Spring is here! We couldn't be more excited for the warmer weather and the green returning. You'll see some spring 2025 trends come to life in this issue including nature-inspired decor in our styled shoot. We are absolutely loving the bright florals, creative outdoor seating, and romantic pastels popping up this season.
We kick things off with a styled shoot at Harpors Vineyard with a woodland fairytale inspired wedding. Elizabeth Bliss Events and a team of talented Central Iowa vendors created a stunning look. Plus, the photography from Missie Lafrenz will be sure to inspire.
Make sure to check out the Wedding Choice Award winners to find all of the amazing award-winning vendors in Central & Eastern Iowa.
In “It’s My Big Day,” we highlight Courtney + Charles' Eastern Iowa romantic wedding, infused with classic touches. We love the dark green color palette that sets off the decor and invites.
Next, we celebrate Grace + Ross's wedding day in Central Iowa. It was a beautiful wedding with fun DIY touches and flash photography by Anna Jones Photography. The colors of the bridesmaid dresses and the getaway car from Foster's Limo added so much fun to the day.
We hope the photos and unique styles in this issue will inspire your planning journey. Don't forget to sign up to get the magazine FREE by mail at heartlandweddingideas.com/ido-crew-signup for more inspiration. Happy planning!
STYLED SHOOT: INTO THE WOODS 4-8
CALL OR TEXT: 515.635.1608 | EMAIL: info@HeartlandWeddingIdeas.com
WEBSITE: HeartlandWeddingIdeas.com
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We’re on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. For inspiring ideas, local weddings, events, and vendor spotlights, follow our feed: @heartlandweddingideas. IT’S MY BIG DAY: COURTNEY + CHARLES 26-33 Marissa Sakakhanone Designer + Digital Media Manager Kelly Visser Copy Editor
Special thanks to this crew:
STYLED SHOOT
Into the Woods
We love this khaki tux from Skeffington’s Formal Wear.
A dark woodland fairytale leaps off the page and into reality for this styled shoot! We loooove the mystical, moody vibes curated by Elizabeth Bliss Events and the talent from central and eastern Iowa wedding pros who delivered in the most magical way. The earthy details, emerald tones, and whimsical touches have us dreaming of a wedding day in the woods.
MEET THE WEDDING PROS
PLANNER & DESIGNER :
ELIZABETH BLISS EVENTS
ASSISTANT PLANNER: MERCEDES BURGER
PHOTOGRAPHER: MISSIE LAFRENZ PHOTOGRAPHY
CONTENT CREATION:
FIRE AND FERN CREATIVE
VENUE: HARPORS VINEYARD
DECOR: 11:11 EVENT CO.
FLORIST: ELLABANK BLOSSOMS
VINTAGE RENTALS: ANNATA VINTAGE CO.
BEVERAGE BURRO: APRES BAR CO.
CAKE: PARINDA CUPCAKES
DRESS: KALON BRIDAL STUDIO
SUIT: SKEFFINGTON’S FORMAL WEAR
MAKEUP: JULES LASH BEAUTY
HAIR: COPPER AND FRINGE
RINGS: VYTVIR.ETSY.COM AND WILLWORKJEWELRY.COM
MODELS: ALLYSSA AND WILLIAM MORRIS
love the earthy colors, textures, and patterns throughout.
We
Romance to the max with this gorgeous, tiered gown from Kalon Bridal Studio.
Now this cake is a work of art. Heart eyes all the way from
Parinda Cupcakes.
Missie Lafrenz Photography nailed the sunset lighting and detail shots, absolute photography magic.
Apres Bar Co. delivers creature comforts with Pedro the Beverage Burro!
CENTRAL & EASTERN IOWA
2025
Congratulations to the winners of the 2025 Central and Eastern Iowa Wedding Choice Awards!
We’re celebrating our 7th Annual Wedding Choice Awards in Central Iowa — and our first in Eastern Iowa! Over the years, we’ve proudly showcased the incredible talents of wedding professionals across Iowa, and now we’re thrilled to bring you the top vendors that couples agree are the best in the region. Be sure to check the winners out to help you create your perfect wedding day!
Thank You!
TO THE VOTING & EVENT SPONSORS:
Congratulations to the winners of the 2025 Central Iowa Wedding Choice Awards! Explore this year’s winners and find the vendors who can make your special day truly unforgettable.
SILVER // 515 Party Bus BRONZE // Majestic Limo & Coach
WEDDING INVITATIONS
GOLD // TandemHart Paperie
SILVER (Tie) // Ephemera
SILVER (Tie) // Laura Ellefson (formally Laura Engle Designs) BRONZE // Humble Hands
CALLIGRAPHY
GOLD // Laura Ellefson (formally Laura Engel Designs)
SILVER (Tie) // Ink & Oak Calligraphy
SILVER (Tie) // Anna Frederick BRONZE // Humble Hands
OFFICIANT
GOLD // DJ DAS Entertainment
SILVER // Forever and Ever, I Do!
BRONZE // Vows and Vibes
HISTORICAL OR RELIGIOUS VENUE
GOLD // Hotel Fort Des Moines
SILVER (Tie) // The Tea Room
SILVER (Tie) // Scottish Rite Consistory
BRONZE // The Rollins Mansion
MODERN OR CONTEMPORARY VENUE
GOLD // 1868 Farmhouse
SILVER // Alta House Event Center BRONZE // The Tea Room
BARN OR RURAL VENUE
GOLD // 1868 Farmhouse
SILVER // Red Acre Barn BRONZE // Alta House Event Center
WINERY, BREWERY, OR BAR VENUE
GOLD // Jasper Winery
SILVER // The Chateau at White Oak
BRONZE // Harpors Vineyard
COUNTRY CLUB VENUE
GOLD // Glen Oaks Country Club
SILVER // Des Moines Golf and Country Club
BRONZE // Des Moines Embassy Club
OUTDOOR VENUE
GOLD // 1868 Farmhouse
SILVER // Red Acre Barn
BRONZE // The Hive at Busy Bee
HOTEL AS A VENUE
GOLD // Hotel Fort Des Moines
SILVER // Surety Hotel
BRONZE // The Rewind Hotel
HOTEL FOR GUEST’S STAY
GOLD // Hotel Fort Des Moines
SILVER (Tie) // Surety Hotel
SILVER (Tie) // The Rewind Hotel
BRONZE (Tie) // Hilton Des Moines Downtown
BRONZE (Tie) // Des Lux Hotel
REHEARSAL DINNER OR WEDDING SHOWER LOCATION
GOLD // 1868 Farmhouse
SILVER // Big Grove Brewery & Taproom
BRONZE // The Iowa Taproom
CEREMONY MUSIC
GOLD // DJ DAS Entertainment
SILVER // A Special Event DJ
BRONZE // The Sound Doctor DJ & Photobooth
RECEPTION MUSIC
GOLD // The Sound Doctor DJ & Photobooth
SILVER // DJ DAS Entertainment
BRONZE // A Special Event DJ
PHOTOGRAPHY
GOLD // Jenna McEntee Photography
SILVER // Jason Thomas Crocker Photography
BRONZE // Laura Wills Photography
VIDEOGRAPHY
GOLD // Proper Films Co.
SILVER // Twelve One Projects
BRONZE // Masterson Media
PHOTO BOOTH
GOLD // SnapXP
SILVER // A Special Event DJ
BRONZE (Tie) // The Good Co. DSM
BRONZE (Tie) // Complete
Weddings + Events
BOUDOIR PHOTOGRAPHY
GOLD // Elaina Rose Boudoir
SILVER // Allie Lou Photography
BRONZE // Everlasting Photo
LIVE PORTRAIT PAINTER
GOLD // Kaylee Maasdam, Fruited Paint
SILVER // Sammie Jeanne Art
BRONZE // Suz, Des Moines Live Painting
TRAVEL AGENT SERVICES
GOLD // Good Trip, A Travel Co.
SILVER (Tie) // All About Travel
BRONZE // Allied Travel
CENTRAL IOWA WEDDING CHOICE AWARDS CONTINUED
CENTRAL IOWA
THE VENDOR CHOICE AWARD WINNER IS ...
Jason Crocker,
JASON THOMAS CROCKER PHOTOGRAPHY
Remarkable passion, unwavering support, and extraordinary talent. Jason consistently goes above and beyond for both clients and fellow vendors, dedicating time and energy to ensure everyone feels supported and valued. His love for the craft shines through every moment captured, and he is wholeheartedly committed to the wedding community — truly embodying the spirit of excellence and collaboration.
Jason was unable to join us the night of the award ceremony so a small surprise announcement was planned at his studio. Check out the video on the Wedding Choice Awards Facebook Page.
The Vendor Choice Award is voted on by wedding professionals to honor one of our own for their talent and drive to be a leader in this community.
Jason Thomas Crocker Photography
Congratulations to the winners of the inaugural Eastern Iowa Wedding Choice Awards! Couples have spoken and voted for the standout wedding pros in the area. Discover your perfect team for an amazing wedding experience.
WEDDING GOWN
GOLD // Embody Bridal
SILVER (Tie) // Hope's Bridal
SILVER (Tie) // Jocelyn Taylor Bridal and Prom
BRONZE // Brides by Jessa
TUXEDO
GOLD // Skeffington’s Formal Wear
SILVER // Milroy's Tuxedos BRONZE // Holley's Shop for Men
BRONZE (Tie) // Elmcrest Country Club BRONZE (Tie) // The Outing Club
OUTDOOR VENUE
GOLD // Bella Sala Event Center
SILVER // Wilson's Ciderhouse BRONZE // Little Lights on the Lane
HOTEL AS A VENUE
GOLD // Hyatt Regency Coralville
Hotel & Conference Center
HOTEL FOR GUEST’S STAY
GOLD // Hyatt Regency Coralville
Hotel & Conference Center
SILVER // DoubleTree by Hilton Davenport
REHEARSAL DINNER OR WEDDING SHOWER LOCATION
GOLD // Big Grove Brewery
SILVER // Me & Billy
BRONZE // Vue Rooftop
CEREMONY MUSIC
GOLD // Clife DJ Company
SILVER // Cedar Valley Strings
BRONZE // Unique Events
RECEPTION MUSIC
GOLD // Clife DJ Company
SILVER (Tie) // Nathan Kabat
SILVER (Tie) // Ultimate Entertainment Iowa
BRONZE // Bee All You Can
Bee Wedding DJ
PHOTOGRAPHY
GOLD // AP Film & Photo
SILVER // Olivia Katherine Photography
BRONZE // Ivory+Bliss
VIDEOGRAPHY
GOLD // Complete Weddings and Events
SILVER // Lost Pine Photo & Film
BRONZE // Rhoads to Memories
Videography
PHOTO BOOTH
GOLD // Clife DJ Company
SILVER // The Snap Wagon
Photo Booth
BRONZE (Tie) // Complete Weddings and Events
BRONZE (Tie) // Pixel Pop
Photo Booth
BOUDOIR PHOTOGRAPHY
GOLD // Grace Marie Photography
SILVER (Tie) // Maryam Thompson
Photography
SILVER (Tie) // Stephanie Marie
Boudoir Photography
BRONZE // Amanda Dee Photography
TRAVEL AGENT SERVICES
GOLD // Marvelous Mouse Travels
SILVER // Sol Sisters Luxury Travel
BRONZE (Tie) // Coast 2 Coast
Enchanting Travel
BRONZE (Tie) // Visit the Magic Travel
Nothing Compares
TO A WEDDING AT THE FAIRGROUNDS
TO A WEDDING AT THE FAIRGROUNDS
TO A WEDDING AT THE FAIRGROUNDS
Celebrate your special day at the Iowa State Fairgrounds. Historic buildings, modern facilities and picturesque outdoor settings await you and your guests. Enjoy free, close parking for your guests, an accessible location and a staff ready to assist you with every detail.
Celebrate your special day at the Iowa State Fairgrounds. Historic buildings, modern facilities and picturesque outdoor settings await you and your guests. Enjoy free, close parking for your guests, an accessible location and a staff ready to assist you with every detail.
Celebrate your special day at the Iowa State Fairgrounds. Historic buildings, facilities and picturesque outdoor settings await you and your guests. free, close parking for your guests, an accessible location and a staff ready to assist you with every detail.
To schedule your wedding at the Iowa State Fairgrounds, visit iowastatefairgrounds.org or contact Off Season Events at 515-262-3111, ext 282.
To schedule your wedding at the Iowa State Fairgrounds, visit iowastatefairgrounds.org or contact Off Season Events at 515-262-3111, ext 282.
To schedule your wedding at the Iowa State Fairgrounds, visit iowastatefairgrounds.org or contact Off Season Events at 515-262-3111, ext 282.
Photo Credit:
CINDY BAUER PHOTOGRAPHY & DESIGN
COURTNEY + CHARLES
ELEGANT VOWS COURTNEY + CHARLES
We love the timeless emerald green, black, white, and gold elements throughout.
Courtney and Charles’ journey to the altar started in 2019 at a “no-costume” Halloween get-together with mutual friends. As soon as Charles walked into the apartment, he made a beeline to introduce himself to Courtney. The two ended up talking all night and quickly became inseparable. Their connection was instant and undeniable, setting the stage for their future together.
When it came to the proposal, Charles definitely caught Courtney by surprise! Despite saying it wouldn’t happen in 2022 or in Iowa, he waited until the last few hours of the year to pop the question, all while standing in front of a giant Christmas tree in Downtown Des Moines. Just the two of them, their closest friends, and a photographer to capture the magic made for a moment they’ll never forget.
The couple was inspired to have a romantic, classic, and chic wedding day — with personal touches woven throughout that showcased their relationship and stayed true to their values.
“The most important piece of the planning process for us was that we really wanted the day to feel like ‘us,’” Courtney explains. “It was really important to us to remain true to who we are, what we value and what mattered to us that day.”
One way they made the reception more personal was by creating a massive 9x7-foot photobooth backdrop filled with favorite photos from their love story as well as photos of their dog Willow. They were also fortunate to have Courtney’s mom create all of the stunning floral arrangements, adding even more of a personal touch to their special day.
EASTERN IOWA
Throughout the planning process, Courtney and Charles were very thoughtful in selecting their vendors. They immediately fell in love with Eastbank Wedding Venue in Cedar Rapids — not only because it was a beautiful space — but also because of their helpful guidance and the option to work with an on-staff day of coordinator who helped make the day absolutely phenomenal.
Another important part of their day was to make their celebration feel like, well, a celebration! They wanted to make sure the party was rocking, so they chose to work with Clife DJ Company to bring the energy and fun. And wow, he did just that! He kept the dance floor going all night, plus it was an added bonus that he was local to Eastern Iowa.
“The most memorable moment for us was sitting at the reception, looking around and seeing all of our loved ones in one room celebrating us together,” Courtney says. “It was also really cool to see everything you worked so hard on for the last two years come together.”
Reflecting on the big day, the couple’s biggest piece of advice is to not feel pressured to follow traditions just because they’re expected. Stay true to what matters to you both and make your day as unique as your love story.
Well said! Congratulations on the beautiful beginning of your life together.
Courtney is GLOWING in this elegant off-theshoulder dress from Modern Dress.
We love this photo wall as a photobooth backdrop!
COURTNEY + CHARLES
WEDDING MOOD
WEDDING STYLE
CLASSIC, ROMANTIC
COLOR PALETTE
VENDOR LUST
PREMIER VENDORS
Reception Music Clife DJ Company
ALL VENDORS
Photographer Susan Manning Photography
Ceremony Venue First Lutheran Church Cedar Rapids | Reception Venue Eastbank Venue
Caterer Peppercorn Catering | Cake & Dessert
Molly’s Cupcakes | Wedding Dress Modern Dress
Groom’s Suit Mr. B’s | Groomsmen’s Suits
Suit Shop | Bridesmaid’s Dresses Azazie | Hair
Hair by Frankie Sue | Makeup Megan Neuhaus
Jewelry Iowa Diamond | Event Planner & Coordinator Courtney at Eastbank Venue | Transportation T&D Party Wagon | Hotels
DoubleTree Cedar Rapids | Rehearsal Dinner
Elmcrest Country Club
Clife DJ Company brought the dance floor to life — and kept it rocking all night.
CHARMING I-DO'S GRACE + ROSS
The soft lighting and vintage feel made the photos from the day feel ethereal thanks to Anna Jones Photography.
Grace designed all the stationery and signage herself.
Grace and Ross’s wedding day was the perfect mix of vibrant, fun, and heartfelt moments.
Their love story kicked off in 2015 at Iowa State University. What started as texting quickly turned into an easy connection and 7.5 years of “growing up” together as a couple while they both navigated finishing school, finding themselves, and establishing their careers.
They had long known they wanted to get married, so they decided to work together with Owens Jewelry Designs to create a custom engagement ring — but after the ring decisions, Grace wanted the rest of the proposal to be a surprise — and Ross really pulled off it off. During a family photo session, Ross dropped to one knee with a sweet, heartfelt speech and asked Grace to marry him. It was a picture-perfect moment, made even better by the fact that their families were there to celebrate with them right away.
Planning the wedding was all about creating something that was inviting, colorful, and charming — in a nutshell, something that felt uniquely “Grace.” They envisioned a spring vibe but didn’t want to wait for spring, so they decided to bring the bright, fresh energy of spring into a November wedding. The result? Bold pinks, purples, oranges, and reds, blended with playful bunny lamps, velvet bows, and gemstones, set against the gorgeous traditional and timeless backdrop. Every detail came together in the most darling, personal way.
IT’S MY Big DAY CENTRAL IOWA
The ceremony took place at Central Presbyterian Church, and the reception was at The Tea Room, a venue gorgeous, timeless venue that delivered on the Des Moines charm. Grace’s wedding dress from Bridal Boutique in East Village was an absolute dream, and when she added the veil, she couldn’t hold back the tears — it was better than she could have imagined.
In many ways, Grace had a specific (sometimes indescribable) vision for their wedding day, so finding the right photographer was very important. And my oh my, did they find the right person in Anna Jones. She captured the day just as Grace envisioned, keying in on the most gorgeous details and special swoon-worthy moments. The couple worked hard to keep their marriage at the center of the planning process. While Grace loved all the décor and DIY elements, she says the best part was working with Ross to choose their vows and the quiet moment of reflection together before the ceremony began.
“The ceremony was truly the moment Ross and I most looked forward to. We never lost sight of what the planning was all for — our commitment to each other,” Grace shares.
They also kept family and friends at the heart of the celebration, and many were involved in making the day special. Grace’s family friend Dawn Shaw baked the lovely and delicious wedding cake and desserts, and the couple could even feel the presence of Grace’s Grandpa Bill who passed away a few months before the wedding. She credits the 40–50-degree, blue sky November day to his love from Heaven.
“Our celebration wouldn’t have been the same without the thoughtful touches from those we care about most,” Grace says. “So many of the people there had been by our sides since we met so we truly understood it wasn’t just a day we were excited for — it was one they had all been looking forward to as well.”
Cheers to Grace and Ross! Their wedding day was the most perfect start to their forever!
The getaway car from Foster Limo was the perfect escape.
Adorable! We love these bows.
GRACE
WEDDING MOOD
WEDDING
ROMANTIC,
COLOR PALETTE
VENDOR LUST
ALL VENDORS
Photographer Anna Jones | Ceremony Venue
Central Presbyterian Church | Reception Venue and Bartending The Tea Room | Caterer
Lidderdale Country Store | Floral Hy-Vee, West
Des Moines | Bride’s Dress Bridal Boutique, Watters Abigal | Hair Kelly Degnan | Makeup
