You know how you sometimes meet people and just instantly know they are the kindest, most genuine souls? That’s how I felt when I first met Andrea & James. It was further confirmed during the toasts at their reception that they are loyal and gracious, both with each other and with their friends. It makes me so happy to see marriages that start out on such a solid grounding.

Their Kinnick football stadium press box wedding was a gorgeous and intimate affair, but the day started just across the river at the Catholic church. When we arrived, the ladies were relaxing. I set aside the first 45 minutes to photograph the wedding details like the gown, jewelry, shoes, and paper suite. The color palette for the wedding was one of my very favorites: kelly green and navy. Yes please.

Andrea’s something borrowed was her mother’s necklace and her something old was a piece of her mother’s wedding dress sewn on the inside of her own gown.
We went just kitty-corner from the church for the first look and photos. It was so gorgeous and, really, not as hot as it could’ve been in August! I love James’ expression at seeing Andrea for the first time!
Andrea’s dress was a masterpiece! You know I love tulle and lace and a ballgown skirt. le sigh.
All the stomping around in the grass without heel stoppers made for some dirty Badgley Mischkas. I’m hoping they cleaned up well afterwards. Andrea??

In my own wedding, one of my favorite shots was from above in the balcony during the ceremony. We had a small, private ceremony with a larger reception following and I love to look at that photo and see each special person who was there for our vows. If there’s a balcony, I always try to get a photo similar for my couples, but if there isn’t, even just a photo from the back of the church will do. For weddings such as this, where a lot of guests (and the bride & groom themselves!) were from out of state, it makes it even more special later to see who made the trip to celebrate the couple.

Might I remind you how much I love this color palette? They made me love it even more by having their bridal party pick out their own dresses/suits. You guys, it’s my favorite when couples do this!
After the ceremony and some photos at the Old Capitol, we headed over to Kinnick where the reception was held in the press box. We made a pit stop outside for some quick photos before heading in.

Andrea & James opted to keep the reception decor simple and classy. They agreed that the venue provided enough substance that it wasn’t necessary to go over the top with centerpieces and I agree with them!

I don’t typically eat any of the hors d’oeuvres, but I couldn’t resist snagging on of these kabobs pictured below. It was absolutely delicious and I kind of wanted to raid the kitchen for at least 25 more.

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