Carrie + Mike

In the church where her parents met while attending Iowa State, Carrie and Mike prepared to see each other in their wedding attire. I'd photographed Carrie's family at her older sister's wedding two years ago and thought it super sweet that a similar color played throughout both of their weddings-a royal, stately, blue. True to Carrie's personality though, she added a splash of pink. Calmly, with some scattered laughter, they were surrounded by siblings and best of friends. 

I've not ever had a bride and groom do their First Look like this: the location Carrie & Mike had selected for this part of their day has beautiful architecture that lent itself well to their idea. They wanted to be walking towards each other, but not seeing each other until they'd turned the corner. So, heads down, they approached from their perpendicular locations and met in the middle at the intersection. Though my second shooter snuck a shot of Mike trying to peek....;) 

We continued our walk from their First Look to the Campanile, stealing a few shots along the way-especially under this gorgeous tree that provided ample shade in the sticky heat.

I LOVE the churches these Demmon sisters choose to get married in!! Old and gorgeous woodwork throughout-incredible indoor lighting provided by scads of stain-glass windows. But the beauty of the location can't compare to a bride's smile as her dad prepares to give her away...Also true to Demmon sister form, they come up with something different for their "Unity Candle" ceremony. Carrie & Mike brought dirt from their hometowns and dirt from Iowa State's campus where they met to combine all those granules in a peace lily plant. I sure hope one of them has a green thumb so it lasts forever. :)

We had a cushion of time before and after the ceremony to play with the church's architecture (and Carrie & Mike). I love highlighting the venue AND the couple. :) 

Off to the reception we go! 

Carrie + Mike: What a pleasure capturing your day!! Thank you so much for having me out with your family again-it was great seeing everyone on top of the joy of documenting the love you have for each other. Best of luck and grace as you transition not only to a new town (Carrie) but a new job teaching in the fall. Your students are so lucky to have you!! Keep that lily alive!! ;) 

Blessings, 

Carrie

Vendors of Note: 

Dress: Maggie Sottero

Hair Stylist: Michelle Doyle of Tommy's Salon

Florist + Cake: HyVee, Meggan Brandmeyer

DJ: Nic Sandstorm of BCP Live

Ceremony: Collegiate United Methodist Church

Reception: Ames Golf & Country Club

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