Bright colors, texture for days and a love to last a lifetime. Katie and Matt’s summer wedding in Iowa City was such a fun affair. When we first met, it was so clear that these two were a team and the planning process was a dream.

When we first met on a wet and chilly day at the neighborhood Starbucks, I could tell that these two were something extra special. Matt is a groom who wanted to be involved in the planning, which was so refreshing to me! They were both so excited, eager to learn about all things wedding and clear about the few things they did know they wanted. An awesome candy table, bright colors and unexpected elements for a barn wedding. With that, we had many Skype dates, with the two of them living in Chicago, and coffee dates when they were in town. Planning and designing with Katie and Matt felt like time spent with friends making their dreams come true – not work for a second!
The story behind those patches, made beautifully by McKay from Oatmeal Lace, was shared with me on a random winter afternoon via email. Matt shared that one day during RAGBRAI, the two of them rode an extra 100 miles in one day in order to receive a patch. Being an Eagle Scout, patches are important for Matt and a fun detail that I couldn’t let go untouched.The best part was, neither of them had a clue until minutes before the ceremony when I presented them to each of them.

Their pastor and dear friend, Craig, came in from Chicago to officiate their wedding ceremony. There was so much joy and love in the sanctuary and the tradition laced with personal touches. One of my favorite parts was that Matt waited for Katie midway down the aisle and they processed together up to the altar, embarking on the journey as partners!

Any bride that feels so elated and beautiful to twirl is my kind of girl! 

When designing the flowers for Katie and Matt, they wanted to use these beautiful wooden roses, coupled with natural elements. The various textures used in the overall design lent themselves to a natural industrial feeling with a pop of color.
In addition to the beautiful patches that we had made, I also worked with Ashley at Big Yellow Dog to make buttons for all of the guests. We added them as napkin band fasteners and carried that detail to every place setting.  These two are absolutely kids at heart and another surprise, compliments of Katie’s mom, was a fun candy table with jumbo size treats! 

Katie and Matt, thank you from the bottom of my heart for being so welcoming and such wonderful friends! I cannot wait to see what adventures you embark on in the years to come. Cheers to the Super Married Middles!!

xoxo, Jenn

Design, Styling & Execution: Harper Hadley Events | Photography: Katharyne Dunn Photography | Venue: Ceremony – Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, Reception – The Celebration Farm | Graphic Design & Stationery: Andi’s Invites | Embroidery: Oatmeal Lace | Rentals: Spielman’s; Covington & Co. | Lounge Furniture: Unique Events | Cake: Scratch Cupcakery | Floral Design: HHE | Hair & Make Up: Flip Salon & Spa | Music: DJ Insanity | Catering: Coe College Catering & LJ’s Catering | Transportation: Petsel Express Party Lines; Black Diamond Limousine