Autumn Wedding at Iowa State University

Jade & Clayton met and fell in love at Iowa State University in Ames, which is where we all returned to celebrate their nuptials on a warm afternoon in late September. There was so much joy and excitement throughout the day, and a few tears too. After several years of long distance, they finally get to be together forever! And back at the place where it all began (though we didn’t return to the dining hall where Jade first laid on eyes on Clayton..) And that’s worth a few joyous tears for sure!

Jade is one of the kindest people you’ll ever meet – always caring about others and full of smiles. And Clayton is just the same. I swear that you could not find two nicer people if you tried! So when I arrived to their hotel and they just welcomed me with open arms, it was the start to a wonderful day!

I’m totally in love with the navy and plum color palette that they chose!

Clay’s wedding ring was one of the more unique ones I’ve seen this year.

One thing you should know about Clay & Jade is that they are HUGE Iowa State basketball fans. So when they had the opportunity to have their first look inside Hilton Coliseum, they were all googly-eyed with excitement because they were combining one of the best parts of their wedding day with one of the things they love the most. Well, other than each other! It was super fun and exciting, and definitely memorable! They even made an appearance on the jumbotron!

ISU is one of the most beautiful campuses for a wedding – I loved photographing Jade & Clay’s bridal party and couple’s portraits there! So many great spots!

Jade and her men of honor!

I just love all of these!

A little trick for photographers: Jade and Clay have a pretty significant height difference, which can sometimes stump photographers since it can seem like posing is more difficult. For me, it doesn’t change things too much since I know that every couple, no matter how tall or short, has their own way of showing affection. I never need to remind a couple how to kiss or walk or hold hands – they know how to do that! But, for photographers who are looking for an easy way to equalize a big height difference, my number one tip is to have your couple sit down! It’s not a pose I do super often, but I always love it!