When Explore Minnesota, in partnership with Passion Passport, announced a contest with the prize being a 10-day trip to Minnesota, I knew right away who I had to encourage to apply! I had met my friend Emily on Instagram about a year ago. I had also met her in person in February at the opening of the Mobile Photography Exhibit at the Columbus Museum of Art in Ohio. We had so much fun in Ohio that she said she wanted to come visit in August! This was a perfect opportunity! The stars (preferably Northern Lights) were aligned! 

Emily wrote a wonderful essay and it was no surprise to anyone when Explore Minnesota announced that she was the winner! She was to be flown from her home in Philadelphia to here in Minneapolis, given a car, hotels and a small allowance to travel our state for 10 days! For the first half of her trip Emily traveled with her mom.

After her mom left, Emily spent a night at our home. My husband, kids and dog adored her! The next day Emily and I set off for a 4 day adventure up to the North Shore. I was so excited - I rarely go places with the sole intention of working on my photography - so I filled her rental car with props and dresses and cut-out hearts and off we went! 

We saw so many beautiful areas in Minnesota. We went all the way up to Grand Marais, where we discovered an old airport runway and so many colorful facades. We rode the Alpine Roller Coaster at Lutsen. We cooled off along the shores of Lake Superior. A true adventure. We had a blast! Thank you Emily and Explore Minnesota!

Here are some photos from the trip❤️