Wow. What do I say!? Lizzy, as I know her, roomed with me, in my first Ames apartment. She was a junior at ISU, and not long after moving in, this guy Nate started hanging around. He was kind of quiet at first (especially compared to her!) but slowly started sharing more of himself as we all crossed paths. Us girls figured out by the end of the year that we though he was the one for her… and we were right. ;)
Elizabeth and Nate’s wedding puts all others to shame. (Just wait until you see the reception details. I couldn’t even blog all of them but wow, such a beautiful sight.) This Iowa winter wedding shone full of sunshine, dear family, and many many loved friends from the Iowa State Agronomy program. ;) We kicked off this wedding day with the couple getting ready in the church…
Can we just take a MOMENT to appreciate this lace dress!? Oh. My. Gosh. Lizzy was a vision in this gown!
Since a first look was a big “NO” from these two, we did a quick prayer and hand-holding. I tried hard not to invade their space too much… but oh, they were the sweetest prayers you have ever heard! It’s easy to know that no matter what is ahead in life, these two will be fine with Christ at the center of their marriage.
Guests began arriving, and the sanctuary was soon packed out. Just after 1pm, the wedding party began walking down the aisle!
Poor little ring bearer— he wasn’t very happy about big sister forcing him to walk down the aisle!
After we took a few large group family photos in the sanctuary, Lizzy & Nate gathered the troops to head outside. It was a balmy 30* and the sun was just dreamy! There was snow on the ground, leftover from a previous storm, and a fence just out back behind the church. Sometimes, the very best photo locations are the ones in the most random spots! We finished up family portraits and started the bridal party photos right there, at the edge of the parking lot. As my mentor Jenna used to say, “Work smarter, not harder!”.
The wedding party decided to head to a local bar to celebrate together, while I rushed over to take photos of the reception setup. Lizzy had grown up showing cattle, so the Boone County Fairgrounds was the perfect venue for their wedding reception! She had done an incredible job decorating it— lights were hung all over, creating a cozy atmosphere, and fresh evergreen branches adorned every long table. The centerpieces and decor pieces all around the room were homemade, with evident love. It was the perfect December wedding— just enough Christmas feel without glaring “red and green”.
This is what happens when your flash misfires! Also, a great comparison of the difference between a little flash & none. ;)
After the smore’s roast, we moved into toasts! Each person in the bridal party got to share something, which was unique and sweet. Also, I have never heard so many references to sweet corn!
Nate and Lizzy, it was such a joy to celebrate your day with you. I have so loved watching you two grow, both spiritually and in the persons you are… together, and individually! Many, many blessings on your marriage and new life together, and happy honeymooning!!!!
Wisconsin & Iowa Wedding Vendors
Wedding Rings: Ames Silversmithing
Wedding Dress: Amelishan Bridal
Wedding Boots: Boot Barn
Bridesmaids Dresses: Amelishan Bridal
Tuxes: Men’s Warehouse
Wedding Venue: Boone Fairgrounds