Humidity made the air thick and the sun shone bright on their wedding day. The ladies were gathered in her air conditioned hotel room, cool and calm as they sipped mimosas and snacked on homemade cookies and sandwiches. Sara had the happiest smile on her face the whole time; patient and excited for the day to unfold.

At their engagement session last fall, Sara & Corey had told me about the first time they met. About how they had texted for a while before being able to coordinate an in-person meeting. How Sara had liked him over text and hoped he didn’t turn out to be lame. (“He did not,” she said.) Their conversation was easy, comfortable. “I had a feeling he was really genuine and kind and I knew I wanted to see him again. That was unusual for me. I didn’t just want to give him one more try; this time, I was actually hoping for a second date.”

That first date turned in a second date, then a third, fourth, fifth, and now a lifetime of dates ahead. Sara & Corey are so comfortable together and they are incredibly kind to the people they come in contact with. At the reception, one of Corey’s cousins told me, “Is there anything wrong with the guy? I’ve been trying to find a flaw for years.”

Despite the heat of the day, their ceremony was held on the Hotel Vetro rooftop patio and it was absolutely perfect. Right before the ceremony began, we got some delicious cloud coverage, which helped ease the heat and a slight breeze ruffled through the rows. As for photos, I found a spot on the University of Iowa campus that would provide shade during the high heat as well as a slight wind tunnel due to the positioning of the buildings. With that combination of shade and a breeze, we all made it; just a few drops of sweat!

Sara was just the most joyful & radiant bride!!

I am insanely jealous of Sara’s beautiful freckles. I was so happy that her makeup artist stayed very natural and classic with her makeup and didn’t hide the freckles at all. Isn’t she stunning?

Sara & Corey had their first look before the ceremony which provided us with ample time to get all of their photographs done prior, which also meant they could enjoy cocktail hour with their guest!

This bouquet was a masterpiece. Covington & Company for the win once again!

Anddddd they’re married!!!

Their reception was held inside Hotel Vetro with stunning centerpieces and table settings (and lovely gold chargers of which several groomsmen were confused about the purpose)!

Right after the bridal party introductions, Corey & Sara shared their first dance together. After their first dance, tables were dismissed for dinner. There were several “stations” set up, including a make-your-own salad bar, southern grits & shrimp, and taste of Italy where you could have a chef create your own pasta dish.

To end the evening, I pulled Sara & Corey back out to the rooftop for a few evening photos together.

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Photography: Emily Crall Photography

Videography: Diamond Label Films

Makeup & Hair: Zen Salon & Spa

Bridal Gown: Weddings by Design

Maids’ Gowns: David’s Bridal

Suits: Men’s Wearhouse

Florals: Covington & Company

Cake Artist: Deluxe Cakes & Pastries 

Dessert Bites: Jules Bakery

Catering: HotelVetro

DJ: Colby Yoder

Paper Suite: Zephyr Weddings

Venue: HotelVetro, Iowa City

Musicians: String Quartet (ceremony) and Kevin B.F. Burt (cocktail hour)

Transportation: Hawk Bus Properties