alec and brittany | lemars, iowa

Before I start to gush about all the heartwarming and sweet moments of Alec and Brittany’s wedding at the LeMars Convention Center, make sure you check out their engagement session if you missed it! I  had never met Brittany before our consultation, but right away she came off as sweet and utterly ADORABLE! We had the BEST time shooting the engagement session in Sioux City, especially walking their dog Tito around downtown. Seeing Brittany’s taste as well as Alec’s remarkable sense of style, I had no doubt that this wedding day was going to be filled with gorgeous details.

I arrived on the warmest day of the year so far and walked into a bridal suite filled with contagious joy. Brittany spent the morning getting ready with her bridal party and family, and just soaking in precious moments with the most important people in her life. Everyone chatted happily about the amazing weather (compared to the nonstop rain we’ve been having) and how great the bride looked. I know that Brittany was anxious to get into her dress, but what was most obvious was how  excited she was to see Alec. She could not WAIT to call him her husband!

She was so overcome with love, appreciation, and joy.

Even though I expected so many beautifully planned details to photograph, I did not expect such genuine and tear-filled moments throughout the day! From a tear-jerking first look with Brittany’s Dad to the oh-so-sweet speeches made at the reception. I absolutely loved the moment when Alec said during his speech that he didn’t win any money on the Kentucky Derby, but that he was sure he was the biggest winner of the day! And I completely lost control of my emotions when Brittany turned to Alec for part of her speech, but couldn’t finish. She was so overcome with love, appreciation and joy that she was speechless, and simply hugged herself into his chest and told the crowd “I think that might be all!”

Alec and Brittany, thank you so much for allowing me the privilege of photographing your wedding day. You have an incredible love story, and such a strong foundation in your marriage. I just love you both!!!

A huge thanks to the wonderful creative team!

PHOTOGRAPHY | Jessica Brees Photography

VENUE | LeMars Community Center

BRIDAL GOWN | Schaffer’s Bridal West Des Moines

BRIDESMAID DRESSESS | Mila Gowns

TUXEDOS | Halberstadt’s, West Des Moines

BRIDAL SHOES | Betsy Johnson

CATERING | Central Catering

DJ | Phaze One Entertainment

FLORALS | Originals by Design

RINGS | Greenberg’s Des Moines

And cue the tears….the first look with her sweet Dad was the coolest moment of the day for me to shoot!

Post ceremony – second favorite portrait of the day

And winner, winner…this is the TOP fave of the day!

And now for Tito to completely steal the show…

The best first dance of 2019 so far, and that dip?? WOO!