Jake and Emily met through friends at an ice cream social to kick off the new school year at Truman State University in Kirksville, Mo. She graduated that year and found a job in Iowa City. When Jake graduated a couple years later, Emily talked him into moving to Iowa City as well! Seven years later they were still living there, and that’s where they decide to get married. For their décor Emily said they didn’t have a theme or specific colors, but rather wanted everything to be colorful and fun instead of tying themselves to one idea or design element. A big thank you to Emily and Jacob for sharing all the details of their day, and to Laura for her lovely images.
Who, What, Where ~ Ceremony and Reception: North Ridge Park Pavillion. Photography: Laura Schmitt. Catering: Cottage Cafe and Bakery. Cake: Tip Top Cakes. Flowers: Heaven Scent Flowers and Gift Shop. Dress: Heart to Heart Bridal and Formal. Tux: Skeffington’s Formal Wear.
From the Bride…
I read about an ancient practice of a man and woman folding 1,000 origami cranes for their wedding. It’s said the time and energy put into the cranes symbolized the patience and trust necessary to sustain a happy marriage. I admit I folded most of them, but Jake was very supportive when I got tired of doing it. We hung them from the paper lanterns at the reception, used them on the programs, scattered them on the tables and filled vases with them.
My parents built us a gorgeous arch to use for the outdoor ceremony. We hope to own a house someday and put it in our yard. The music also was DIY project. We decided we didn’t want a DJ so we rented audio equipment and Jake spent a lot of time putting together a playlist for cocktail hour/dinner and then for the dance part of the evening. It was all music that we loved or meant something to us.
I wore a cross that several generations of women in my family have worn in their weddings. It usually is worn as a necklace, but my dress didn’t allow for it, so I found a bracelet that I could attach it to.
The wedding and reception were at a park that we live near and spend a lot of time in running or hanging out with the dog, so that is personal to us. We also shot in the comic book store, which is where Jake works and is something we both love. Also, the owner was our officiant at the ceremony, which was really special to us.
What was your favorite part of your wedding day? Neither of us can really pick a favorite, the whole day was a blast, from setting up to photos to ceremony to dinner to the excellent party that night. However, I am a little partial to one moment. After the ceremony as Jake and I made our exit, I looked over at him and he was crying (normally I am the crier but had stayed dry for once). I looked back at my sister, Cassie (the maid of honor), and Skip (the best man) to laugh about Jake crying and there was Skip, also crying. This of course made me tear up as I laughed. It was a sweet moment.
