When couples ask me what makes for a wonderful wedding day, my answer is almost never “perfect weather.”
But in Ruthie and Grant’s case…they got that, too.
Their June wedding in Des Moines was one of those rare Iowa days with blue skies, low humidity, and temperatures that made everyone want to linger outside. It was beautiful from start to finish, but what I’ll remember most wasn’t the sunshine. It was the overwhelming sense of peace that surrounded the entire day.
From the moment I arrived, everything felt calm.
The girls were already finished with hair and makeup, everyone was ahead of schedule, and there wasn’t an ounce of rushing. I honestly don’t know if I’ve ever had a bride arrive before her groom for the first look! Ruthie intentionally surrounded herself with an incredible team, including a day-of coordinator who kept every detail moving smoothly so she, Grant, and their families could simply enjoy the day they had spent months planning.
For their first look, we met at the Judicial Branch Building in downtown Des Moines, where the hydrangeas were in full bloom. They perfectly complemented Ruthie’s timeless gown and elegant florals. The bridal party was ready on time, eager to celebrate, and even willing to stand in full June sunshine in suits and dresses with smiles on their faces.
Their ceremony was beautifully Christ-centered and included one of the most meaningful moments I’ve witnessed in all my years as a Des Moines wedding photographer.
While Ruthie and Grant signed their marriage license, the music played softly, and every guest was invited to gather into small groups and pray over the newly married couple. Friends, family, and members of their church surrounded them in prayer before they had even walked back down the aisle together.
I’ve never seen a wedding include that tradition before, and I sincerely hope I see it again. It was a powerful reminder that marriage isn’t meant to be lived alone. Ruthie and Grant begin this chapter supported by a loving family, faithful friends, and a church community committed to encouraging them for years to come.
Then came one of the most unique wedding receptions I’ve ever photographed.
The celebration continued at Smash Park in West Des Moines, where nearly everyone changed out of formal attire and into athletic clothes for pickleball! One guest asked if I’d ever photographed pickleball during a wedding reception, and I laughed because the answer was an enthusiastic “No!”
Watching Ruthie and Grant step onto the court together turned out to be one of my favorite moments of the day. They laughed, encouraged each other, and played side by side like true teammates. It became such a fitting picture of what marriage looks like—working together, enjoying one another, and having fun along the way.
Ruthie and Grant, thank you for inviting me to document the beginning of your marriage. I’m also thankful Trisha found me through Google, read my reviews, and trusted me with such an important day. It’s a wonderful reminder that thoughtful SEO and kind client reviews really do help connect photographers with the couples they’re meant to serve.
From your elegant ceremony to your Dr. Scholl’s sneakers on the pickleball court, every part of your wedding reflected exactly who you are.
I couldn’t imagine a better way to begin your marriage, and I’m so grateful I had a front-row seat to witness it.
Congratulations, you two. I’ll be cheering you on for all the years to come!
