We ended 2018 on a high note – with this gorgeous winter wedding in Riverside and Cedar Rapids, and celebrating with one of my favorite couples, Spencer and Mollie! One of the things I loved most about working with them and their families was how warm, welcoming, and FUN they were throughout the entire day (and process!).
I will always be grateful for the opportunity I had to photograph their engagement session in Las Vegas (which I don’t know if I’ve shared on here yet!!!) because it really solidified a great connection with them and I had such a better sense for what Spencer and Mollie are as a couple. They love exploration, adventure, good food and good beer (I’m sure wine is on that list too!) and their family. They’ve traveled all over the country in the last year, literally packing up their life every few months to transfer to new hospitals as traveling nurses. They’ve somehow managed to keep a sense of “home” because they are together wherever they go. I don’t think they could make it work any other way 🙂
They made their way back to Iowa, where it all began, to pledge their vows and celebrate with an AWESOME party with their friends and family, and I think the best part about the day is it really brought together all the people that have been on MANY adventures with them in one place. When they turned and looked at their guests during their ceremony, you could just see their eyes filling with gratitude.
Without further ado, let’s get to the pretty photos!
We started the day at Riverside Casino for getting ready. They reserved a suite that was PALATIAL and I have to say, I was a big fan. Brides – take note! Having LOTS of space for your bridal party to prep is soooooo nice!
Might be a tad obsessed with her oval halo diamond ring. Simply stunning!
Mollie’s Allure Bridals dress is without a doubt one of my favorites from 2018! It was the perfect style for her.
I love that they are both laughing before they even see each other 🙂
A girl and her Uggs – can’t beat that!
I have to stop here and give a huge thanks to Mollie and Spencer for trusting us. This little spot near their church was muddy and wet all around except one tiny spot, and it was NOT easy to get to. And they totally did it and trusted us that it would look amazing. So glad we made this little portrait spot happen!
The lace overlay on Mollie’s dress was beautiful!
In LOVE with the florals provided by Farm Fresh Florals! They were gorgeous.
I often have people ask me what indoor photos look like for bridal party or family photos, and these are a good example of what you can expect. We know how important it is to families to record all of the people who were present, so we definitely don’t miss those!
One of the big perks of having a wedding close to the holidays is there’s usually lots of beautiful decorations already. Their church was full of twinkle lights and Christmas trees – it was magical!
This moment is always the one where I get choked up – the vows are so meaningful!
Married at last!
Their getaway car!
Mollie and Spencer met while at Coe College in Cedar Rapids, and so we revisited where it all began! We only spent about 5 minutes there before heading to Eastbank Venue for their wedding reception.
The same spot they had their first kiss!
Beth captured this hilarious shot of one of the groomsmen!
Such a fun group – truly!
We made our way to their reception at Eastbank Venue, where the party continued on with delicious food and a live band!
Table numbers commemorating their world travels. I loved this idea!
Pro tip: instead of sparkler exit, do a faux sparkler exit/entrance! Mollie and Spencer knew their night was going to go late, and instead of keeping the sparkler entrance for the very end, we had JUST the bridal party grab sparklers and do a few faux “exits” BEFORE they entered their reception inside Eastbank. This was actually REALLY fun! It’s also a tiny bit safer with fewer people…and we did it several times! Lol!
I think this was take 3 – a final run through!
I love how FUN these two are! They are seriously the best.
Many thanks to Diamond Empire Band for the awesome live music! If you’re looking for an incredible band for your wedding, I highly recommend them!
Congrats to Mollie and Spencer! If you ever want to fly me out to Seattle or wherever your next adventure takes you for another photo session, I’m ALWAYS up for it! <3
Ceremony: St Mary’s Catholic Church in Riverside
Getting Ready Venue: Riverside Casino
Reception Venue: Eastbank Venue & Lounge
Florals: Farm Fresh Floral
Catering: Jerry & Margie’s Catering
Live Band: Diamond Empire Band
Photography: Jennifer Weinman Photography
Videography: Diamond Label Films
Bridal Gown: Sarah’s Bridal Gallery – Allure Bridal
Tuxedos: Men’s Warehouse
Bridesmaid’s Dresses: Jenny Yoo
Hair and Makeup: Eden Salon & Spa
