The day was predicted to be warm, windy, and partly sunny and while that all came true, Kelsi's walk down the aisle was different than what we all expected. The wind died down to a whisper and the sun winked from behind a cloud. Her father stoically gave her to Tyler and at the reception, caught a lump in his throat when toasting to his little girl and the new man in her life. And, as predicted, the sunset was gorgeous to wrap up a beautiful day, celebrating two people who just promised each other Forever.

We were able to sneak Kelsi out to the trees ahead of their First Look for some portraits and sneak her back into hiding before we placed Tyler. It's a pretty rare thing when the bride is ready before the groom! Way to go, girl! :)

We moved so smoothly from First Look, to bridal party, to family and ceremony that the day felt just as swift as the breeze rustling the apple orchard's branches...

Super proud teacher moment-hearing a show choir ballad make it into former students' wedding ceremony during their Unity Sand pouring. Four seasons ago, Tyler was a senior in Gerard's show choir and they performed 'I Won't Give Up' by Jason Mraz. The lyrics are so fitting for a wedding and I was grinning ear to ear the entire time it played. Well done you two!

This is where I get to highlight a couple of sweet things that make Kelsi & Tyler's day unique and my second shooter's shots (don't say that 10 times fast!) While I was getting more close-up images, he was having fun with his lights and wide angle lens. So thankful for Colby! In addition to the traditional reception highlights of first dances, bouquet and garter tosses, and super yummy cupcakes made by Kelsi's sister, University of Northern Iowa graduates will understand the circling of the dance team around Tyler & Kelsi as a football game tradition. While both were at UNI, Kelsi was on the dance team and a large majority of its members were in attendance, so of course, they had to carry on and Kelsi couldn't have been more ecstatic!

From there, we headed outside to take advantage of the gorgeous sunset and the beautiful love between these two. While I was getting the wider shots at times, Colby was closer and vice versa. Here are my favorites from both our cameras:

Kelsi + Tyler: Your day was beautiful, but your love was even sweeter to document. I'm so thankful to have played a small part in your day and wish you nothing but the best as you get your Forever started.

Blessings,
Carrie

PS You can view their slideshow HERE and their entire gallery HERE.

Vendors of Note:

Florals-Hy-Vee

Cake/Cupcakes-Madison of Cupcakes Gone Mad (Kelsi's awesome sister!!)

Ceremony + Reception-Happy Apple Orchard