Cody and Jaclyn found me through a google search for wedding photographers in the West Des Moines area. They’ll be getting married at the Des Moines Embassy Club West location in an intimate ceremony this fall. When we initially met up, they gave me the tour and friends… it’s going to be a gorgeous day!

In harmony with their wedding venue, they decided to have me follow them along to some of their favorite elegant spaces in the Des Moines area. We started off at Americana, a gorgeous restaurant/bar (with delicious American style food) for drinks and conversation.

Even though it was cold (well under freezing!) we ran outside for a few photos in the downtown Des Moines sculpture park. It’s not my favorite place to shoot, but it was right outside Americana and Jaclyn’s favorite sculpture was right there… so we couldn’t pass it up! Plus, it gave us a few fun views of the skyline. And natural light is by far my favorite thing! :)

The real plan for these Des Moines engagement photos were to end up at the downtown Des Moines Embassy Club! It was a foggy afternoon, so our view of the surrounding city was a bit obscured. But the elegance of the space more than made up for the momentary lack of views. ;) The 38th floor is my new favorite hangs (JK! I wish).

Peep the Principal Building in the background! Now to shoot engagement photos from the top of the tallest building in Des Moines…. anyone!?

I believe Cody was a bartender in his college days… so we had to take a few there!

Thanks for inviting me along to photograph you on a mock date night! I can’t wait to hang out more on your wedding day in West Des Moines… it’s going to be the best day ever. :)