They met in London and now live in California, but she grew up in Iowa and so they planned their wedding in her childhood backyard on a jetty into Lake Keomah under the oak tree that she used to climb as a kid. But as the date got closer, the weather forecast got worse. There was an 80% chance of thunderstorms all day long and she admitted to having a tearful meltdown two weeks before the wedding. Miraculously however, on the morning of the wedding, the forecast started to look better, still rainy, but better. By noon, when she needed to make the call for the backup plan, the chance of rain had dropped to 20%. They took the chance and I’m so grateful they did because their wedding was stunning, absolutely stunning. And you know what? It only sprinkled for about 3 minutes during a few photos after their ceremony. Otherwise, it was all blue skies and clouds. None of us, even in the midst of the day, could believe how it was turning out.

Chanelle & Nik are two of the kindest people I’ve ever met. They surrounded themselves with their closest family and friends on their wedding day and it was so evident how much they cherished their guests as well as their guests cherished them. People had traveled from literally all over the world: England, Sweden, New York, India… During the reception, Chanelle expressed her gratitude for people coming to share their day and that she was so happy to be able to show everyone where she came from, her tribe, her village, her home.

Chanelle mom and step-father had recently gutted their home for a renovation overhaul. (Bless them! They deserve a break now!) When we arrived, I found the most delightful palette I could have ever imagined; clean white everywhere! It was a dream to be able to photograph all of Chanelle’s details right there in the living room as the ladies finished hair and makeup and the guys started setting up chairs in the lawn.

Chanelle’s gown was my dream come true. Blush pink (check), intricate lace detailing (check), button-back (check), flouncy tulle layers (check), and a ballgown silhouette (check-check). There’s nothing that could’ve made this more beautiful.

They shared their First Look in the backyard under the leafy trees.
Those florals though…Shelly, you’ve outdone yourself.
Guests parked in the state park across the lake and were ferried across by a pontoon. Isn’t that the most magical way to get to a wedding ceremony?

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Photography: Emily Crall Photography

Ceremony Venue: Private residence

Reception Venue: Lake Keomah State Park

Videography: Diamond Label Films

Florals: Shelly Sarver Designs

Cake Artist: Cheryl’s Sweet Shoppe

Caterer: Grate Expectations & India Cafe

DJ: A Special Event DJ

Makeup & Hair: The Hair Designers Salon & Spa

Bridal Gown: Allure Bridals from Alegria’s Brides

Maids’ Gowns: Jenny Yoo

Invitations & Paper Goods: Minted

Linens & Tableware: Say Yes Rentals

Tent, Tables, & Chairs: Pella Rental

Transportation: Hawkeye Stages