks facebook page...there's a full album of gorgeousness!  (www.facebook.com/rusticoaks!)  To check out more of Britta's work, check out her facebook page: www.facebook.com/britta.the.photographer ...and/or visit her website: http://www.brittathephotographer.com/ ...Cheers!

Monday, January 23, 2012

From Andrea & John...!

"I just have to say that our wedding day would not have been as perfect as it was if it was held anywhere else. I have so many people tell me that our wedding was the most romantic wedding they’ve been to and I know that is because of the location. The venue is already so beautiful I knew I didn’t have to worry much about decorating and I was able to work on the details to really make our wedding day as unique as possible.

The staff at Rustic Oaks were a great help and couldn’t do much more than they did for us. We knew we could trust them in helping us make the day so perfect. Whatever we needed we knew we could email or call Emily and could trust things would get done just the way we wanted.

I am always going to be able to look back on the day and remember how beautiful the day was because of the great pictures we were able to capture. Our photographers had a great area to work with and really got some shots that look amazing because of the background.

Thank you to the staff at Rustic Oaks for making our wedding day to special!"


-Andrea & John {5.21.11} 


*The photo is courtesy of Milestones Photography!






Saturday, January 21, 2012

The Wedding Show 2012!

Join us at the Ramada Plaza Suites - TOMORROW - Sunday, January 22nd from 12:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. at the 2012 Radio Fargo-Moorhead Wedding Show.

Take the opportunity to network with vendors who can offer you their services for your special day & register for the $15,000.00 Bridal Package Grand Prize. And of course, stop by the Rustic Oaks booth; we look forward to seeing you!

*There are 3 style shows scheduled, taking place 1:30, 2:30 & 3:30
*Style shows feature gowns by Affairs by Brittany & tuxes from Carrow’s Tip Top Tux
*Dude Walker Music On Wheels will provide music
*The Grand Prize is valued at over $15,000 for the winning bride
*The grand prize drawing will be at 4:00 p.m.
*THE BRIDE MUST BE PRESENT TO WIN!!
And...There will be a cash bar. :)

Free admission for brides and grooms, friends & family $8.00.

http://www.fargoweddingshow.com/

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

Bride's Choice Award!

Weddings, Wedding Venues
2012 Bride's Choice Awards </P>
<P>Best Wedding Photographers, Wedding Dresses, Wedding Cakes, Wedding Florists, Wedding Planners
 
THANK YOU Rustic Oaks newlyweds and friends, family & fans of the venue...your referrals are the best compliment you can give us! 

About the award:
"The WeddingWire Bride's Choice Awards ™ recognizes the top local wedding professionals from the WeddingWire Network that demonstrate excellence in quality, service, responsiveness and professionalism. Unlike other awards in which winners are selected by the organization, the WeddingWire Bride’s Choice Awards™ are awarded solely based on the reviews from over 1.2 million newlyweds. Awards are determined by a combination of four factors: Overall rating (quality), total number of reviews (quantity), review performance from 2011 (recency), and consistency of reviews from year to year (consistency). This year's recipients represent the top 5% of WeddingWire's vendor community, across all service categories and all regions throughout the US and Canada."

Monday, January 16, 2012

Perfectly Fall...!

Fall is one of my favorite times of year out at Rustic Oaks! I love the colors...the fallen leaves on the ground...the evening's cool air (perfect for a camp fire...and sipping on cider)...!

This past October, T&T's Rustic Oaks reception took place on what I would call "the perfect fall day!" Everything was gorgeous: the weather, the couple, the venue, the decorations...perfection! But don't take my word for it...take a peek at some photos (that totally captured this day the a T!)

This fabulous photo was taken by the super talented Laura Caroon of Frozen Music Studios! More photos from T&T's wedding can be found on the Rustic Oaks facebook page! Check out more of Laura's work on her website or facebook!

Friday, January 6, 2012

2012: available dates...

May 4-6 & 18-20
Sunday, September 2nd (Labor Day Weekend)
Sunday, September 9th
Oct. 12th (Friday), 14th (Sunday), 19th (Friday), & 21st (Sunday)

We also have a NEW Sunday afternoon rental option: for the bride/groom on a budget - looking for something simple & sweet!

Discounted Rates are available for:
May 13th & 27th
June 3rd, 10th & 17th
July 1st & 29th
August 5th, 12th & 26th
September 16th & 23rd
October 7th & 28th

Contact Emily for more information!!
218.343.0347
www.rusticoaks.net (contact us)

Monday, January 2, 2012

NEW 2012 DATES just opened!

Two prime 2012 dates -
this Labor Day Weekend - 
just opened up:
Friday, August 31 & Sunday, September 2nd!
Call, Text, Email, or send an online inquiry if interested!

Other great dates:
September 9th
May 4-6 & 18-20
Oct. 12 & 14, 19 & 21, and 26-28

Or...are you looking for something short & sweet? 
Ask about our super-affordable Sunday afternoon rates!