About the Lafayette Club
The Lafayette Club is a stunning Spanish-style private country club on the shore of Lake Minnetonka.
Located in Minnetonka Beach, Minnesota, this historic wedding venue is just 25 minutes west of Minneapolis. It is one of the most memorable event spaces in the Twin Cities area. As a result, couples absolutely love getting married here.
Quick Facts About the Lafayette Club
Location: 2800 Northview Rd, Minnetonka Beach, MN 55361
Type of venue: Historic lakefront country club and event space
Capacity: Up to 300+ for ceremonies, up to 550 for receptions
Indoor/Outdoor: Both options available
Vibe: Romantic, historic, elegant, lakefront, Spanish-style
Website:Lafayette Club
The history of Lafayette Club as a Wedding venue
Lafayette Club has been around for a long time, and you can feel that the second you step onto the property. It originally started in 1882 as a hotel built by James J. Hill, which already gives you a sense of how rooted it is in Minnesota history.
The building itself has gone through a lot over the years. It was rebuilt more than once after fires in the late 1800s and early 1900s, but each time it came back as a place for people to gather, celebrate, and spend time together. That part has stayed consistent, which I love.
A true Minnetonka Lake landmark
Lafayette’s current clubhouse that stands today was built in 1925, and it still carries that classic, timeless feel. The Spanish-style architecture, the way it sits right on the lake, it all feels romantic without trying too hard.
There’s something about photographing a wedding in a place like this that just hits differently. You’re not just in a pretty venue, you’re in a space that has held so many moments over time. It adds a layer to the day that you can actually feel, not just see.
As a Minnesota wedding photographer, I truly enjoy learning about the venue’s roots. There is something special about knowing the history.
Getting married at Lafayette Club in MN
Your wedding photos become part of the Lafayette Club’s story too. The architecture and landscape are such a beautiful backdrop ! Every portrait taken in front of the lake carries a little extra magic.
Why Couples Love the Lafayette Club
The Lafayette is especially perfect for couples who:
- Are lake lovers and want a true Minnesota lake experience
- Care about aesthetics and thoughtful design details
- Love the idea of a lakefront wedding without leaving the Twin Cities
- Want something that feels classic and elevated, but still relaxed and fun
- Care about beautiful light and a setting that doesn’t need a lot added to it
- Want their guests to actually enjoy the flow of the day
- Appreciate a place that feels timeless.
If you love the idea of a refined lakefront setting, beautiful natural light, and a wedding day that feels effortless from start to finish, Lafayette Club is a really strong choice.
Why I love photographing weddings at Lafayette Club
In front of Lake Minnetonka, especially with the sun starting to set, everything just glows. It’s one of those places where you don’t have to force anything. The white doors, the lake, the way the light moves through the space, it all works together so effortlessly. Every time I photograph a wedding here, it genuinely feels like a gift.
The light here is beautiful all day, which is not something every venue can say. In the morning, the bridal suite fills with soft, even light that makes getting ready feel calm and easy. By the time golden hour hits, the lake turns warm and glowy in that way that just makes everything feel a little more magical.
Even in the middle of the day, there are so many good options. The gardens and trees give you open shade, and the veranda has that soft, diffused light that always photographs well. No matter what your timeline looks like, we can always find really beautiful light for your photos.
Lafayette Club Wedding Gallery
View more photos from this joyful wedding at the Lafayette Club Wedding here: Fall Wedding at Lafayette Club in Minnetonka
Portrait Locations
There are so many spots for portraits at Lafayette Club, and honestly, it’s one of those venues where you don’t have to try too hard to find something beautiful. The lakefront is the obvious favorite for a reason, but the gardens, the architecture of the front of the building, and the veranda all give you completely different looks without going far.
I always encourage couples to set aside a little intentional time for portraits. Even just 10 minutes around sunset changes everything. The light by the lake gets really soft and warm, and it’s one of those moments in the day where things slow down in the best way.
Getting ready spaces at Lafayette Club
The getting ready space here is actually really nice, which is not always the case at every venue. It feels calm, spacious, and set up in a way that makes the morning feel easy instead of chaotic.
There are multiple mirrors and vanity stations, space to spread out, and even a small kitchenette for snacks and drinks. The deck overlooking the lake is one of my favorite little bonuses. It’s such a good spot to step outside, breathe for a second, and take it all in before everything starts.
The Main Ballroom
The main ballroom is big and bright, with those classic huge chandeliers and hardwood floors that reflect light really beautifully. It can hold a large guest count, but it still feels elegant and not overwhelming.
There’s also the enclosed veranda overlooking the lake, which adds a lot of dimension to the space. I love photographing in here because the light shifts throughout the day and gives you different moods without needing to move locations.
The Crystal Bay Garden Ceremony
The outdoor ceremony space is right by the water and feels really peaceful and tucked away. It has that kind of quiet, romantic energy that doesn’t need much added to it.
The natural light here is beautiful, especially earlier in the day, and the lake with the trees in the background creates a setting that feels both open and intimate at the same time. It’s one of those spots where you don’t have to overthink it, it just works.
The Lakeside Experience
What really makes Lafayette Club stand out is how connected everything feels to the lake. Guests can move through the space easily, from the ceremony to cocktail hour to the reception, without it ever feeling disjointed.
Cocktail hour outside by the water is always a highlight. There’s usually a breeze coming off the lake, people are relaxed, and it creates that kind of atmosphere where everyone is just genuinely enjoying themselves. Those are some of my favorite moments to capture.
The Lakeview Room
In addition to the main ballroom, there’s also the Lakeview Room, which has large windows facing the water and a deck attached to it.
The deck is perfect for cocktails, especially at sunset. People naturally gather out there, drinks in hand, watching the light change over the lake. It’s one of those spots where candid moments just happen without forcing anything.
Reception Lighting and Photo Opportunities
One of the things I love about this venue is that it photographs well all day. During the day, there’s plenty of natural light coming in. At night, the chandeliers bring in that warm, romantic glow without feeling too dark.
There are also so many little corners that work for quick portraits during the reception. The doors, the veranda, the lake just steps away. It gives us options without interrupting the flow of your night, which is always the goal.
Things to Know Before You Book
- It’s one of the prettiest lakefront venues in the Twin Cities
Between the water views and the classic architecture, it photographs beautifully in every season but especially in fall when everything turns warm and golden. - Sunset is everything here
The light over the lake at sunset is unreal. If photos matter to you, I’d plan your timeline so you can step out for 10–15 minutes around sunset. It makes a huge difference. - The space flows really well for a relaxed day
Everything being in one place helps the day feel calm instead of rushed, which honestly shows in your photos. - Winter weddings get cozy (in the best way)
Think warm tones, candlelight, and that slightly crisp air. - It’s a popular venue—book early
Especially for peak dates. If you’re considering it, it’s worth reaching out sooner rather than later.
Click here to see other amazing Minneapolis Wedding Venues.
Lafayette Club Map
Things to Know Before You Book
Frequently Asked Questions About the Lafayette Club
Do I have to be a member of the Club to have a wedding there?
No! You do not need to be a Lafayette Club member to host your wedding or event. The venue welcomes outside couples for weddings and special celebrations.
Can we choose our own caterer for our wedding?
The venue offers their own fantastic in-house catering. An Executive Chef will meet with you to arrange a custom menu. As a result, the food always matches the elegance of the space perfectly.
Can my guests stay at the hotel?
Yes! The Club has 17 hotel rooms available for overnight stays. Your family and friends can stay right on the property. This is especially wonderful for out of town guests. It also makes the morning after brunch so easy!
How far is the Lafayette Club from the cities?
Located on the shore of Lake Minnetonka, the Lafayette Club is just 25 minutes west of Minneapolis. The scenic drive is absolutely beautiful, especially in summer and fall.
The Lafayette Club is located at 2800 Northview Rd, Minnetonka Beach, MN 55361
Minnesota wedding photography at Lafayette Club
As a Minnesota wedding photographer, I find so much joy in documenting love stories at the Lafayette Club. The combination of history, natural beauty, and elegant spaces makes every wedding here truly special.
I capture authentic, candid moments full of emotion on your day. I also guide you to the most natural portraits possible. These become the images that will last forever.
If you are planning a Lafayette Club wedding, I would love to hear your story. Contact me to start the conversation!
Click here to see other unique Minnesota Wedding Venues.
