Iowa Wedding Ideas and Inspiration

Citrus-Inspired Summer Wedding in the Gardens of Salisbury Mansion

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[field title=”Wedding Colors”]Pastel shades of pinks and blues with lush orchids and roses with citrus notes accompanied by lots of fresh florals and greenery.[/field]
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Welcome to an enchanted wedding nestled in the gardens of Salisbury Mansion, located in the heart of Des Moines, Iowa. This historic home & gardens lent the perfect backdrop to Amelia & Sterling’s elegant and chic garden party inspired wedding. Following their ceremony in the gardens, guests dined under string lights & greenery in a tent across the lawn. After toasts, guests moved to the brick courtyard for dancing under the stars. The band kept the party going all night long!

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]Sterling and I met in Washington, DC where I work. He was visiting his sister who was also my friend! We had an intimate get together in our home with friends when he entered the room. We immediately locked eyes. He was the only man there so I quickly asked if he would like a bowl of my homemade soup to make him feel welcome. The rest is history! He invited me up to his home of Kodiak Island, Alaska where I spent time on his vessel that he captains on the ocean. We fell deeper in love. The next year, he proposed in front of a glacier in the remote waters of Alaska on jet skis.
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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]The bride’s dress was a classic showstopper, complete with a high neck and lace detail on the sleeves and bodice.[/field]
[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]Amelia’s bridesmaids each wore a color that suited them best, in various shades of pastels. [/field]
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[field title=”Food & Drink”]Once the overall design details were completed, we couldn’t forget about the food and drinks! None of our guests left hungry. Our mocktail
hour menu included hand crafted mocktails, and a long charcuterie grazing table. The selection of passed hors-d’oeuvres included jumbo gulf coast shrimp, fresh bruschetta on crostini and more!

The outdoor tent reception was under the Iowa moon light with a plated meal with the options of chicken amaggio with a lemon cream sauce, beef tenderloin with a cabernet reduction, and of course per Alaskan tradition, Baked Salmon . In addition, the first course included Arancia Insalata with pine nuts and the sides were, Green Beans Almandine and a Potato Croquette.[/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]The first question in the planning process was, where were we to have the wedding? We thought about a mountain in Alaska and my family’s generational farm in Iowa but we ultimately chose the most enchanting European style house and gardens in the heart of Iowa’s Capitol, Salisbury House and Gardens. The mansion was built in the 1920s and was inspired by The King’s House in Salisbury, England, blending Tudor, Carolean, and Gothic architectural details. I knew it would be a unique destination for guests from Washington DC, Alaska and Iowa to fawn over.

We wanted our guests to feel loved and seen in our intimate garden party, all meticulously designed by Honey and Joy Events. It was a large gathering yet everyone felt that it was a thoughtful wedding day. We wanted the day to be high energy yet laid back. The string quartet for the ceremony and the live band for the reception were perfect!

My next thought was colors, keeping the European garden theme in mind led me to choose pastels and colorful flowers. These included lush roses, and pink orchids. In addition, each table had bright citrus elements.
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[field title=”Wedding Cake”]The whimsical 3 tiered cake was created by a local pastry chef Alix Brower of Dore Bakery, a bespoke bakery with meticulous creations. The desserts had a French influence with macarons, mini fruit tarts and for an Iowa classic, a local ice cream truck.
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[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]I wanted to be sure to include our grandparents who had passed away. We had folded flags for our grandfathers who were veterans and white roses for our grandmothers on chairs in the front row.

My nephew was the ring bearer and he carried my grandfather’s personal Bible he kept close to him as a soldier and prisoner of war during the Korean War.

Family is very important to me. I was so pleased to have my entire family including my 7 nieces and nephews involved in the wedding as junior groomsmen and bridesmaids.

Since Christ is the center of our marriage, I chose to walk down the long cobblestone isle surrounded by the lush gardens to “Be Thou My Vision” with a string quartet. My husband and I partook in communion using my late grandmother’s glass chalice and antique plate. The gospel message was made clear by our pastor in the ceremony along with scripture reading. [/field]
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This Romantic Ceremony Decor Was Hand-Built by the Groom

Romantic florals and organic greenery played a huge part in the design of this Iowa farm wedding. From green crowns worn by the bridesmaids to large, organic bouquets and a hanging installation over the reception tables, Shelly Sarver infused every inch with floral magic. Also at the top of the romance list? The fact that the ceremony cross that this couple said I Do in front of was hand-built by the groom. See the full day captured beautifully by Mustard Seed Photography right here.

From the bride, Terrell… One of the most special elements of the wedding was the cross that we had our ceremony in front of. My now-husband built and designed the cross himself. It added such a special touch and will forever be a little piece of our wedding that we will always have. Our goal was for our wedding to showcase both beauty and love. Our hearts were exploding not only with our own love, but with the love from our family and friends enjoying our day with us. It was so touching to see our parents’ raw emotions during the ceremony – we knew that we had made them proud, but they will never truly know how thankful and proud we are to call them our parents.

In regards to design, I knew I wanted to have lighting be a key element! I went back and forth on trying to figure out how to hang chandeliers or other types of lighting but ultimately realized that it was just difficult to do that with the different venues that we looked at. Thankfully Taylor from White Willow Events came to me about building a lighting structure over the head table. I was hesitant at first as our head table was 24 feet long down the center of the room. I have to say it was everything I could have imagined and more! I know it can be hard to add chandeliers and hang stuff from the ceilings so I think this was a great idea for brides who want to add a showcase piece!

Another key element that mattered to us in the design was florals! I think they are such a huge part of bringing the overall vision of a wedding together. I wanted very large organic bouquets, so I focused on that as one of the key elements of bringing the design together. Every meeting I had with Shelly, our florist, she was able to capture my vision even when I was unsure about some of the elements. It was a huge relief knowing that I had her and could put my trust in her to design the flowers and just kind of let her do her thing!

My dress was from Hayley Paige – I have always loved her gowns so actually wearing one on my own wedding day was a dream come true! Paired with the nude bridesmaid gown’s and organic florals, it all came together so perfectly! My husband loved the dress and was so surprised during our first look! That was one of our favorite moments from the day – in addition to seeing one another, we also read personal vows to each other in a more secluded setting. We are both such shy people, it gave us a quiet moment just to ourselves and helped us remember the true purpose of the day!

The All-Inclusive Venue You HAVE to Meet

If you’re worried that choosing an all-inclusive venue will send you down the path to a cookie cutter wedding: don’t be. Trust us – you can have that glam celebration you’ve always wanted with all of the convenience an all-in-one location has to offer. Need proof? Check out The Westin Kansas City at Crown Center – they can handle it all.

Choosing an all-inclusive venue doesn’t have to mean giving up higher-end options like high-quality invitations, gorgeous linens and stunning table settings. With Hallmark Weddings at The Westin Kansas City at Crown Center, you’ll be working with a team of talented wedding pros that know how to handle everything, right down to setting up room blocks for all of your loved ones. We’re super impressed with their unique wedding packages – which start with a luxe venue of your choosing and touch on everything from customized menus to makeup + salon time to invites from the Halls Department Store.

Wedding planning shouldn’t be stressful. So if you find yourself struggling with finding the right florist or musician, need help with choosing the perfect pre-wedding event outfits or just want to make sure your guests are completely taken care of, contact The Westin Kansas City at Crown Center to talk all things Hallmark Weddings. You’ll even earn perks on every guest room booked.

Your Key To the Perfect Bridal Shower or Bachelorette Party Weekend

Sure, wedding planning is time-consuming, but don’t let all of those other all-too-important events fall to the wayside. Your bridal shower, bachelorette party and honeymoon are meant to be awesome, and that means throwing on your best heels and finding a space that will totally accommodate you and the ones you love. Get inspired (and find the perfect locale) below.

Finding the ultimate spot to host all of those “other” events may seem a little daunting, but The Westin Kansas City at Crown Center makes it sooo easy with oversized rooms that are totally luxurious AND undergoing a fab renovation that will be completed in 2018. Yep, your fave hotel in Crown Center will be even better, with plenty of space for hosting that bridal shower or bachelorette party. We’re obsessed with their convenient locale for any last-minute shopping and their easy access to airport travel. Not to mention their Bridal Suites are perfect for morning-of festivities, so you can relax with your besties before you walk down the aisle. (Champagne optional.)

When it comes to making it simple for you and your guests, The Westin Kansas City at Crown Center most definitely delivers. Host your entire wedding weekend at the hotel, or set aside room blocks for your off-site celebration. Trust us, you’ll love the beautiful rooms (we mentioned they were renovated, right?) and easy access to dining, shopping and nightlife. Oh, and don’t forget your honeymoon and check out the romantic suites with stunning views.

Contact The Westin Kansas City at Crown Center today to guarantee that every last part of your celebration is in place.

9 Wedding Locations You Havent Heard About Yet

We know that finding the perfect wedding venue isn’t always easy, especially if you’re looking for something that totally speaks to you and yours. So today we’re running through a list of nine (yes, NINE) fab venues we absolutely love, so you can find that dream locale. Scroll for some hidden gems you haven’t even heard of.

THE ST. REGIS WASHINGTON, D.C.

Why we love it: Just steps from the White House, The St. Regis Washington, D.C. is the perfect mix of luxe accommodations and upscale wedding offerings – all with a dash of historical charm. You can opt for a cocktail hour in the Italianate revival lobby, or celebrate your “I do’s” in the Astor Ballroom with its hand-stenciled ceiling (an original 1926 decorative feature) and Palladian windows overlooking The Astor Terrace. This place is beautiful, you guys – and it’s no wonder it continues to be named the “Best Hotel for Small Weddings” by Washington Magazine. It’s just that good.

What you can’t miss: The Astor Terrace. Perfect for ceremonies OR receptions, this gem of an outdoor space features a dreamy fountain. Need we say more?

W SCOTTSDALE

Why we love it: Located smack-dab in the middle of Scottsdale’s Entertainment District, W Scottsdale is every modern lovin’ bride’s dream. Think totally chic contemporary spaces (both indoor and outdoor) perfect for celebrating your Big Day, plus amazing accommodations that will make your entire wedding weekend.

What you can’t miss: Their fab W Insider service. It’s concierge plus some with everything you’ll ever need just a push of a button away. Whatever you want, whenever you want it.

LE MÉRIDIEN DELFINA SANTA MONICA

Why we love it: Situated just three blocks from the ocean with great access and breathtaking views, plus offering up some awesome amenities for guests (hey there, Bicycle Programme), Le Méridien Delfina Santa Monica seamlessly combines a glam spot to say “I do” with all of that laid-back Southern Cali charm we love so much. We’re obsessed with their Pool Terrace receptions, not to mention their chef-inspired catering menus and views of the Pacific Ocean.

What you can’t miss: Their venues. From the Delfina Ballroom to the Terrazza Garden, Le Méridien Delfina Santa Monica has you covered when it comes to celebrating in style.

HOTEL COLONNADE CORAL GABLES, A TRIBUTE PORTFOLIO HOTEL

Why we love it: Ideal for those travel lovers who want to say “I do” in complete luxury, the Hotel Colonnade Coral Gables has elegant weddings (and accommodations) down to an absolute science. From their 23,000 square feet of event space to their gorgeous venue options (hello, marble-tiled rotunda) to their talented staff that knows everything there is to know about throwing the perfect wedding, you’ll most definitely be making a statement.

What you can’t miss: Their Make a Green Choice Program. Guests receive a $5 food credit or 500 SPG points just for making the choice to conserve natural resources in their room. We love that.

THE WESTIN CHICAGO NORTHWEST

Why we love it: It’s hard not to fall in love with a setting as pretty as Hamilton Lake and when you add in a climate-controlled tent and fully-renovated guest rooms, you have yourselves one of the prettiest wedding locales in all of Chicago. Plus, the Westin Chicago Northwest also offers up a plethora of indoor + outdoor venue options, customizable menus AND your very own wedding specialist.

What you can’t miss: Their 24-hour room service. (Enough said.)

SHERATON SAN DIEGO HOTEL & MARINA

Why we love it: You honestly can’t go wrong with a San Diego wedding, and the Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina is the epitome of a perfect SoCal soiree with a gorgeous seaside location and deluxe amenities. Now add in a stunning garden ceremony spot (with marina views) and indoor venue options that are just as cool and you have the perfect place to say “I do.”

What you can’t miss: The Culinary team. They’ve been named “Best Caterer” by San Diego Magazine for 15 years running. Yum.

THE EQUINOX, A LUXURY COLLECTION GOLF RESORT & SPA, VERMONT

Why we love it: You know we can never get enough of Vermont weddings and if you’re looking for the perfect destination spot: this is it. From their three unique venues (Pond Pavilion, Colonnade Ballroom and Meadow House) to the amazing views of the Equinox Mountain and the Taconic Mountain Ridge, The Equinox Resort has everything you’ll ever need for that dream wedding… AND can accommodate anywhere from 80 to 250 guests.

What you can’t miss: The activities. This four-season resort offers up a world of fun-filled adventures, from golfing to skiing to fishing to snowshoeing – and that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

THE ST. ANTHONY, A LUXURY COLLECTION HOTEL, SAN ANTONIO

Why we love it: Four words: Open-air rooftop ballroom. Yep, you can literally dance the night away under the stars. Plus, the St. Anthony has been hosting weddings for over a century, so you know you’re in good hands with their talented staff of event professionals. From their gorgeous rooms to their convenient downtown locale, you won’t be missing a thing.

What you can’t miss: The details. From crystal chandeliers to a winding staircase to theatrical lighting and a 19th Century French tapestry, get ready for some non-stop oohing and ahhing.

THE WESTIN GALLERIA & OAKS HOUSTON

Why we love it: If you’re having a celebration with a lot of out-of-town guests, you can’t pick a locale better than the Westin Galleria & Oaks Houston. Its Uptown location paired with its amazing guest amenities and reception space for up to 1,000 makes it the ideal location for those looking to explore the Galleria neighborhood of Houston. Think shopping, dining and spa-ing the days away. It’s perfect.

What you can’t miss: The Monarch Ballroom. With floor-to-ceiling windows and views of the city, this 24th floor gem is a reception dreamland.

Visit SPG Weddings to find out even more about these hidden gems AND all of the amazing perks of having an SPG Wedding. You can thank us later, friends.

Why a Bridal Brunch Is a Good Idea

It’s likely that your friends and family are traveling from all over to celebrate at your wedding with you and your soon-to-be spouse, so we’re always fans of fun ways to spend more time with your loved ones during the wedding weekend. This oh-so-pretty, pre-wedding bridal brunch at Magnolia Wine Kitchen, where Shelly Sarver added her special touch to the space with pink floral arrangements, is a perfect example of a fun yet low-stress way to get all of the ladies together. If you love the idea of a bridal brunch as much as we do, head to the gallery to see all the photos by Aly Carroll.

From Aly Carroll Photography… The day before Sarah and Justin said “I do”, Sarah’s family showered her with love and attention at her Southern inspired bridal brunch. Her family traveled near and far for her big day, so it was the perfect opportunity to get all the ladies together and enjoy each other’s company! Shelly Sarver Designs decorated and adorned Magnolia Wine Kitchen with her gorgeous creations, including ombre center pieces, floral chair accents, and a balloon garland to greet the guests as they headed to the dining table upstairs. Magnolia’s details paired perfectly with the theme and style of the lunch. They served a light lunch and a signature bridal drink. It was an afternoon to remember!

Photography: Aly Carroll Photography | Floral Design: Shelly Sarver | Catering: Magnolia Wine Kitchen | Venue: Magnolia Wine Kitchen | Film Processing: Richard Photo Lab

Looking for a unique space to tie the knot? We found it.

Let’s be honest, no one wants a cookie cutter wedding. But if finding a venue that is the perfect mix of luxe accommodations and totally unique wedding space has left you a little frustrated, we’re here to help. Because today we’re hosting a little meet and greet with The Westin Kansas City at Crown Center, a hotel that has everything you’re searching for. Find your dream space below.

Situated in the center of downtown Kansas City, The Westin Kansas City at Crown Center is the type of venue that just makes sense. Surrounded by Hallmark’s Crown Center and more than 85 acres of fabulous shopping, yummy restaurants and entertaining theaters, it’s the perfect spot to spend a weekend with your nearest and dearest, celebrating your big moment. But what really stands out about The Westin Kansas City at Crown Center is the amazing venue options. From sophisticated ballrooms, to the gorgeous panoramic views from The American, to the elegant rooftop locale known as the Games Deck, each venue will truly stun your guests. Which means saying goodbye to a generic, cookie-cutter wedding and hello to an awe-inspiring soiree for the ages. Just like you want.

Ready to host the wedding of the century at a hotel that knows everything there is to know about glamorous nuptials that are as unique as you and your love? Contact The Westin Kansas City at Crown Center today to start planning your dream day. With a talented team of wedding specialists, an amazing downtown location and accommodations that are the definition of luxurious, you honestly can’t go wrong. Oh, and don’t forget to ask about their Hallmark Wedding Packages, because, well… they’re awesome. Happy planning, loves!

Meet Your One-Stop Shop for the Wedding of a Lifetime (Hint: It’s Amazing)

We all know Hallmark as THE place to go for greeting cards + gifts for every occasion. But take Hallmark’s knack for making every moment special and combine it with The Westin Kansas City at Crown Center and the results are pure magic. We’re talking beyond luxurious details, amazing accommodations and an all-inclusive wedding destination in Kansas City. This, loves, is how you say “I do” in style. Scroll to learn so much more about Hallmark Weddings.

When it comes to planning your Big Day, narrowing down the perfect venue isn’t always easy. Until now. That’s because with Hallmark Weddings at The Westin Kansas City at Crown Center, you can host your engagement party, rehearsal dinner, ceremony AND reception all in the same locale. Which means saying “goodbye” to a year of stressful planning and “hello” to an easy, streamlined experience with Hallmark’s Wedding Specialists. Think totally unique celebration packages with everything from customized menus, makeup + salon services, spa time and wedding registry + invitations provided by Halls Department Store. They can even help you with your engagement + wedding rings, bridal party gifts, suits, tailoring AND accessories for the Big Day. It’s literally a one-stop shop for everything you’ll ever need, all wrapped up in pretty, pretty packaging. Oh, and did I mention you and your guests will be staying at The Westin Kansas City at Crown Center? Amazing.

Contact Hallmark Weddings today to begin working with the talented team of wedding pros that will take your day to the next level… and then some. You’ll receive a complimentary consultation with a sales manager, your very own online portal and complimentary gift packaging + delivery in Kansas City. You’ll even receive a 15% off registry completion discount, a $100 gift card and your very own registry from Halls Department Store. And, obviously you’ll want to check out Hallmark for all things paper goods, like your Save the Dates, wedding invites and day-of stationery. They can even help you with gifts for your guests and bridal party. Contact a Hallmark Wedding Specialist for all of the info at (816) 391-4410 or email hallmarkweddings@starwoodhotels. This is so awesome, you guys.

Select The Westin Kansas City at Crown Center as your wedding destination and you’ll receive special rewards and bonus Starpoints® which can be used immediately towards honeymoon nights including:

Up to 100,000 bonus Starpoints®*.
Overnight guestroom or suite accommodations for bridal couple on wedding night.
Sparkling toast during the wedding reception.

*Valid on weddings reserved this year and hosted by December 31, 2018. If you have 10 guests or more visiting from out of town, their stays will also earn you both additional Starpoints, redeemable for your honeymoon.

Venue: Westin Kansas City At Crown Center

A Cubs Themed Wedding Just Before the World Series Win!

If you ask us, Ellyse and Matt’s wedding day was the Cubs’ good luck charm. Just months before the World Series win these two threw an epic Chicago Cubs-themed wedding set at Iowa’s famous Field of Dreams. They officially made baseball weddings chic and captured that, “can’t eat, can’t sleep, reach for the stars, over the fence, world series kind of love.” Jenni O photographed, Oceanwide Studios filmed and you can head to The Vault for every last detail.

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The Happily Ever After

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From the Jenni O Photography… Ellyse and Matt are two huge baseball fans! They were married in their tiny town of Dyersville, Iowa. If you don’t recognize that town check out the Kevin Costner film Field of Dreams I have never seen such a detailed wedding! From the getting ready outfits to the concession stand, the reception on the out field, the programs. All the amazing details pale in comparison to the love these two have for each other and their kids.

Ellyse wore her mother’s dress for the ceremony, then at the reception she changed and surprised Matt in his mother’s dress who passed away a few years ago. I don’t know if I’ve ever cried that hard during a wedding. It was one of the most beautiful moments I have ever had the honor to be a part of. The speeches all took place before the reception right out on the field. Ellyse’s siblings sung a song they wrote with Ellyse that went “Take me out to the wedding, take me out with the crowd. Ellyse found a guy that will cut her some slack. Matt you should know that there are no give backs. So it’s root, root, root for the Ungs cause they got married today. For its 1, 2, probably 3 kids they’ll have. A new team is on its way.”

GO CUBS! And Congrats, Matt and Ellyse!

This Beachy Inspo Sesh Will Make Your Hearts Happy

It’s amazing how something as simple as the wind can inspire sooo much pretty. Like this romance-filled inspo sesh from a team of vendors that knows everything about throwing a breathtaking wedding – from the beautiful gowns from Jenny Yoo + BHLDN to the breathtaking florals from Studio Bloom to the styling + photography prowess of Ivory + Bliss. Head to THE VAULT to start pinning your hearts out. This one’s a must see.

From Ivory + Bliss… Romance. What is romance? Is it the act of sending a love letter, flowers on the table when we get home, or is it a feeling? Is it something you can’t see or touch, but something that you feel in the depth of your heart, in your whole body… Is it like the wind? These brief moments where our heart is full of love… it comes and goes, for if it was always there, it wouldn’t be so special when we feel it.

This shoot was dreamt up on a day where I was shooting a session on a windy beach back home. Her dress was flowing, the wind was in her hair, and I was waiting on all of these beautiful moments that I had no control over. I wanted to style a shoot to inspired by this anticipation. These beautiful moments we can’t plan, we don’t foresee, we just feel.

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Take a Stylish Cue from This Bride and Rock a Topknot

We’re calling it, Bride’s everywhere will be rocking a topknot in 2016. Take this Parisian garden party celebration as proof. Captured by the talented Jeff Sampson Photography this is one stylish celebration that you won’t want to miss. See it all elegantly unfold in The Vault!

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From the Bride… Tony and I met at our first job at a local supermarket in Orange City IA in 2007 when we were both 16. Within a month of working there we started dating and have been together ever since! After 7 years of being together we were ready to plan our big day.On October 18, 2014 he proposed with a kitten. The kitten had a collar around it’s neck that read, “Will You Marry Me”. How could I resist that?! Of course, I said yes! We named him Norman and he is the sweetest most lovable cat! It was the best proposal I could have asked for.

My mom, sister, and I have owned Chrysalis Bridal Salon in Orange City, IA for the past 5 years so it was so exciting to finally plan a wedding that was my own! After going through the process of being engaged and getting married I feel like a have a better understanding of what our customers are actually going through. Since we own a bridal shop, my wedding dress options were endless. I actually picked my dress from a picture from one of brands we carried (Maggie Sottero) and never tried it on before ordering it. As soon as I saw it, I knew it was the one I had been searching for dreaming of. I chose a metallic floral ball gown with a detachable beaded jacket. I wore the jacket for the ceremony and took it off for the reception. It was so me and I have never seen a dress like it! Since I work with my mom and sister everyday they helped me plan about every aspect of my wedding. Because we are in the wedding industry I knew which vendors I wanted to use right away and once the date was set and everything fell into place.

On October 3, 2015 we got married at Dordt College in Sioux Center, IA, with 150 of our closest friends and relatives celebrating with us. I attended Dordt College and graduated in 2014 and have always thought it was a beautiful campus. The ceremony took place in the Dordt College campus center and the reception took place in a white tent right behind on the campus lawn. The campus center is a room with large open windows which showcased the beautiful fall trees outside. I had tall silver metallic candlesticks down the aisle and had large floral arrangements on top of the stage. I had 2 bridesmaids who were my sister and sister in law who wore tulle latte bridesmaid dresses with an appliquéd bodice from Watters. I picked the bridesmaid dress before my wedding gown which set the color tone for our wedding. Tony’s brother and my brother in law wore black tuxes and a skinny black tie.

At the reception our theme was a Parisian garden party. My family and I had traveled to Paris the year before and I loved the romantic feel of the city. I also wanted to incorporate soft and feminine colors including rose gold, gold, and silver mixed with neutrals of taupe and blush pink. The centerpieces included glass candelabras and tall floral arrangements assorted with white roses, hydrangeas and quicksand roses. Every guest had a bell jar with macarons inside of it next to their dinner plate. Our European vacation led me to love macarons and I knew that I somehow wanted to incorporate them into my wedding. Around the tables were gold bamboo chairs and a large gold chandelier in the middle of the tent. The head table was adorned with a large bay leaf garland down the center. The chandelier in the middle of the tent brought everything together. The catered meal included a pasta and salad bar. For dessert we had a coffee and cupcake bar. Our engagement photos were taken at a coffee shop so we used these photos as décor at the coffee bar. We wanted our guests to feel like they could get up and mingle whenever they pleased and were in a casual, intimate atmosphere. We left our reception running through a lighted balloon send off. Looking in our rear view mirror we could see balloons drifting up into the sky for miles. Our wedding day went perfectly and looked exactly as I imagined it! My favorite part of the wedding was entering the reception after the ceremony and seeing the vision of the wedding I had been planning for a year come together so beautifully and was now a reality.

Jstyle Weddings Bridal Event + A Giveaway!

If there is one thing we love here at SMP, it’s a reason to celebrate. Think drop-dead gorgeous weddings, glittery gold anything and, of course, the Jstyle Weddings Bridal Event happening on April 10, 2016 at The Westin Cleveland Downtown. It’s the city’s most intimate bridal experience, complete with yummy treats, insanely gorgeous inspiration and a never-ending lineup of seriously talented wedding experts. It’s going to be sooo awesome.

Whether you are a modern couple planning your dreamy rooftop wedding or a romantic duo who can’t wait to say “I do” in a garden surrounded by lush florals, the Jstyle Weddings Bridal Event has everything (and I mean everything) you’ll ever need to plan your perfect Big Day. I’m talking Cleveland’s most sought-after vendors joining forces with an entire 4 hours of dazzling inspiration and supporting sponsors Catering by Heinen’s and L’Nique Linens. Plus, each and every stunning moment will take place at The Westin Cleveland Downtown, a hotel that knows everything there is to know about throwing an amazing party. It’s Planning 101 with vendors who will all make it happen seamlessly. And we couldn’t be more excited.

So what are you waiting for, loves? Mark those calendars for Sunday, April 10, 2016 from 11 am – 3 pm. You’ll mix and mingle with the best in bridal salons, cake design, floral design, photography, catering, event design, entertainment, cinematography, health + beauty, wedding planning… and more. Plus, you’ll receive an ah-mazing gift bag, have the exclusive on event-day discounts AND be automatically entered into some fabulous giveaways. Oh, and did I mention the bubbly and dessert? Don’t miss out.

Register for the Jstyle Weddings Bridal Event here and be sure to follow them on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. #JstyleWeddings

What: The Jstyle Weddings Bridal Event is giving one lucky SMP reader a (1) complimentary overnight stay at The Westin Cleveland Downtown with breakfast for (2) and complimentary valet parking ($300 value)!

How: Simply leave a comment below telling us what you are looking forward to the MOST at the Jstyle Weddings Bridal Event! (Ex: I can’t WAIT to chat with all of the amazing cake designers! Yum!)

Who: One lucky winner, chosen completely at random, will be announced right here on SMP on Friday, April 1, 2016! For terms and conditions, click here. Good luck, loves!

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Photography (Top to Bottom): Jstyle Weddings (Photos 1,7) + Lauren Gabrielle Photography (Photo 2-6) + Catering By Heinen’s (Photo 3) + Genevieve Nisly Photography (Photo 8) | Event Planning: Kirkbrides + A Charming Fête | Florist: Blooms By Plantscaping + Molly Taylor and Co. | Catering: Catering By Heinen’s | Hotel: The Westin Cleveland Downtown | Bridal Magazine: Jstyle Weddings | Country Club: The Country Club | Linens: L’Nique Linens

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Whimsical Countryside Wedding

After being escorted down the aisle by their young daughter, this cute couple wed amongst nature. Reminiscent of an English countryside garden, this nostalgically intimate gathering is oh-so-sweet. Crowned with delicate blushing blooms and an adorable striped canvas tent, Aly Carroll captured the allure and nuance of their lovely sunset celebration.

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Garden Weddings Outdoor Weddings

Aly Carroll Photography… The nuptials of Sheila and Jake were held at Reiman Gardens in Ames, Iowa, August 15, 2014. On this day, however, the setting was more reminiscent of an English countryside garden, complete with pea gravel pathways, an idyllic potting shed, and masses of late summer plantings spilling from estate-worthy urns.

It was a small, nostalgically intimate gathering, with only a few close family and friends attending. After being escorted down the aisle by their young daughter Sophie, the couple were wed against the backdrop of nature.

Professional floral designer Shelly Sarver artfully embellished the outdoor space with gorgeous pale pink roses, white hydrangeas, and dusty sage greenery. Flowing grosgrain ribbons highlighted the elegant arrangements.

Sophie even had her own little on-site retreat – – an adorable striped canvas tent, crowned with a delicate cascade of blushing blooms. A sunset reception was held on the terrace under large periwinkle umbrellas. Lanterns dotted the landscape, and star garland and fairy lights twinkled above in the leafy canopy of trees.

Fine art wedding photographer Aly Carroll captured all the allure and nuance of this lovely celebration. No doubt, every image will continue to tell the story of Sheila and Jake’s romantic “English country” wedding for years to come.

WASIO photography + A Special Offer + A Giveaway!

Ask anyone I know and they’ll tell you I am rarely at a loss for words; I like to talk… a lot. But every once in awhile, I come across something sooo incredibly breathtaking and beautiful, words escape me. And that something is the brilliant work of WASIO photography, a talented team of photographers that know a thing or two about capturing your wedding day in images you’ll treasure for always. Made up of two husband and wife teams (Sasha & Yaneck + Magda & Marcin), WASIO photography is known for building personal relationships with each and every one of their clients; meeting them several times pre-wedding, bonding with them at their amazing engagement shoots and even inviting family members to the viewing sessions post-wedding. Which means that on your big day, you’ll have friends documenting all of those special moments, making their perspective that much more unique. And WASIO photography isn’t afraid to do whatever it takes to get the jaw-dropping, one-of-a-kind image, whether it’s on the day of your nuptials, at night with their custom lighting or at one of their breathtaking sunrise engagement sessions. [iframe http://www.youtube.com/embed/KZtDuEQCXM0 600 338] Visit WASIO photography today to talk to the team of photogs that will take your wedding photography to the next level. And don’t forget, if you book WASIO photography by June, 2015, you’ll receive a 16×24 beautifully matted fine art print printed on hand-made German 100% cotton museum paper ($450 value)!What: WASIO photography is giving away a sunset or sunrise 1-hour engagement session!* (Value $499)

How: To enter, go here!

Iowa Weddings

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