the sexy bride and groom, ami Voeltz and Andy Schakel

vegnews
april 2006

• ami Voeltz and Andy Schakel
• Aug 27, 2005
• Minneapolis
• 110 Guests
• Honeymoon: Mitchell Lake, Minn

Wedding Day Highlights
Not only was Ami and Andy’s wedding vegan, it was also a nearly zero-waste event—a "green" wedding planned with the environment in mind. They used 100 percent post-consumer recycled paper for the invitations, offered drinks in biodegradable cups and encouraged guests to walk to the ceremony site—an open space in a state park along the bluffs of the St. Croix River. The flowers, ivy and other décor were native plants from a local farmer which were later dried and put on the thank-you cards. They wore clothing that they would wear again, and in lieu of a standard wedding party, their immediate family walked down the aisle with them. Instead of traditional gifts, Ami and Andy asked guests to donate to an animal shelter or towards a handmade canoe they wanted. The organic, local, vegan food at the reception was enjoyed by all. As one friend commented, "I never thought a vegan dinner could be this amazing! Thank you for the experience."

Their Story
Ami and Andy met through mutual friends at an '80s-style dance party. Ever since their first kiss in the dorm courtyard with friends cheering them on from a second floor dorm window, they have taught each other new ways of living and have grown into a conscious, healthy, active vegan couple who believe strongly in living out their values. Through their work they try to promote these beliefs in hope that others will understand the importance of living consciously.

Menu
Hors d'oeuvres

• Vegetarian Nori Rolls
• Savory Mushroom Pâté with Pistachio Canapés
• Sweet Pepper Pomegranate Dip on Pita Chips

Dinner

• Organic Mixed-Greens Salad in a Balsamic Vinaigrette
• Freshly Baked Breads and Olive Oil
• Rice, Almond and Vegetable Croquette Topped with Cranberry Fruit Chutney
• Tomato-Basil Salad
• Marinated Corn Salad
• New Potato Salad in a Fresh Herb Dressing
• Steamed Green Beans

Wedding Cakes

• Double Chocolate Raspberry-filled Cake with Cocoa Frosting
• Vanilla Blackberry-filled Cake with French