“Here’s to the past, for all that you’ve learned,
Here’s to the present, for all that you share,
Here’s to the future, for all that you look forward to together”
If that toast above doesn’t clue you in, this wedding day was gorgeous and so heartfelt. Emotions were high, tears shed, and many hugs, kisses, and laughs displayed. Justin and Lauren met through work, back in 2011. It took a while, but they finally figured out that they made a great match for each other. I believe that Justin proposed at Prairie Moon Winery, and shortly after, they began planing their wedding there! This was my second wedding out at the winery, and I was so excited to photograph this day. Hot for September, with mosquitoes in droves. Good thing the Breja’s love is stronger than those pesky bugs, and sweeter than all the wine at Prairie Moon!
We started off the day by taking separate photos of the groomsmen & bridesmaids on Iowa State University’s campus. It’s always a great spot for photos, and was easy access from St. Thomas, the catholic church where Justin and Lauren would be tying the knot.
Since Lauren and Justin opted out of a first look, below was the moment Justin saw his bride for the first time! He was definitely mesmerized! (Not surprised! Seriously, Lauren looked amazing in her gown.)
First kiss means MARRIED FOR REAL!
After greeting their guests, Lauren & Justin headed over to Iowa State’s campus for a few moments of just the two of them. They were pretty excited to be married, but I don’t think it had quite begun to sink in.
Isn’t that bouquet just gorgeous!? You can’t go wrong with eucalyptus, red roses, and white florals. Perfectly classic and timeless!
Found the rest of the wedding party for a few more group photos, now that guys and girls could be seen together. ;) Thanks Iowa State Campus for being the perfect location for a couple quick wedding pictures. #loyalforevertrue
I don’t normally post the family formal photos online, but these two moments were TOO sweet to not share! I love how fun the Breja siblings are together. And Lauren & her grandma?! Love them. Wanna be them! <3
Next on the wedding timeline was dinner! (Everyone’s favorite part of the day, am I right!?) Hickory Park catered and pretty quickly devoured up some amazing sandwiches, green beans, and cheesy mashed potatoes. The sunlight was turning golden outside, so I snuck the bride and groom out back in to the vineyards. Gotta get those sunset wedding day photos when you can!
The mosquitos were extremely vicious, so we wrapped up wedding portraits and headed back inside Prairie Moon Winery for the first dances and toasts! Both dads gave such tender and uplifting speeches, while the best man and maid of honor both lightened up the room with their toasts.
Central Iowa Wedding Vendors
Dress: Schaffers
Tuxes: Moorman Clothiers
Florals: Hyvee
Catering: Hickory Park in Ames
DJ: A Special Event DJ
Venue: Tricia at Prairie Moon Winery in Ames