“That is so Katie…” I heard those words over and over again throughout their wedding day. If their wedding day so closely reflected Katie + Phil, you can rest assured that they are considerate of others, loving, laid back, but have a very clear vision for their lives together, serving the Lord, those around them, and each other. Katie has designed bouquets for friends’ wedding days, so I knew her florals and details would be a feast for the eyes. From their programs, bouquets, choice of music and the florals on each reception table (that Katie constructed herself), the day did not disappoint!
I have to give a shout out to my second shooter for the day, Sarah Heimbruch. She is ever-amazing and we always split to cover the guys and gals in an efficient use of time. I’m pretty sure the groups of men she’s helped photograph for me in the past year have been some of the most hilarious of my career, which makes for awesome results. 🙂
In her Matron of Honor toast, MaryBeth commented that Katie hates to be in high temperature surroundings. So, it made total sense that they opted to have their First Look indoors in the best natural light option of our church. (A bride that requests “natural light” is one after my own heart and speaks to Katie’s eye for design!) But really, when you see the smiles on their faces, any backdrop would take a back seat to their joy!!
We headed out, briefly, for bridal party and a few more couple portraits, since the day was a scorcher close to 100 degrees. We might have found the only spot of shade in the whole of Raccoon River Park! Phew! And while I mentioned that the boys were a fun bunch, the ladies certainly had entertaining personalities to boot. I love hanging out with friends for the day with my camera-it really doesn’t feel like work at all!
This ceremony probably breaks a record in how many Ring Bearers and Flower Girls made it down the aisle. The gaggle of nine did an outstanding job and had everyone either laughing in their cuteness or choking up from just how sweet all NINE of them were in making their big entrance (and exits!) But, the photos that Sarah captured of Katie with her dad take the cake!
Katie + Phil had cocktail hour with their guests in the lounge area of Embassy Suites and it gave them ample time to greet everyone in attendance. It was here I learned that the parents of the bridal party had all been invited too! Like I said, consideration of others. Most of the bridal party are parents to small children and would need childcare assistance, but Katie + Phil were good friends with all those parents already too! What a way to say “thank you for giving us fantastic friends and great examples of Godly marriages”!!
Phil + Katie: Your wedding day will not soon be forgotten in my heart! What sweet moments you had throughout the day and I’m honored to be along for the ride! Know that you are covered in prayer for a fantastic God-honoring marriage, and that your support system runs deep!!
Best wishes in EVERYTHING,
Carrie
PS You can view their slideshow HERE. And their entire gallery HERE.
VENDORS OF NOTE:
Florals: Hy-Vee, ask for Michelle
Bridal Dress: Perry Bridal in Valley Junction
Bridesmaids Dresses: Azazie
Hair & Make Up: Trixie’s Salon
Tuxes: The Back Room
Ceremony: WalnutCreek Church
Reception: Embassy Suites Downtown Des Moines
DJ: Patrick Porto
