Back at their engagement session, we naively joked that we were getting the rain out of the way and their wedding day was going to be absolutely perfect. And while, spoiler, their wedding day did end up as a perfect day, the tears and stress that occurred before getting there were numerous. Getting married in 2020 during a worldwide pandemic is no easy feat and the decisions and moving pieces involved in even determining if it’s worth it are many. At one point, we were chatting about them rescheduling their wedding to next year, then we also talked about doing a really small ceremony on their original wedding date and still rescheduling the big event. Finally, Nicole and Matt landed back on keeping the wedding as planned and moving forward with plans, facing whatever challenges that would involve.

And while a pandemic was not on our radar back at their engagement session, at least we were aware of it for the past several months now and have been able to figure out plans for masks, sanitizer, meal service, etc. What we could’ve never seen coming was a derecho–an inland hurricane with 100+mph winds–whipping through Iowa just 6 days before their wedding, knocking down trees, power lines, and damaging everything in its path. It wasn’t until Friday afternoon, less than 24 hours before the wedding, that Rapid Creek finally got electricity back and we could all breathe again. At one point last week, Nicole had texted me to tell me that there was still no power at their venue and that there was a lot of downed trees. “We will still be able to find spots for pretty pictures, right?” she asked. I promised her we would and I am so so so happy to share with you some of my favorite images from the day, including, Nicole, so many pretty pictures! I promise.

Nicole’s dad passed away when she was a senior in high school and she wanted to find ways for him to be part of her wedding day, including a way for her to “walk” her down the aisle. “My dad was the BEST. You would have loved to meet him, Emily. He could make anyone laugh and was one of my best friends. He gave me my love for sports and always told me I could be anyone I wanted to be when I grew up. I think he helped me believe I could be a doctor and I think I am a more compassionate physician because I lost him when I was young.” Later on during what would have been her father/daughter dance, Nicole danced with several men who have played an important role in her life, including her grandpa, her now father-in-law, her sister’s husband, and her nephews. I have teared up at many weddings, but I’ve never cried like I did during that song.

Because of COVID-19, masks were provided for those who didn’t bring their own and colored wristbands were put out so you could indicate your comfort level with being close, hugging, etc.

This was the funniest part of the entire day when I had given instructions for Matt to pop the champagne, then lean over and kiss Nicole while the champagne was spraying. Instead, this happened.

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Photography: Emily Crall Photography

Wedding Coordination & Design: Soiree

Videography: Nepo Productions

Florals: Studio Bloom

Cake Artist: Deluxe Bakery

DJ: Riley Mullane

Makeup: Lindsey Coblentz & House Of Beauty

Hair: Domonique L’Heurex & Eden Salon

Bridal Gown: Stella York From Hope’s Bridal

Maids’ Gowns: Azazie

Suits: Skeffington’s Formalwear

Invitations & Paper Goods: Allegra Iowa City

Decor & Draping: Unique Events

Lounge & Tablewares: Borrow My Vintage

Lettering & Signage: Painting For Cheese

Venue & Catering: Rapid Creek Cidery