Midwest Summer Wedding | Hannah + Andrew

Hannah and Andrew’s day was one for the books! Their gorgeous midwest summer wedding was bursting with personality, unique characteristics, and intentional details that made it feel like something out of a fairytale! I am so honored to have been chosen to capture Hannah and Andrew’s big day and knew from our first call that it was going to be something special.

The Venue

First of all, they could not have chosen a more beautiful venue. I am not exaggerating when I say that the Community Orchard in Fort Dodge, Iowa has some of the most beautiful Midwest views I have ever seen. To this day, I still do a double-take when I look at these photos because the background is so surreal!

 

       

Getting Ready

Surprisingly, the Orchard gift shop made the perfect spot for getting ready photos. Equipped with vintage mirrors and a black accent wall, the space brought a much-welcomed moodiness to the scene. Hannah’s wedding dress is one that I will be swooning over until the end of time. The sheer silhouette was stunning from every angle with delicate pearl detailing and a deep-v neckline. The reactions to seeing Hannah in her dress for the first time did not disappoint!

 

            

The Ceremony

The ceremony took place at the nearby St. Paul Lutheran Church. Hannah walked down the aisle with her father, and was given away by both of her parents. Their ceremony was filled with an intimate group prayer and many laughs after the officiant (Hannah’s grandfather) gave the newlyweds some of the best advice I had ever heard. He said, “Now the two of you turn towards each other and hold hands. You are going to say some of the most important words you’ve ever heard to one another. And no, the words are not ‘I love you.’ Face each other and repeat exactly what I say, “I am young, I make stupid mistakes, I love you, please forgive me.” Everyone broke out into laughter, but Hannah and Andrew did exactly as they were told and recited those words to each other.

 

     

Cocktail Hour & Dinner

Cocktail hour was held outside under the pavilion at the Orchard. Cold refreshments and hors d’oeuvres greeted guests as they arrived. The special drink of the night was a caramel apple beverage served over ice, with caramel drizzled on top. I must say, it was one of the best signature drinks I have had at a wedding! I loved how they incorporated the Orchard theme throughout their refreshments and catering. Before dinner, was served everyone joined in singing the Doxology, which is a tradition of the Groom and his family.

 

The Reception

Fun games and dancing comprised the majority of the reception. The Community Orchard had all sorts of entertainment set up for the guests including a bouncy pad, giant chess, pedal carts, swings, and more. Hannah and Andrew wasted NO time when it came to joining in on the fun when they arrived. The two went straight for the bouncy pad with their wedding party and had a blast jumping around with their friends.

 

     

 

Later on, members of Hannah and Andrew’s college fraternity/ sorority performed special Greek house wedding traditions. The men serenaded Hannah with a few songs and dances and the women shared the sisterhood cup of wine. After that, Hannah and Andrew cut their cake and had their first dance as husband and wife. The rest of the night was an upbeat dance party that had everyone out on the dance floor, including grandma!

 

           

Hannah and Andrew’s big day will be one that sticks with me for a long time. Between the stunning views, orchard-themed activities, and energetic dance party, the whole day was nothing but good vibes.

If this sounds like the wedding experience you’re looking for, contact me, and let’s plan your day together!

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