I flew down to Arizona last February for Alice & Abhijeet’s engagement session, just a few weeks before the pandemic shut everything down. At that time, we were all still planning on their wedding happening in the fall. But when the pandemic hit and we all realized the seriousness and longevity of the situation, Alice & Abhijeet made the difficult decision to reschedule. They knew there would be a lot of guests and family traveling for their wedding, including themselves!, and it made a lot more sense to reschedule.

And while their day was filled with extreme happiness and so much joy, there were still some very important people missing, including Abhijeet’s sister and brother-in-law, who couldn’t make it from India because of the lockdown. (Thankfully, his parents and nephew arrived in the States the day before the most recent lockdown and they were able to be there!) It is my hope, even more than usual, that this blog post filled with so many pieces of their wedding day help the people who couldn’t be there to feel like they are when they scroll through the photos. 

Last Friday was cold and rainy and miserable so it was with great relief that the sun shone on Saturday and we could ditch the coats for some sweaters. (You really just never know in Iowa, do you?) We started the day at the Marriott, where everyone was getting ready, and then headed out to Rapid Creek Cidery for the ceremony and reception.

This handkerchief has been used for generations! The earliest date is November 1900 and now most recently: May 2021.

Alice and her dad had a first look; it is always so special to see a father’s reaction to his daughter on her wedding day.

Then Alice & Abhijeet saw each other for the first time and there were the sweetest tears.

Out at Rapid Creek Cidery, we had a golf cart to use and so we were able to go to this location, which is on the other side of the creek and never accessible on a wedding day unless you have a golf cart to get there. It’s just such a beautiful spot and I’m so glad we could use it!!

Girlllllll….

They made the drive from Arizona to Iowa and brought their dog, Hilton, along, one of them sitting in the backseat with her the whole way. I’m so glad we were able to get some photos with her on their wedding day!

I adore these colors so much and, if I must prove the point, I unintentionally showed up at the wedding wearing them; a blush pink sweater with a maroon skirt! It was both hilarious and awesome.

In lieu of a unity candle, Alice & Abhijeet poured soil from both of their homes (Iowa and India) on this tree and watered it.

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Photography: Emily Crall Photography

Wedding Coordinator: Soiree Wedding Planning

Videography: Diamond Label Films

Florals: Studio Bloom Iowa

Cake Artist: Tip Top Cakes

DJ: ProSound

Hair & Makeup: Moods Salon & Spa

Paper Suite: Allegra Iowa City

Bridal Gown: Martina Liana from Bella Lily Bridal

Maids’ Gowns: Azazie

Suits: Generation Tux

Decor & Rentals: Borrow My Vintage & Unique Events

Musicians: Corridor String Quartet

Venue & Catering: Rapid Creek Cidery 

Transportation: Black Diamond Limousine

Golf Cart: Lincolnway Golf Cars