They met at Iowa State, where they were lab partners their first semester of college. That winter, they went on their first date. Matt got Emma flowers, but since she was living in the dorm at the time, she didn’t have a vase so their first stop was to buy one. After that, they went out for dinner and bowling. Emma said, “I was terrified because I had liked him for a very long time by that point and wanted the date to go well.” (Spoiler: it did.)

Emma was shopping with her mom on the day that Matt proposed. “Before we got engaged, I had asked him to please propose to me when I had my nails done, but that day, they were not. My mom had dropped a million hints that I needed to get my nails done that day and even went to Ulta and bought me press ons, but I still hadn’t taken the hint. I was completely blindsided by the proposal,” she said. “We came back and Matthew had flower petals scattered and candles lit inside our apartment. He gave me a whole speech about how much he loved me and our relationship, but I don’t remember a single thing he said because I was so shocked. It was very sweet and the perfect proposal.”

We did their engagement shoot a year ago and it ended with a big storm rolling in. I guess the weather wanted a repeat because on their wedding day, it started bright and sunny and ended bright and sunny, but right there in the middle, during the ceremony time, rain poured. With quick work from the family and wedding party, the ceremony was moved indoors and the day went along perfectly.

We ended the evening with photos back outside and the most delicious ice cream from The Outside Scoop. (If given the chance, do not pass on the goat cheese & roasted cherries ice cream!!)

Photography: Emily Crall Photography

Venue: The Hidden Acre

Florals: Shelly Sarver Designs

Invitations: the bride herself, Emma

DJ: Clife DJ Company

Makeup: Ivory & Stone Artistry

Hair: Hair by Jenna

Bridal Gown: Schaffer’s Bridal Studio

Maids’ Gowns: Birdy Grey

Suits: Men’s Wearhouse

Videography: D.Barrett Studios

Musicians: Cedar Valley Strings

Catering: Peppercorn Food Company

Ice Cream: The Outside Scoop

These invitations made by Emma were a feast for the eyes (and hands!). The letterpress was absolutely gorgeous and the color palette was perfection!

This telephone (audio) guest book is so much fun both to use as a guest and to enjoy later as the couple!