A Gorgeous Hometown Wedding Near Ida Grove, Iowa

I hadn’t met Austin and Cailin but once before their wedding. We met for Mexican food and sat chatting all evening. Even though I didn’t know much about them, and hadn’t gotten them in front of my camera before, they made their wedding day so easy on me last Saturday! It was the only wedding in the history of weddings to be ahead of schedule and have extra time for portraits! Just kidding…but seriously. The day flowed so smoothly, and everyone was attentive and willing to help get things done. It was a dream day for me as the photographer, and hope it was a dream day for the couple as well!

Cailin (and Austin of course) absolutely nailed the details and decor! I knew their flowers would be on point, because they chose Abby and she is one of the top notch florists in the area. But I was in for a sweet surprise with the rest of the details! Everything was meticulously thought out, between the dusty purple accents and all the greenery! The signs were beautiful and they even thought to put extra potted plants and wreaths outside of the church. Their invitation suite was one of the prettiest ones I’ve seen yet this year! It goes to show that it doesn’t take a lot to make a beautiful day! Keep things simple and focused on one theme!

So, you know as a photographer, I love beautiful things to photograph, but more importantly than that is the beautiful marriage. Cailin and Austin are a couple I don’t have any doubts about, because it’s just so clear why they work well together! They share similar interests and are so passionate about one another. I don’t think Austin loved being the center of attention for the day, but when I got him alone with Cailin, he literally lit up with happiness. He looks at her adoringly and I know that his world most likely revolves around her. How sweet is that?

I am a sucker for romantic moments, and they will mostly likely win the award for sweetest first look this year, as the entire moment had me in tears! I had them set up next to this beautiful garden, and both of them told me they wouldn’t cry (I mean I have to suggest it every time, right?) but they both broke down and couldn’t hide it from me! The excitement bubbled over when they got to see each other and hug each other for the first time and it was the coolest thing to get to document. Aw, those raw moments get me every time!

This has been my first and only wedding at the Ida Grove Skate Palace, but I hope it won’t be my last because it’s the most fun space! I didn’t know what to expect, as to how a reception would be setup there, but it’s perfect! I can’t wait to book another Ida Grove wedding…anyone, anyone?

Congratulations, Austin and Cailin. Thank you so much for trusting me to document this important day in your lives and I hope that you adore these images!

THE CREATIVE TEAM

PHOTOGRAPHY // Jessica Brees Photography

VENUE // Ida Grove Skate Palace

FLORAL DESIGN // Abby with Petald (inside Rehabd Boutique)

DJ // Duane Murley Mobile Sound

BRIDAL GOWN // Sequins Bridal

BRIDESMAID GOWNS // Azazie

TUXES // Sequins Bridal

RECEPTION DECOR // Celebrations Rentals

This photo on the right of the kissing selfie might be one of my favorite photos ever…but not sure if it’s because of how cute it is, or if it’s because of my gorgeous camera backpack in the background!

These dancing photos are my favorite ever! This was the best dancing crowd since Nick and Jenna’s wedding last fall!