Who would’ve thought that a mid-August wedding in Iowa would be so comfortable? There was a lovely breeze and a lot of cloud coverage during the hottest part of the day so we had no issues walking around the lawns of The Conrad Mansion.
Nicolette and Casey met ten years ago (a fact that their families liked to point out on Saturday, saying, “Finally…!”) in downtown Iowa City and they have since graduated from college, moved to Chicago, bought a house, and traveled. So, while this day was a long time in the works, Casey said the timing was just perfect. They’ve grown together and become who they are as individuals as well as a couple.
(If you missed my little carrot hack, you can see here how I got the round perfume bottle to lay properly by the paper suite, haha.)
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Photography: Emily Crall Photography
Venue: The Conrad Mansion
Coordination & Design: Town or Country Events
Florals: Rustic Rose
Hair Styling & Makeup: BeautyOp
Hair Extensions: HG Studio
Bridal Gown: Bridal Boutique by New Name
Bridal Gown Redesigned by: Agadesal
Maids’ Gowns: AW Bridal
Suits: Skeffington’s Formalwear
Invitations & Paper Goods: Allegra
Jeweler: Fey & Co
Videographer: The Vine Productions
Catering: A Moment in Thyme
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Nicolette’s dress was stunning and had an amazing backstory. She purchased it from Bridal Boutique by New Name, a private boutique in Chicago “that creates a space for brides to have a top-notch bridal experience while simultaneously changing the lives of local women with their dress purchase. 100% of the proceeds go to benefit women who have been trafficked and exploited in the Chicagoland area.”
They have over 250 gowns of various designers, styles, and sizes from 50 to 80% off retail, with new gowns being donated weekly. Nicolette’s gown had a major redesign by Agadesal, who essentially created an entirely new dress out of original material. One of my absolute favorite details was the bustle being added on the side instead of the back! I’ve never seen that before, but it was so beautiful and added a gorgeous cascade down the side when it was hooked up. It was so easy to take up and down too so we played around with how it was the whole day.
Are we obsessed with her Blake Lively hair? We definitely are.
Their dog, Kujo, joined us for some of the photos and was the cutest ring bearer! I love petting him because his fur is so thick and soft. He’s like the warmest, cuddliest blanket.
Their ceremony was under the stunning canopy of trees and, though there were a few sprinkles of rain during their vows, no one ever felt them because of the thick coverage.
The flower girl, Brynne, had the cutest entrance I’ve ever seen. She’d toss some petals, then immediately start giggling and put her hands over her mouth. Then toss some more, more giggles. The entire way down the aisle this kept happening and it was adorable.
Isn’t this ceremony location a dream?
Before the dance floor opened up, we stole away outside for a few minutes for additional portraits. The sun peaked out and gave the best evening glow!
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