Drew and Courtni had their wedding ceremony and reception at the new Olympic South Side Theater located in the NewBo district of Cedar Rapids. We started the day with the finishing touches of getting ready before Courtni got into her dress. One thing that is important to me as a photographer is window light as a bride is getting ready. The Olympic met those requirements in spades, and we could basically make it look like Courtni was getting dressed in a photo studio. I think those turned out beautifully.
After everyone was suited up for the day, Courtni had a couple first looks with her dad and soon-to-be husband. Both big, tough guys held strong for a while, but eventually bailed to the back room when the emotions started kicking in. I think Courtni went 2-for-2.
It was not the nicest day weather-wise while we tried to take photos around the NewBo area. We were watching the radar all day and watching the precipitation percentages fluctuate in silly randomness. It was a bit breezy, and even though it didn’t really “rain” on the wedding day like we were worried about, there was a persistent mist or drizzle that eventually made us have to resort to shooting only indoors. This wasn’t a huge bummer, because Drew and Courtni had chosen a photogenic venue with lots of window light (thanks, Olympic).
The ceremony was short and sweet with everything happening on the stage of the theater. I love when officiants or pastors tell the couple to take a minute and look out at the crowd that is gathered around them for this big moment. Wedding days are such a blur, and being able to take even just 15 seconds to soak in the momentous occasion is such a great idea. It’s a chance to see how much you are loved and supported. It’s especially meaningful when people gather in such a way during these times to support you. Pretty good stuff.
After the ceremony, the rockstar team of Unique Events whirled through the venue and flipped the room so it was ready for the wedding reception. The wedding party made their entrance and Drew and Courtni did their first dance on stage in front of the crowd. That was followed by toasts and everyone crying. After dinner (and after the drinks had been flowing for a while), the dance party really got started. A couple parent dances kicked things off, and then some passionate booty shaking ensued. And some drink spillage. And truly great times had by all. I have concerns about what the next morning looked like for some in attendance, however. 🙂
Hair & Makeup – Studio 346
Flowers – Unique Events
Rentals – Unique Events
Day of Coordinator – Kelly @ Unique Events
Cake – Iced Bakery
Desserts – Cookies from Hy-Vee
DJ – Bobby Hansen
Catering – McElroy’s
Photographers – Carter Photography
