I knew going into this wedding day that it was going to be filled with so much joy and love, but, truly, I was still blown away by Monica and Cory and their families and friends.

Their first date was in mid-2019, but they had met almost a decade before. They reconnected in 2018 because Monica planned several events for her job at Big Grove Brewery, where Cory works, and they quickly became friends. They were meeting for drinks at Red’s (ironically, the restaurant where they had first met) and “it was supposed to just be two friends, meeting for a drink! But I think we both quickly realized that we didn’t want it to end. The next day, we met up again – and the rest is history. I remember it just felt easy and comfortable. And we laughed – a lot,” Monica says.

Now, with a beautiful one-year-old daughter (look how much she’s grown since their engagement session!), they formally pledged a life of love and friendship together.

Their wedding weekend was packed with celebrations! On Thursday, they hosted a happy hour at Red’s Alehouse where they had first met. On Friday, they had their wedding ceremony, followed by dinner and dancing at Walker Homestead. Then on Saturday, with a larger guest list, they hosted a marriage celebration at Big Grove Brewery.

These gloves are Monica’s grandmother’s as well as the pearl earrings and necklace.

Faye’s teeny little dress next to Monica’s!

The masterpiece that is this cake. Adam, truly…!

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Photography: Emily Crall Photography

Wedding Coordinator: Soiree Wedding Planning

Florals: HyVee Waterfront

Cake Artist: Tip Top Cakes

Venue & Catering: Walker Homestead

DJ: TJ Entertainment

Hair & Makeup: Aurora Blush

Paper Suite: Allegra Iowa City

Bridal Gown: Anthropologie