Ian and Kari have quite a unique story. They branded portions of their wedding day with phrases like, “This is where we start again,” and, “It was always you.” They dated each other in high school, and Ian even gave Kari a promise ring while they dated (which Kari kept and I photographed on the wedding day). They went off to different colleges and the distance eventually tore them apart. But after many years, and lots of life in between, these two ended up back together, ready to start again and certain that they were always each other’s person. Pretty much a Hallmark movie, as they said.
As with any movie script though, there has to be conflict and some sort of drama to keep things interesting and make the conclusion more satisfying. There was much that tried to derail Ian and Kari from getting to this day, but they persevered nonetheless. They were originally planning to get married on a mountain in Colorado, but then COVID-19… So, having to reimagine their wedding plans, they came back to Iowa where their story originally started. That wasn’t exactly smooth sailing either. While they were in town looking at reception venues, tornados chased them all over the area. On the wedding day, we were looking at a hot day, but at least it wasn’t supposed to rain. Until 1:00, when all the sudden the chance of rain went up to 80% right at the time of their ceremony! The day was hot, but the rain missed us just to the north, and even better, we were spared any tornados.
The girls started the day getting ready at the Palmer House Stable in Solon, which is also where they had the wedding reception later that evening. The ceremony was at the Celebration Farm in Iowa City. We took most of the portraits out at the Celebration Farm, which looked super nice, despite it being so warm. Ian and Kari had only a small number of family and friends in attendance for the wedding, but it was perfect. I’ll reiterate it again—I love small weddings and being able to experience and document the intimate moments they provide. The ceremony provided laughter, tears and painting in super fancy clothes. I think we were all excited to grab some AC afterward! We headed a few miles north to the Palmer House Stable for the reception, which featured a wonderful dinner catered by Blackstone. After a couple toasts were shared, everyone got on the dance floor. I mean everyone. It was refreshing to shoot a dance party again, especially responsibly with just the small number of people in attendance. We finished the night playing with some sparklers as the sun went down. It’s always fun to try new things, and it’s exciting when they actually turn out! Thanks for the challenge, Kari. 🙂
Ian and Kari, thank you for choosing to have us be a part of your wedding day! It was a privilege to be able to document the conclusion to your Hallmark movie, albeit in still photos. We wish you guys all the best for a lifetime of love and happiness together!
Hair & Makeup – Eden Salon & Spa
Rentals & Design – Borrow My Vintage
Flowers – Hydrangea Bloom
Catering – Blackstone
Cake – Deluxe Iowa
Photographers – Carter Photography
Thank you for sharing what is absolutely a hallmark story. It is inspiring and a glorious reminder that love truly overcomes all!