I first met Natisha (Tish) when she was a first year student at Grinnell College. I was actually in the process of resigning from my position working with students in order to focus on photography full time, and so while I didn’t get to know her incredibly well, when she reached back out to me nearly 7 years later asking if I would photograph her wedding, I instantly remembered her! In that timeframe, she had reconnected with a guy she knew from high school – Josh! They had actually gone to homecoming one year, but didn’t start dating until after they had both graduated from college. Eventually they both found their way back to their hometown, started chatting, and it just didn’t stop! Fast forward to Christmas 2017, and Josh proposed with the help of their pup Maverick. She said yes!
Tish and Josh planned their wedding in their hometown, a way to commemorate and celebrate where it all began! We gathered in La Porte City for their ceremony, and then headed to Henderson Events Center in Independence for their reception. But first…we started the day off with some primping and details with the ladies.
Her custom ring was designed by Iowa Diamond.
How adorable is this little flower girl? I loved her floral crown!
Tish got ready at her grandmother’s house, which was a blast from the 70s in terms of decor, but a lovely and personally significant spot to get ready.
We had a first look with her dad, and then he escorted Tish to her first look with Josh.
We have photographed a lot of winter weddings, and while I know some people don’t love indoor photos, when you have a beautiful church, there are always ways to make something incredible for photos. I love these!
I will never grow tired of this floral design – rich burgundy colors, white, and navy were definitely the trend of 2018!
All the little ones, and of course one had to show us how silly he could be at the opportune moment. Lol!
Married!The first snow of the year and it was perfectly times for a few outdoor portraits!
One of Josh and Tish’s special request was to visit relatives that were unable to make it to the wedding that live in an assisted care facility. While many couples are eager to get on a party bus and have a good time, their devotion to family and consideration for their grandparents was one of the most heartfelt moments I’ve ever seen. We visited with Tish’s grandmother, and Josh’s great grandparents, and several other family members joined as well.
This sweet moment….
After our visit to the care facility, we head over to the Henderson Event Center in Independence for a beautiful reception!
Tish’s sister in law gave such a meaningful toast, thanking the couple for how sweet they have been to their kids.
Some tasty treats for everyone – they were delicious! From Kathy’s Kates
If I don’t get emotional during the ceremony, it usually happens during the first dances. Maybe because it’s such a significant moment, but watching parents give their children away and bless them, to me it is so incredibly significant.
Time to dance!
This is the second time we’ve photographed a wedding in Independence, and it was great to be back! You can view our other Henderson Events Center wedding here.
Congratulations to Josh and Tish! I think it’s safe to say you might be my last Grinnell alumni wedding who I knew as a student for a while!
Jennifer Weinman Photography is an Iowa based midwest & destination wedding photographer, serving Des Moines, Iowa City, Cedar Rapids and surrounding areas. Also available for senior & family portraits, and boudoir photography.
This is the second time we’ve photographed a wedding in Independence, and it was great to be back! You can view our other Henderson Events Center wedding here. 
