I don’t even know where to begin sharing about this perfect day. The excitement these two had for becoming husband and wife was the sweetest thing to witness. Every detail was so intentional and their focus was on the most important thing – getting married!
The day began with gorgeous bridal details. With various shades of blue and an array of colorful florals, I don’t think you could’ve chosen a more perfect combination for a summer wedding. Joya slipped into her dress and all the bridesmaids came up the stairs to see her for the first time – there wasn’t a dry eye between them all! Just as we were preparing to leave so Joya and DJ could share a first look, DJ called Joya and the two shared a sweet moment just saying how they couldn’t wait to see one another
After all kinds of portraits in a rural pasture outside of Kalona, everyone headed into the Kalona Mennonite Church for the ceremony. Boy was it nice to cool off after spending the last few hours outside in the sun! This was one of the most intentional and special wedding ceremonies I’ve witnessed. Joya’s sisters played instruments, two different pastors in Joya and DJ’s lives shared parts of the service, and their parents shared a time of prayer before the announcement of the new couple.
The ceremony concluded and everyone drove to a farm outside of Kalona for the reception. There was a huge white tent with lots of lights strung throughout it. Every detail was curated and beautiful. The head table was adorned with thrifted antique plates and guests were seated in the cutest old chairs. A few family members shared toasts and I snuck away with the couple for some gorgeous sunset portraits. Guests watched as the sun set behind a hill and the evening ended with yard games and a bonfire. This day is a perfect example of a classy summer wedding in rural Iowa – I couldn’t love it more!
Photography | Katie Decker Photography
Ceremony Venue | Kalona Mennonite Church
Florals | Petals
Dress | Luv Bridal Denver
Bridesmaids Attire | Baltic Born
Groomsmen Attire | Men’s Wearhouse
Beauty | Autumn Schlabach
Videography | Avery Schwartz
Catering | Miller Homestead Cooking
