I knew from the first minute of sitting down with Melanie for coffee that we’d be friends. It doesn’t hurt that one of my best friends, Jess, referred Mel to me as soon as they got engaged. ;) Referrals make my heart SING and they’re truly the best. I’d be honored to have you refer friends or family to me for wedding, senior, or family photos! But anyway…

These two met in college, at Central College in Pella, but didn't start getting to know each other until they started working together in 2013. They both love the outdoors and nature and Iowa! Ryan lives on a farm outside of Bondurant, IA surrounded by prairie and woods , where they’ll have their reception just after they get married in an intimate wedding downtown Des Moines!

Melanie suggested taking some photos at Greenwood Park, just west of downtown Des Moines. We had the ONE clear night that week had to offer. May’s been a wet month around here! So thankful for a gorgeous evening, mostly bug free and full of sunshine. :)

What’s an engagement session without ice cream!? Snookie’s Malt Shop is well known in the area. For you CF-ians, it’s the local equivalent to Four Queens. :) We snapped some photos in the lot behind, and then waited as the sun went down in the looooongest line for some very tasty ice creams. The perfect ending to a super sweet engagement session!

I can’t wait to photograph your wedding this September! It’s going to be just the very best day, I can tell:)