Savannah & Nathan first met up with me a few months back. We went out for drinks and an appetizer at RoCA, in downtown Des Moines. It was obvious to me pretty fast that these two are FUN! We connected easily and quickly. I knew that I’d love Savannah & Nathan's wedding day! Since it was happening the weekend of July 4th, they had planned a "red, white, and blue" themed wedding. The perfect nod to our Independence Day. Well, July 7th came quickly, and it was the most gorgeous Saturday in July you could pray for. Clear skies, not the hottest day on record, and (as you'll see) lots of smiling, eager friends and family!

Savannah did her hair and makeup prior to coverage starting, but she and her bridesmaids all came over to the church in East Village, so that I could get photos of her getting into her dress. She was SO excited, and kept bouncing her hands around. It was way too funny!

The ceremony took place in the historic Capitol Hill Lutheran Church. The inside is incredible! The church also has a distinguishing red door out front--such a vibrant building.

FINALLY MARRIED!

We just had to find a few of the classic Des Moines art murals! The sun was bright (and hot) but I don't think anyone complained. Thank you to the entire bridal party for being so much fun!

The following picture is one of my very favorites from this wedding day! I love that Des Moines skyline, and Nathan & Savannah look pretty darn good in front of it, if I do say so!

These two jumped back on the bus with their wedding party, and I drove (with my amazing assistant and step-in videographer, Amber) to the reception location. I'd heard of Sunset Ridge Barn before, but this was my first time seeing in in person. Let me say, this wedding venue does not disappoint! Just south of Des Moines, in Prole, the barn sits on acres of rolling fields. Corn was growing tall, hay bales were stacked neatly outside, and nearby was a freshly mowed field of WILDFLOWERS! Also, the sweet owner, Heather, now includes a s'mores bar as an option. It's incredible! I had a Reeses S'more. Life-changing, y'all. But I digress. ;)

What's better than a Coca-Cola toast at your 4th of July inspired wedding?! Nothing more American than that!

One thing I loved about the wedding reception venue, Sunset Ridge Barn, was the upper level! It provides a lot of extra seating, and an easy way for the guests to watch events (like the first dance) without being in each other's way. Or the photographer's way. ;) Plus-- extra bunting and twinkle lights! Win-win!

My favorite part of the evening (besides sunset photos because I LITERALLY DIED YOU GUYS) was this--the longest married couple dance. You all know what I'm taking about! Well, it was Nathan's grandparents and they not only are the cutest, but gave the best (and most hilarious) advice. It was actually the sweetest thing I've seen. I'm melting again just thinking about it!

Savannah & Nathan snuck out from the dance party with me to take some sunset photos (at Sunset Ridge Barn--how perfect!) and OH MY GOSH it was perfect. Some of my favorite golden hour photos of my entire career. You guys, for every photo I'm posting there are 3 more you aren't seeing... that's how shutter-happy I was! Can ya blame a girl?!

After this day, I would like to request all future couples to get married here because it was an incredible venue! If I could shoot weddings here (outdoor, please!?) every time, I don't know if it'd ever get old. 

Savannah & Nathan, thank you for trusting me with your wedding photos! I have so enjoyed getting to know you through the process, and celebrating with your family & friends was truly an experience. I'm so excited for you to continue exploring Des Moines, & making Iowa home!

Des Moines Vendors

Church: Capitol Hill Lutheran Church
Officiant: Scott Rains (Lutheran Church of Hope Ankeny)
Reception Venue: Sunset Ridge Barn
Dress: Boulevard Bride
Flowers: Hyvee West Lakes
Catering: Hyvee West Lakes
Cake: Hyvee West Lakes
Videography: Amelia Renee