EDITORS' LETTER STYLED SHOOT: DREAMING OF VINTAGE 8-15
With cooler weather comes the hustle and bustle of weddings and engagements. We hope that you find our magazine and we can be a resource as you plan your wedding.
We are excited to kick off the issue with a vintage inspired styled shoot brought to us by Honey Lens Photography. The stylings by Borrow My Vintage and florals from Parrot Floral Co. come alive in the photos and really set the tone for this one-of-kind wedding look!
Check out our Cake & Dessert vendor LUST section to meet and be inspired by our incredible wedding pros.
Our first 'It's My Big Day' in Eastern Iowa features Meghan + Ryan's modern black and white wedding. We are in love with Meghan's classic long sleeved, lace gown from Modern Dress.
Next, we go to Central Iowa for a western-glam celebration at Red Acre Barn with Kylee + Jake. You'll wish you could have attended when you see how much fun this bride and groom had — it even had an outfit change!
Please continue to send us your beautiful photos and love stories for a chance to be featured in our 'It's My Big Day' section. Don't forget to visit us at heartlandweddingideas.com for additional content and wedding professionals.
CALL OR TEXT: 515.635.1608 | EMAIL: info@HeartlandWeddingIdeas.com
WEBSITE: HeartlandWeddingIdeas.com
Follow us! We’re on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. For inspiring ideas, local weddings, events, and vendor spotlights, follow our feed: @heartlandweddingideas.
Breaking news
#1 Rated Spray Tan Salon in Cedar Rapids, IA!
Bare Tones owner, Katrina, has been mentored by the industry's leading Celebrity Spray Tan Artists! With an emphasis on skin hydration, and organic ingredients!
Being orange is a thing of the past! We custom match your unique undertones and add colors that correct and block any brassy colors that come through.
Another preventative is customizing solution blends that best meets your skin color, without over exposing you!
Check our our REAL Bridal Clients on our website! Ask about the Bridal Party Package!
STYLED SHOOT
Dreaming of Vintage
Vintage dreams are coming true in this styled shoot curated by Alissa of Honey Lens Photography. She carefully assembled an incredible team of women-owned vendors from across Eastern Iowa to create this romantic boho moment — and we are here for it. From the textures and colors to the delicate details to the gorgeous venue, it’s good vibes and creative excellence all the way.
MEET THE WEDDING PROS
HOSTING PHOTOGRAPHER
HONEY LENS
PHOTOGRAPHY
STYLING / DESIGNER
BORROW MY VINTAGE
FLORAL PARROT FLORAL CO.
VENUE
WALNUT RIDGE VENUE
HAIR & MAKEUP
NEW BEAUTY AURA
WEDDING DRESS
THE BRIDAL GARDEN
TUX CAMERON’S & HENKLE CREEK CAKE
MOO’S BAKERY
MODELS
JOSH AND MIRA BOYCE
These chairs are like a warm hug from Borrow My Vintage.
These little blooms woven into the braid are just too perfect.
The off-the-shoulder gown is an absolute showstopper from The Bridal Garden.
The tones and textures across this tablescape are perfect for the fall season.
This bridal bouquet from
is absolutely incredible. There’s something new to see every time you look!
Parrot Floral Co.
Just three miles north of Boone, Iowa, the historic 1868 Farmhouse has been beautifully restored to offer a range of features and amenities. The property includes two elegant getting-ready suites, a charming brick courtyard, a wraparound porch, and three picturesque outdoor ceremony locations. The modern reception hall was added in 2020, providing space for up to 280 guests across from the main house.
One of the standout perks of choosing this venue is the complimentary access to their extensive decor collection — an exceptional value that can significantly reduce your wedding expenses!
MODERN RECEPTION HALL
Steps away from the main house with seating for up to 280.
HUGE DECOR INVENTORY
Access to our 500 + decor inventory
ONE OF THE OLDEST FARMHOUSES IN BOONE
With loads of historic charm, it sits on a picturesque country landscape.
SUITES & OVERNIGHT ACCOMMODATIONS
Two getting-ready suites, plus our bridal bunkhouse sleeps nine.
AMENITIES & MORE
Extras like our charter bus, day-of-event coordination, outdoor bar, entertainment area, and so much more!
VENDOR lust
SPOTLIGHT
ON CAKE & DESSERT
THE ART OF CHOOSING THE PERFECT WEDDING CAKE
Choosing the ideal wedding cake is not just about dessert — it's about finding a centerpiece that reflects your style, delights your guests' taste buds, fits seamlessly into your wedding theme, and stays within your budget.
STYLE & VIBE
The style of your wedding cake should harmonize with the overall theme and aesthetic of your wedding. Think about the design elements that appeal to you — whether it’s classic elegance, modern minimalism, rustic charm, or something whimsical and unique. From intricate sugar flowers to delicate piping, the details on your cake can add a personal touch.
And it doesn't have to be just a white cake, coordinate the colors with your wedding palette. Whether you prefer pastels, bold hues, metallic accents, or a simple white cake adorned with fresh flowers, ensure it complements your overall decor. Discuss with your baker how these elements can be customized to match your vision.
FLAVORS & TASTE
While aesthetics are important, if it doesn't taste phenomenal, what's the point! Consider both traditional and innovative flavors. Classic options like vanilla, chocolate, and red velvet are always popular, but don’t hesitate to explore unique combinations such as lemon raspberry, salted caramel, or even matcha green tea!
The filling can elevate the flavor profile of your cake. Whether you prefer fruit preserves, decadent mousses, or flavored buttercreams, discuss options that complement your chosen cake flavors.
MULTIPLE OR SINGLE TIER
Tiers on a wedding cake can vary based on factors such as guest count or just visual preference. After all, you don't have to feed your entire wedding with the cake you cut, a single tier cake + sheet cakes can be a budget friendly option.
Classic tiered cakes are a timeless choice, often featuring three or more layers. They can create a grand focal point at your reception. Single-tier are considered more personal and just for the couple. You can always pair that with a table full of cupcakes for your guests to pick their flavor and enjoy. You can also experiment with varying heights for a modern twist. This can add visual interest and dimension to your cake display.
ENJOY YOUR SWEET DESSERT!
We know you'll find a baker and create wedding cake that not only looks stunning but also delights your guests with its deliciousness! Let your cake be a sweet reflection of your love and celebration on your special day.
OUR PREMIER BEAUTY PROS:
The Bake Shoppe // Glorious Desserts // Hy-Vee Bakery
The Bake Shoppe
Glorious Desserts
VENDOR
lust
ATTIRE & TAILORING
Merci's Tailoring
CEDAR RAPIDS, IA mercistailoring.com
Skeffington's Formal Wear DES MOINES, IA skeffingtons.com
BEAUTY & WELLNESS
Bare Tones
Organic Spray Tanning Bar
CEDAR RAPIDS, IA baretonescr.com
dsm Salon DES MOINES, IA dsmsalonandspa.com
vIVid Wellness / Aesthetics / Lifestyle DES MOINES & NORWALK, IA livin-vivid.com
Wandering Sage Massage DES MOINES, IA wanderingsagemassage.com
CATERING
Baratta's DES MOINES, IA barattas.com
Bash DES MOINES, IA bashdsm.com
Cedar Ridge Distillery SWISHER, IA cedarridgedistillery.com
Hy-Vee Catering & Deli IOWA hy-vee.com/stores
The Iowa Taproom DES MOINES, IA iowataproom.com
Lidderdale Country Store
CENTRAL IOWA lidderdalecountrystore.com
CAKE & DESSERT
The Bake Shoppe WINDSOR HEIGHTS, IA thebakeshoppe.org
Glorious Desserts WINDSOR HEIGHTS, IA gloriousdesserts.com
Hy-Vee Bakery IOWA hy-vee.com/stores
BARTENDING & DRINKS
Apres Bar Co. DES MOINES, IA apresbarco.com
Your Private Bar WEST DES MOINES, IA yourprivatebar.com
Hy-Vee Bakery
DECOR & RENTALS
Bella Flora Event Design
URBANDALE, IA bellafloraeventdesign.com
Beyond Elegance Party Rentals WEST DES MOINES, IA beyondelegance.com
Era Events & Design
DES MOINES, IA eraeventdesign.com
Royal Rental Co., Restroooms IOWA rentwithroyal.com
Shelly Sarver Designs PELLA, IA shellysarverdesigns.com
EVENT PLANNING
Bella Flora Event Design
URBANDALE, IA bellafloraeventdesign.com
Complete Weddings + Events CLIVE, IA completewedo.com
Des Moines Wedding Show CENTRAL IOWA desmoinesweddingshow.com
Eastern Iowa Wedding Show IOWA CITY / CEDAR RAPIDS easterniowaweddingshow.com
Era Events & Design
DES MOINES, IA eraeventdesign.com
Shelly Sarver Designs PELLA, IA shellysarverdesigns.com
FLORAL
Bella Flora Event Design URBANDALE, IA bellafloraeventdesign.com
Hy-Vee Floral IOWA hy-vee.com/stores
Shelly Sarver Designs PELLA, IA shellysarverdesigns.com
VENDOR
MUSIC
Complete Weddings + Events CLIVE, IA completewedo.com
DJ DAS Entertainment
DES MOINES, IA dj-das.com
Vows & Vibes DES MOINES, IA vowsandvibes.com
OFFICIANT
Vows & Vibes DES MOINES, IA vowsandvibes.com
PHOTOGRAPHY
Complete Weddings + Events CLIVE, IA completewedo.com
Everlasting Photo CENTRAL IOWA everlastingphotoia.com
Midwest LifeShots Photography DES MOINES, IA midwestlifeshots.com
SnapXP – Photobooth WEST DES MOINES, IA snapxp.com
lust
STATIONERY & GIFTS
Humble Hands DES MOINES, IA humblehandsjg.com
TandemHart Paperie DES MOINES, IA tandemhartpaperie.com
TRAVEL
Mosaic Shores Travel Co. DES MOINES, IA mosaicshores.com
VENUES
1868 Farmhouse BOONE, IA 1868farmhouse.com
Barnes' Place ADEL, IA barnes-place.com
Bash DES MOINES, IA bashdsm.com
Cedar Ridge Distillery SWISHER, IA cedarridgedistillery.com
The Chateau CAMBRIDGE, IA whiteoakchateau.com
VENUES (CONTINUED)
Curate DES MOINES,, IA curatedsm.com
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden DES MOINES, IA dmbotanicalgarden.com
Iowa State Fairgrounds DES MOINES, IA iowastatefairgrounds.org
The Iowa Taproom DES MOINES, IA iowataproom.com
Old Brick IOWA CITY, IA oldbrick.org
Pella Opera House PELLA, IA pellaoperahouse.org
Prairie Meadows Event Center ALTOONA, IA prairiemeadows.com
Scottish Rite Consistory DES MOINES, IA dmscottishrite.org
Sherwood Forest Event Center DES MOINES, IA sherwoodforesteventcenter.com
Sunset Ridge Barn PROLE, IA sunsetridgebarn.com
World Food Prize, Hall of Laureates DES MOINES, IA halloflaureates.org
Finding that perfect gown, dress, tux, or suit for your big day is a magical moment. To look your best, you'll still need the final touch of a tailor to make sure it fits like a glove. Unless you happen to fit the designer's exact measurements (and let's face it, who does?!), adjustments are often necessary. Even if you think it fits perfectly, a professional will give it that final polish.
While many specialty shops offer in-house alterations, if yours doesn't handle specialty requests or you didn't purchase your attire locally, that's even more reason to find an expert tailor. Merci's Tailoring in Cedar Rapids can step in. Whether it's a wedding gown, a formal suit, bridesmaid dress, or a casual outfit, Merci's Tailoring ensures every detail is handled with precision.
reflect your style perfectly!
Their process is meticulous yet personal. Beginning with precise measurements, they work closely with you to understand your vision. From simple tweaks to complex alterations, Merci's Tailoring will get you that flawless fit and reflect your style perfectly.
No matter where you find your dream attire, Merci's Tailoring, which has served the Cedar Rapids community for over 30 years, is your destination for achieving the perfect fit. Because when it comes to your special day, every detail matters.
Merci's Tailoring will get you that flawless fit and
Lavishly large or quietly quaint. Boho, rustic, or modern. Small budget or unlimited. And everything in between. We know you poured your heart and soul into it. And we want to feature it!
Submit your wedding day photos for a chance to be in an upcoming issue at heartlandweddingideas.com
MEGHAN + RYAN
KYLEE + JAKE
MEGHAN + RYAN
HIGH SCHOOL SWEETHEARTS
How gorgeous is Meghan’s custom pear-shaped engagement ring?
Meghan and Ryan’s love story began as high school sweethearts and even through long distance during their college years, they knew they were meant to be together forever.
After much coordination with Meghan’s bestie, Ryan popped the big question during a flower picking trip at Wilson’s Orchard in Iowa City. It wasn’t a complete surprise for Meghan, but it sure was a picture-perfect way to begin their engagement.
The couple has always envisioned a classic and intimate vibe for their wedding day. This guided their decisions, but budget was also an important factor in dreaming up their big day.
“We were in college when we started planning, so we were mindful of our budget. It meant being smart shoppers, meeting with vendors and sleuthing Instagram to make selections that were both in our style and budget,” Meghan shares.
The Carriage House in Cedar Rapids made for a perfectly intimate setting for both the ceremony and reception, plus it offered some promotional perks as a new venue. The space’s timeless vibe paired with thoughtfully simple details — black and white color scheme, twinkle lights, delicate bud vases with simple white flowers and greenery — made for the gorgeous, timeless day they wanted.
Meghan originally imagined wearing a sleek, fitted, and simple gown. That immediately changed when she spotted her “princess” gown at Modern Dress. She wore earrings that were the diamonds her father gave her mother when she was born.
IOWA
Meghan planned a first look with her dad, which led to a very special memory of the day. When seeing her dad for the first time, their favorite song “Take it Easy” by the Eagles coincidentally came on. It was so special because he has always been influential in her love of 80s/90s rock.
The couple was very selective when it came to choosing their photographer. After much searching, they fell in love with Brooke Pavel Photography because of her true and timeless editing style. Meghan says she wanted to see the day captured the way they saw it — and Brooke did just that!
Another vendor match made in heaven was Kyrie Copeland Films. From the get-go in the video planning process, Kyrie was inclusive and welcoming of all couples — something Meghan appreciated because she and many of her friends and family are part of the LGBTQIA+ community.
“We of course loved her talented videography skills but were elated to have a
vendor so open about supporting the queer community,” Meghan shares.
The wedding day flowed flawlessly thanks to the coordination of Sarah Bergan at Vowed Vintage. From keeping everything running on time to coordinating with caterers from Hy-Vee in Coralville to serve a delicious meal to organizing extra rentals from R&D Events — Sarah and the outstanding team of vendors made the day a wonderful experience for the couple and guests alike. “We stayed true to our wishes and made our dream day come true,” Meghan says. “We still have guests rave about how beautiful the day was and how it reflected our love.”
Join us in raising a glass to a lifetime of love for Meghan and Ryan!
Love the simple bud vases created by E’s Floral!
MEGHAN +
WEDDING
MOOD
WEDDING STYLE
MODERN, CLASSIC, SWEET
COLOR PALETTE
VENDOR LUST
PREMIER WEDDING VENDORS
Caterer & Cake
Hy-Vee Catering Coralville
ALL WEDDING VENDORS
Photographer Brooke Pavel Photography
Videographer Kyrie Copeland Films
Ceremony & Reception Venue The Carriage
House | Floral E’s Florals | Wedding Dress
Modern Dress, Beccar | Bridesmaid's Dresses
Birdy Grey | Tuxes Generation Tux | Hair Ingrid at Aurora Blush Bridal | Makeup Morgan at Aurora
Blush Bridal | Stationery Minted | Pet Napkins
EdingerPress Etsy | Rings Hands Jewelers
Ceremony & Reception Music Schulte Sounds
Extra Rentals R&D Events | Coordinator Sarah
Bergan, Vowed Vintage | Transportation Hawk
Bus Properties | Hotel The Hotel at Kirkwood
Center | Bridal Shower Jasper Winery
Nothing Compares
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, 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.
Kristin Imboden Photography
KYLEE + JAKE
WESTERN GLAM I-DO'S
From sentimental moments to gorgeous details, Kylee and Jake’s big day had it all. And even then, they added an extra splash of glam and revelry that will be remembered for decades to come.
Kylee and Jake poured a lot of time and heart into planning their big day. For them, it was most important to make sure the day represented their love and was an experience both they and their guests would enjoy and remember.
Working with an incredible team of vendors was one of their favorite parts of planning. Some of the many outstanding vendors included Lori Evans with Bliss Events & Staffing who coordinated the day, Beyond Elegance which nailed the extra rentals and Midwest Blooms who created absolute floral magic.
“They were there every step of the way and it felt like they cared so much about our day,” Kylee says. “We even met with some vendors to go through details over dinner or while playing arcade games together.”
The couple decided to say private vows before the ceremony. It was one of the most memorable moments because it gave them time to be candid, let emotions out, and intentionally speak the words they will live by for the rest of their lives.
During the ceremony, the officiant asked them to take a moment to look out at their guests. It left the couple feeling so overwhelmed with love and gratitude. It was made even more sentimental when their moms joined them at the altar to light candles, and Kylee’s cousin — who has been like a big brother and father figure after her dad passed when she was 16 — walked her down the aisle alongside her mom. Kylee wore a stunning v-neck beaded dress from Bridal Connection. She was absolutely
radiant with her long blonde curls adorned with delicate pearls. The classic bridal look was taken to the next level with her simple earrings and Louboutins.
As they moved into the wedding reception, which was catered by the always-delicious Lidderdale Country Store, Kylee swapped the classic bridal look for diamond hoops, rhinestones in her hair and rhinestone kitten heels. Then when it was time for the dance floor, she splurged for a rhinestone dress with fringe, cowboy hat and boots.
“While I love to get dressed up and feel elegant and timeless, it was such a fun outfit change that let me move and dance and show the other side of my personality,” she says.
They couldn’t let the fun stop with Kylee’s outfit change. They had light up cowboy hats for guests to grab and wear on the dance floor.
Every detail, special moment, and joyous dance move was captured perfectly by Everlasting Photo. She absolutely nailed the assignment.
Reflecting on the planning process, Kylee shares, “At the end of the day, you probably won’t remember exactly what you ate or at what time each event happened. You will remember how you felt seeing your spouse for the first time or how you feel beside all your friends and family.”
That’s a getaway car!
from their neighbor.
The couple borrowed the 1959 Chevrolet Chevelle with blue interior
Apple Cider Donuts are a must when you get engaged in a pumpkin patch.
KYLEE + JAKE
WEDDING MOOD
WEDDING STYLE
WESTERN, GLAM
COLOR PALETTE
VENDOR LUST
PREMIER WEDDING VENDORS
Photographer Everlasting Photo
Caterer
Lidderdale Country Store Catering
Ceremony & Reception Venue Red Acre Barn
Videographer Graphic Formation Films
Cake & Dessert Little Blackbird Bakery, Center
Grove Orchard | Floral Midwest Blooms Co.
Wedding Dress Bridal Connection, Colby John
Veil Ivory Bridal Co. | Reception Dress Amekana
Bridesmaid's Dresses Modern Dress | Suits
Bridal Connection | Hair EB.HAIR, Salon Muse
Makeup Afterglow Pro Studio | Nails Chic Nails & Beauty Bar | Facials Coachlight Clinic & Spa
Engagement Rings & Wedding Bands Iowa
Diamond | Ceremony & Reception Music
A Special Event DJ | Extra Rentals Beyond Elegance | Coordinator Bliss Events & Staffing, Lori Evans
