Iowa Farm wedding: Allison + Neil
It was such on honor to photography Allison and Neil’s Iowa farm wedding. They got married on the farm where Allison grew up. Neil is my baby brother! The whole family thought he might not ever get married but Allison was worth the wait for him. We are so glad that she is part of the family!
As told by Allison
How did you meet and fall in love?
We met in our teens through mutual friends but I don’t remember a specific meeting. Our “groups” just knew each other. I would say we fell in love 20 some years later when we reconnected to catch up. It was intended to be a mutually platonic “catch up”, but over months of talking, laughing, sharing, getting to know the whole Neil… I knew that he was the person I wanted to just “be” with. (Having an amazing sister-in-law obviously helped)
How did you choose your venue?
The ceremony was at a family farm with over 100 years of family history. For the reception, we were in Chicago for Neil’s holiday party and loved the vibe. No stuffy tables that people would be forced to have awkward conversations with. We looked for a place that could recreate this vibe.
What were your thoughts leading up to your wedding day?
I hope it is good weather and holy crap, we have so much to do. We had to create everything for the wedding from scratch. Run a power cord through a field for sound. Rent benches, pick them up, set them up, lots of physical work.
What was your favorite part of the day?
The ceremony. It was personal.
What is your favorite images from your wedding and why?
Us walking down the isle after getting married. We looked relaxed and happy.
Is there anything that you would change?
I would consider a different reception place that didn’t require guests to travel so far from the ceremony to the reception (It was about a 30 minute drive). We might’ve considered a California venue for a more intimate setting and more reliable weather but we loved our Iowa farm wedding!
What is your best advice to anyone planning a wedding?
Don’t do what others want or expect you to do. Do you. You’ll waste a lot of time, energy, and stress if you try to make others happy.
That being said, we were in our mid 30’s and paying for the event ourselves. This allowed us to have independence from others expectations. Also have your amazing sister-in-law photograph your wedding (that’s me)
I will do almost anything to get a great photo!
Vendors:
Reception: Chop Eleven
Flowers: Scent from Heaven
I love to travel for weddings and would love to hear about yours! Let’s chat!
