On New Year’s Eve, Emily & Nick were married in her family church in Iowa City. The irony is that Emily & Nick both grew up in in town, but never met until they were in medical school together at the University of Iowa. They now live in Minnesota for their residencies, but came back to be married in the place where it all started…and where a lot of their families live!

Their stunning classic black tie wedding was a huge celebration of not only their brand new marriage, but also of the new year and the joy of many of their old friends all making it back to the college grounds where they all met!

Emily & Nick, since in medical school, started their relationship in the books. Literally. They became study partners and their first official date was actually at a coffee shop with another couple–a double date that Emily still says he tricked her into (read about it here)–that gave way to late night drinks of the non-coffee variety.

On the morning of their wedding, the ladies prepped and relaxed in her suite at the hotel. That calm environment is my favorite thing to walk into. It starts my part of the day off on such a great note and ensures that my only job (emotionally) is to continue to carry that spirit calmness throughout the rest of the day.

Each of Emily’s bridesmaids picked out their own gown and I loved being able to use a variety of textures (the sequins!) for backgrounds in her detail shots.

This clutch was made for Emily’s sister for her wedding. It was made from the lace and detailing from their mother’s and grandmother’s wedding dresses and has each of their monograms and wedding dates now embroidered inside.

This Amsale gown was so beautiful. The fabric had the most exquisite texture, it was really soft and lightweight, and it was a ballgown style (which you know is my favorite)! Bonus: I loved the low back too!

It was a really, really cold day–it is December in Iowa after all–but we lucked out with some sunshine. There was a frigid breeze, which eventually forced the decision to move family photos inside, but we tried to use buildings to help block the wind for the rest of the photos. Winter brides are stronger women than I am.

I loved this spot to showcase some of Iowa City’s old architecture, but also as a bonus, we were able to pull some green into the photos, even though it’s terribly drab outside. God bless the evergreens.

After the ceremony, all the guests headed a few blocks west to the Iowa Memorial Union for cocktail hour and the reception.

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Photography: Emily Crall Photography

Florals: Waterfront Hy-Vee

Cake Artist: New Pioneer Co-op

Caterer: University Catering

DJ & Uplighting: Unique Events of Iowa

Makeup: Lindsey Coblentz

Hair: Groovy Katz

Bridal Gown: Amsale from Posh Bridal Boutique

Maids’ Gowns: Nordstrom

Suits: Men’s Wearhouse

Invitations & Paper Goods: Zephyr Weddings

Strings: Preucil School of Music

Venue: Iowa Memorial Union

Ceremony: First United Methodist Church