Twin Cities Photography | Sarah McGee Photography

{Warning:  Very long, image-heavy post ahead!}

Hannah & Eric were married yesterday in the Church of the Land at the Living History Farms in Des Moines, Iowa.  This was a “destination wedding” for me, but not for the couple.   I cannot imagine a more perfect day or a more perfect setting for an autumn wedding.  Check out that blue sky and the rustic chapel.

There were beautiful autumn decorations everywhere, including these sunflower wreaths on the doors.

And gorgeous bouquets in shades of orange with turquoise accents.

Here’s Hannah’s dress:

And Hannah getting into her dress, with the help of her bridesmaids:

Eric was nervous and so excited to see his bride:

I love this picture, mostly because you can see Eric’s sister Rose peeking through the window:

Eric & Hannah walked through the Living History Farm’s replica town from the year 1875.  There were so many great places to take photos, and many people wishing them well along the way.

Then we rounded up the bridal party for some casual and fun group portraits outside.

The sun was bright and lower in the sky, so I used it to our advantage in lots of the pictures.  Isn’t it so pretty?

We also did all of the family formal portraits inside the beautiful chapel, including ones with the cute ringbearer and flowergirl.

Moments before the ceremony started.  You can see some of the guests mingling at the front of the church, while Eric and Hannah hide out back.

The wedding rings and part of the program:

Here’s the flowergirl dropping silk leaves instead of petals:

Hannah and her dad walking down the aisle.  You can see the shimmer in her eyes at the full resolution.

Lots of beautiful singing:

A packed house:

The exchange of rings:

A dramatic exit, with rose petals flying!

The reception was held at the nearby Des Moines Golf and Country Club.  We took advantage of the golden hour and the beautiful fall foliage for a few more group pictures:

Then it was on to the reception!  There were so many little details at the reception, including a tower of delicious cupcakes in all sorts of flavors, instead of a wedding cake:

And still a beautiful cake for the traditional cake cutting:

The newlyweds first dance:

And lots more fun dancing.

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I’ll post a few more photos over the next week or so on my Facebook page, so if you’re not a fan, become one to get my updates!

Hannah & Eric:  Congratulations on your marriage!  Enjoy your Hawaiian Honeymoon!