As we left the main portrait location, the bride’s family farm, we were sweaty and hot from the sun in the afternoon…and I couldn’t stop sharing with Michael about what I had learned in the previous 20 minutes from the bride’s cousin.  There was a lot to do with spring water and a family owned business (that produced the most clean and lovely tasting water I have had in a while!), but it really had to do with a set of cousins…a lot of them…who all had such strong and bonding memories over this family water farm. Who remembered wading in the lake as kids with grandparents around, and spending summers together even though they didn’t all live near on that family property, and multiple who proposed to their now or future spouses at that location because it meant so much to them. I was completely captured by the story– and by how much I hope and pray that is what my family is creating as well. It was just beautiful.  There was so much family and so many loved ones involved in this day (you will see it with the wedding party), and it was truly beautiful to witness how many are so involved in this story. Melissa and Ryan’s story.

Beyond the emotion, and the heat, it was just an absolutely stunning day.  Beautiful people, beautiful details, and a beautiful start to a marriage and a family.  Melissa and Ryan, I so enjoy the two of you together and the way you love and care for each other. I love how many people you wanted involved in your day, and how special they are to you. I am just so thankful to have witnessed it all!

Melissa had these beautiful heartfelt gifts for each of her immediate family members, each telling a story of their relationship and her love.  She chiseled out time in that day to have a moment with each of them, each more emotional than the previous. Love this of her with her daddy. Time for portraits…it was just so lovely at Melissa’s family farm! Favorite on the left! Such beauties!
Michael’s shot on the right…I love it! This is the magic spot where “Will You Marry Me” has been asked on down the line again and again…
It was such a perfect sunset– my favorite light of the day!
Love this!Melissa and Ryan, we were just so honored to be a part of your day! We adore you two and hope you love this (not so small!) peek!!

To see Melissa and Ryan’s beautiful fall engagement session, click here!!

We LOVED working with Melissa and Ryan’s amazingly-talented creative team!

Reception Venue: The Ambiance

Site Coordinator: Patty Terstriep with The Ambiance

Flowers: HyVee Floral Shop

Hair and Makeup: Adore Studio  and Designers Edge

Videographer: Quinten Cawthon Photography and Film

Caterer: JJ’s Catering

Invitations: Classique, Inc.

Ceremony Venue: St. Francis’ Church

Wedding Dress Boutique: Girls in White Satin

Dress Designer: Morilee

Bridesmaid Dress and Boutique: Morilee from Eighth Avenue Villagers

Tux Rental: Schuecking’s Mens Wear