Ryan and Lindsay had their wedding ceremony and reception at Bella Sala, just outside of Iowa City. Getting to know Ryan and Lindsay throughout the last year, I have appreciated that Lindsay knows what she wants, and won’t settle for anything less. That kind of tenacity is helpful for us, because she is willing to go to extreme measures to make sure her vision comes to life and that we can make the most of the photos. Aaaaaand turns out, going to extreme measures was actually quite necessary on their wedding day! Previous record high temperatures were shattered over Memorial Day weekend, but maaaaaaaan, Bella Sala has a beautiful outdoor ceremony space that you just have to take advantage of, right? Right. There was no plan B, even though it was confirmed to be at least 97 degrees at the time of the ceremony. The shade stretched only close enough to tease us all, so we’re talking full, blazing sun and almost 100 degrees. And you know what? It was picture-perfect beautiful. But, dare I say, what was more beautiful, was that once Ryan and Lindsay made it to the altar together, it seemed as though everything but the two of them and their love for one another faded away. The year-long pursuit of shopping for pretty things; the obsession over perfecting every detail; even the crazy heat we stood in was insignificant as they stood together with tears in their eyes. That’s the beauty I crave to photograph most of all. And man, that is just the ceremony!
It was hot, and we all needed our share of Bug Soother, (and maybe it was just me), but I felt like the couple hours we spent outside—shooting the ceremony, the wedding party, and Ryan and Lindsay themselves—were actually a damn good time! (The more I write these blog posts, the more I question my grammar and punctuation and run-on sentences . . . and I’m sorry that I used the word damn, I just needed to emphasize that point, because it was true). Ryan and Lindsay, I think that is a tribute to you guys and your wedding party. Seriously, you guys are awesome, and we appreciate you guys making the day amazing no matter what the conditions!
When it came time to head indoors for the reception, they had the space at a cozy 68 degrees. For most of us, that was just a little glimpse of heaven, but for Kara, she had to grab a jacket and show me her goosebumps. Women….. In that glorious, air-conditioned space, there were toasts that brought more tears, there were sweet spotlight dances and there were delicious sweets to eat. Ryan and Lindsay greeted and thanked each and every table group—and likely each and every guest—that came to celebrate with them, while some average dance moves were displayed on the dance floor. 🙂
Ryan and Lindsay, I hope you guys were able to soak in and enjoy your wedding day while being such wonderful hosts. And we certainly hope that these photos give you an opportunity to relive and remember the events of your day forever. We appreciate you guys having us and we wish you all the best!
Hair/Makeup – Skin Deep Salon & Spa
Flowers – HyVee Waterfront
Cake – Iced Bakery
Dress – Brides by Jessa
DJ – LMD Productions
Party Bus – Dolly’s Party Bus
Photo Booth – Unique Events
Photographers – Carter Photography
