As the season shifts, we’re reminded why we love telling these stories so much. Every couple, every celebration, every detail carries its own meaning — and this issue is full of moments that feel both deeply personal and beautifully timeless.
We’re thrilled to share this issue’s styled shoot, where a talented team of Central Iowa wedding professionals created a soft, romantic garden party straight out of a painting. It’s layered, artful, and full of inspiration.
We're also celebrating our Iowa couples! From Laura and Jesse’s elegant Central Iowa celebration filled with thoughtful surprises and a packed dance floor, to Taylor and Cole’s heartfelt Eastern Iowa wedding rooted in family, tradition, and a love that’s grown since their teenage years, these stories are proof that the best weddings are the ones that feel true to you. Different styles, different paths — the same kind of joy.
We hope these pages spark ideas and excitement as you plan your day. And don’t forget — you can join our I-Do Crew for even more inspiration and a free mailed copy of the magazine at heartlandweddingideas.com/ido-crew-signup.
Here’s to meaningful details, unforgettable celebrations, and love stories worth telling.
lesha B. XOXO,
EMAIL: info@HeartlandWeddingIdeas.com
WEBSITE: HeartlandWeddingIdeas.com
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HWI MAR/APR 2026
STYLED SHOOT: ROMANCE IN BLOOM 4-8
IT’S MY BIG DAY: LAURA + JESSE 12-18
IT’S MY BIG DAY: TAYLOR + COLE 20-24
VENDOR LUST: SPOTLIGHT ON BEAUTY & ATTIRE 26-30
Special thanks to this crew:
Marissa Sakakhanone Designer + Digital Media Manager
COVER: LAURA WILLS PHOTOGRAPHY
EDITOR'S PHOTO: BROOKE SUMMERS
PUBLISHER: HEARTLAND WEDDING PARTNERS
PRINTING: SUTHERLAND PRINTING
Kelly Visser Copy Editor
Romance in Bloom
What a dreamy vision from Jennifer Weinman
Photography
In every corner of this enchanting garden party, a talented team of Central Iowa wedding vendors led by Jennifer Weinman Photography, created a scene at The Clubhouse at Talons that feels plucked from a Monet painting — soft pinks, lush roses, delicate layered textures, and glimmering golden accents. It's pure inspiration for couples dreaming of a wedding day that feels like a true work of art.
MEET THE WEDDING PROS
VENUE
The Clubhouse at Talons
PHOTOGRAPHY
Jennifer Weinman
Photography
FLOWERS & RENTALS
Honey & Joy Events
LINENS
Nuage Designs
WEDDING DRESS
Kalon Bridal
TUXEDO
Skeffington’s Formal Wear
BEAUTY
Powder Studio
CAKE
Parinda Cupcakes
INVITATIONS
Somos Studios
The natural light in this space is incredible.
The detail on the cake was like a watercolor painting come to life.
This Skeffington’s Formal Wear white tuxedo jacket makes the evening extra glam!
She looks ethereal in this full-length veil.
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
LAURA + JESSE
TAYLOR + COLE
LAURA + JESSE
LOVE IN THE GLEN
Laura and Jesse kicked off their forever with an unforgettable wedding day. The timeless, polished details blended with family, friends, and energy to reflect their intentional and joyful relationship.
The couple first crossed paths while attending Iowa State University. They didn’t start dating until after college, but once they did, their relationship grew and soon Jesse was ready to pop the big question and wow – he totally surprised Laura!
On their way to a “double date” they made a quick stop at the Des Moines Art Center for a “selfie,” when Jesse popped the question along the rose garden path. Two of Laura’s best friends were secretly there to capture the moment, and the night wrapped up with a surprise engagement party at Coa Cantina, where family and friends were waiting upstairs to celebrate.
For their wedding day, the duo knew they wanted something timeless they’d still love years down the road. A black-and-white color palette gave the day a clean, classic look, while still leaving plenty of room for personality. Glen Oaks Country Club provided the perfect setting — elegant but welcoming, and ideal for both heartfelt moments and a packed dance floor.
Jesse, Laura, and her mom assembled a vendor team they trusted completely to pull off their perfect day. Kelly with Bella Flora handled florals and design, adding layers of texture and style that elevated the space without overdoing it. And Simply Stunning Events, led by Shannon, kept everything running smoothly behind the scenes.
“We got a lot of ideas from Pinterest and social media, but they weren’t exactly what I wanted. So, I would show Kelly or Shannon a picture and described how I would want it tweaked to
The bubbles as they left the ceremony, danced in the sunlight.
CENTRAL IOWA
match our style and ran with it to make all the final touches truly right for us,” Laura says.
One fun, last-minute detail turned into a total standout. Just a week before the wedding, Laura met Glenn Waterhouse at the Goodguys Car Show and fell in love with his vintage teal Chevrolet Bel Air. Glenn generously brought the car to Glen Oaks for the wedding, giving Laura her “something borrowed” and “something blue” in the most memorable way!
The couple gives big kudos to DJ DAS for making their day shine. Pulling in both Mexican and traditional American wedding music, he created a playlist that kept guests on the dance floor all night and made everyone feel included. “DJ DAS brought patience, organization, and creativity to our blended wedding featuring both Mexican and American traditions. He handled this with ease and poise!” Laura shares.
And as always, Jenna McEntee Photography captured all the details — from quiet, meaningful moments to the full-on celebration — perfectly reflecting the joy and energy of the day.
Laura’s advice to couples planning a wedding? “Do what works well for you! Getting excited for the big day to marry your partner is the best but having a party to enjoy during that same time is a gift. Plan each detail with all guests in mind. Have a strong vendor team with you to lead the way with confidence on the day of your wedding for you to enjoy each and every moment!”
Jesse and Laura’s wedding was proof that a timeless celebration can still feel personal, sparkly, and a whole lot of fun. Cheers to the beautiful couple!
Stunning all white bouquets from Bella Flora.
LAURA + JESSE
WEDDING MOOD
WEDDING STYLE
ELEGANT, TIMELESS, ROMANTIC
COLOR PALETTE
VENDOR LUST
PREMIER VENDORS
Ceremony & Reception Music
DJ Das Entertainment
Tux Skeffington’s Formal Wear
Photobooth snapXP
ALL VENDORS
Photographer Jenna McEntee Photography
Videographer Twelve One & Co. | Ceremony, Reception & Catering Glen Oaks Country
Club Cake Lindsey Hill | Floral, Rentals, Decor & Design Bella Flora Event Design
Wedding Dress True Society by Belle Vogue
Bridesmaids Dresses Show Me Your Mumu
Hair Salon Arrow, Whitney and Carly
Makeup Vanity and Glamour Cosmetics, Sharla
Tanning Tanique | Nails Nailed It Aesthetic
Nails | Invites Ephemera | Jewelry Bremer
Jewelry and Josephs | Event Planner Simply Stunning Events, Shannon | Antique Car
Glenn Waterhouse Officiant Pastor Pat Quaid, Hope Lutheran Church | Hotel Rewind Hotel
Rehearsal Dinner Malo
Such pretty details of the day captured by Jenna McEntee Photography.
We can count on DJ DAS to get the party started!
TAYLOR + COLE
VINEYARD VOWS
Taylor and Cole’s love story began long before wedding mood boards and vendor spreadsheets — back in high school, when Taylor was 14 and Cole was 15. And from that point on, they were inseparable. What started as a teenage romance quietly grew, rooted in growing up together and choosing each other every step of the way.
When it came time to propose, Cole planned a special surprise for their road trip to Charleston, South Carolina, with their cocker spaniel, Georgia. Just as the sun was setting on the beach, Cole popped the question, literally spelling out “Will you marry me?” in a hangman-style setup. With pizza, perfect weather, their pup by their side — it was the best beginning to their next chapter together.
Taylor and Cole knew they wanted a celebration that was classic, timeless, elegant wedding day that was filled with heartfelt family touches. Vendor selection and Pinterest planning was a labor of love, and every choice paid off.
As Iowa City natives, the couple wanted to have their special day close to home. They opted for the Walker Homestead to set the scene for both their ceremony and reception with unmatched charm. The care of the venue owners — Bob and Kristy — really shined through and Taylor says it’s place they already can’t wait to return to the venue for future milestones.
IT’S MY Big DAY EASTERN IOWA
The event planners, designers, floral extraordinares at White Willow Events, Alex and Tasha, perfectly curated the entire vibe and classic style in the couple’s vision while also helping ensure the day ran smoothly. We absolutely love the black, white, silver, and antique touches that seamlessly fit the celebration.
From the get-go, Taylor and Cole knew they wanted to work with Laura Wills Photography because of her ability to capture emotion seemingly effortlessly. They cherished working with videographer Drew Barrett who documented the day in a way that allowed them to stay fully present in the moment.
Beyond the outstanding vendors, the couple thoughtfully asked their family members to be involved in the day in special ways. Cole’s father, Scott, officiated the ceremony, making it incredibly meaningful for all attendees from the start, and his grandmother, Melanie, read
a short verse during the ceremony. Taylor’s stunning wedding dress was complemented by sentimental jewelry choices. She wore her mother’s earrings and necklace, originally gifted by her grandfather, as well as a second wedding band engraved with Taylor’s father’s signature of her maiden name — a cherished gift from Cole’s parents.
“We had our family present, closest friends in our wedding party stand up with us, people travel to attend – we feel so grateful for it all. We truly feel we are so lucky to be surrounded with such loving, incredible people,” she says.
One of the couple’s most special memories from the day was slipping away to the vineyard for a sunset photoshoot. While they soaked in the quiet time together, they watched their guests enjoying cocktail hour from afar — laughing and celebrating in their honor — which meant the world as they began their lives together.
This white tux from Skeffington’s Formal Wear is too good.
It was the perfect serene day overlooking the vineyard and countryside.
has such perfect settings for each stage of the day.
Walker Homestead
A family friend handmade Taylor’s second dress entirely from scratch!
Each table place card was hand calligraphed by Cole’s grandmother.
TAYLOR + COLE
WEDDING MOOD
WEDDING STYLE
CLASSIC, TIMELESS, ELEGANT
COLOR PALETTE
VENDOR LUST
PREMIER VENDORS
Tux Skeffington’s Formal Wear
ALL VENDORS
Photographer Laura Wills Photography
Videographer D. Barrett Studios
Ceremony & Reception Venue Walker Homestead
Caterer Walker Homestead | Cake Iced Bakery
Floral White Willow Events — Boesen
Wedding Dress Dany Tabet, Rosalie Bridal
Bridesmaids Dresses V. Chapman, Azazie
Hair Terra Hartley and Kelsey | Invites Papier |
Jewelry Herteen & Stocker | DJ JM3 DJs | Event
Planner White Willow Events, Alex and Tasha |
Caricature Artist Booked through About Faces | Transportation Charters on Vine, Trolley
Love the vintage charm of the dishware of each place setting.
OUR WEDDING
AT THE
HIMAGINE YOUR WEDDING AT THE
L
Hall of Laureates
au
fect location to celebrate ur special day. uilding in the heart of dow diates a rich history every modern amenity necessary for your entire wedding.
From the first look to the first dance, the Hall of Laureates is the perfect location to celebrate every moment of your special day. This historic building in the heart of downtown Des Moines radiates a rich history with every modern amenity necessary for your entire wedding.
YOUR RENTAL INCLUDES:
YOUR RENTAL INCLUDES:
Hall of Laureates - 3 Levels!
Private Garden
Hall of Laureates - 3 Levels!
250 Gold Chiavari Chairs
Private Garden
75 Tables in a Variety of Sizes
250 Gold Chiavari Chairs
Numerous Photo Locations
75 Tables in a Variety of Sizes
Space for Dancing!
Numerous Photo Locations
Space for Dancing!
VENDOR lust
SPOTLIGHT ON ATTIRE & BEAUTY
FIND YOUR PERFECT LOOK
Shopping for your perfect wedding gown, dress, suit, or tuxedo is an exciting time, filled with anticipation and dreams for your day. As you begin shopping, be aware that designer sizing is VERY different from department store sizing. Many sizing charts are based on European couture standards from decades ago. This means the numbers on the tags can be misleading. Instead, focus on what fits your shape and plan for necessary alterations, rather than stressing over the size label.
Come prepared with inspiration! Bring photos or a Pinterest board to help the stylist understand your vision. Having a clear idea of what you like will make the shopping experience smoother and more enjoyable. Specialty boutiques offer one-on-one assistance, helping you find a silhouette you might not have considered. They're professionals for a reason!
Don’t forget to bring your preferred undergarments and shoes to ensure a proper fitting. And of course, invite a few trusted friends or family members whose opinions you value.
Remember, ordering and altering take time, so start early! Even for “off-the-rack” items and tuxedos need a proper fitting. Scheduling it well in advance ensures everything fits perfectly for your big day!
Once you’ve booked your hair and makeup team, be sure to schedule a trial. This is your chance to test looks, fine-tune details, and make thoughtful adjustments so everything feels right on your wedding day. Bring inspiration photos, but remember styles look different on everyone — clear, kind communication helps your beauty team deliver a look you truly love and feel confident wearing.
It’s also important to plan ahead for your wedding party. Decide where everyone will get ready and be upfront about costs, timing, and style expectations to keep the morning running smoothly.
Amid the planning, don’t forget about self-care. Staying hydrated, scheduling a facial, or booking a spray tan trial can help you feel relaxed, polished, and camera-ready when the big day arrives.
OUR PREMIER BEAUTY PROS:
Beauty Op // Hello Darlin' Glam
Beauty Op
D'Luxe Tux
Bridal Connection
Langel & Woods Clothiers
Hello Darlin' Glam
Photo credit: Everlasting Photo
VENDOR
ATTIRE & TAILORING
Bridal Connection
ANKENY, IA bridalconnectiondsm.com
D'Luxe Tux
CEDAR RAPIDS, IA dluxe-tux.com
Langel & Woods Clothiers
WEST DES MOINES, IA langelwoods.com
Skeffington's Formal Wear
DES MOINES, IA skeffingtons.com
BEAUTY & WELLNESS
Beauty Op
NORTH LIBERTY, IA beautyopbysm.com
Hello Darlin' Glam
DES MOINES, IA hellodarlinglam.com
CATERING
Baratta's DES MOINES, IA barattas.com
Cedar Ridge Distillery SWISHER, IA cedarridgedistillery.com
Hy-Vee Catering & Deli
DES MOINES // CORALVILLE hy-vee.com
CAKE & DESSERT
ChaCha’s Hiland Bakery
DES MOINES, IA chachashilandbakery.com
Glorious Desserts
DES MOINES, IA gloriousdesserts.com
Hy-Vee Bakery
DES MOINES // CORALVILLE hy-vee.com
DECOR & RENTALS
Beyond Elegance Party Rentals
WEST DES MOINES, IA beyondelegance.com
Era Events & Design
DES MOINES, IA eraeventdesign.com
Royal Rental Co., Restrooms IOWA rentwithroyal.com
DRINKS & BARTENDING
Apres Bar Co. DES MOINES, IA apresbarco.com
EVENT PLANNING
Complete Weddings + Events CLIVE, IA completewedo.com
Des Moines Wedding Show CENTRAL IOWA desmoinesweddingshow.com
Eastern Iowa Wedding Show
CEDAR RAPIDS, IA easterniowaweddingshow.com
Fort Dodge Regional Bridal Show
CENTRAL IOWA fdbridalshow.com
Era Events & Design
DES MOINES, IA eraeventdesign.com
Omaha Wedding Show OMAHA, NE omahaweddingshow.com
Skeffington's Formal Wear
VENDOR
FLORAL
Hy-Vee Floral
DES MOINES // CORALVILLE hy-vee.com
MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT
Complete Weddings + Events CLIVE, IA completewedo.com
DJ DAS Entertainment
DES MOINES, IA dj-das.com
snapXP Photobooth
WEST DES MOINES, IA snapxp.com
Vows & Vibes
DES MOINES, IA vowsandvibes.com
OFFICIANT
Vows & Vibes
DES MOINES, IA vowsandvibes.com
PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY
Complete Weddings + Events CLIVE, IA completewedo.com
Katie McDonald Photography
DES MOINES, IA katiemcdonaldphotography.com
Studio Anne Photography
DES MOINES, IA studioanne.co
Sweet Story Photography DES MOINES, IA sweetstoryphoto.com
STATIONERY & GIFTS
TandemHart Paperie
DES MOINES, IA tandemhartpaperie.com
TRAVEL & HONEYMOON
Mosaic Shores Travel Co.
DES MOINES, IA mosaicshores.com
VENUES
1868 Farmhouse BOONE, IA 1868farmhouse.com
Barnes' Place ADEL, IA barnes-place.com
Big Grove
IOWA CITY & CEDAR RAPIDS, IA biggrove.com/ICPrivateEvents biggrove.com/CRPrivateEvents
Cedar Ridge Distillery SWISHER, IA cedarridgedistillery.com
The Chateau at White Oak CAMBRIDGE, IA whiteoakchateau.com
Country Lane Lodge ADEL, IA countrylanelodgeiowa.com
The Era Wedding & Event Venue SCRANTON, IA theeraiowa.com
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden DES MOINES, IA dmbotanicalgarden.com
Iowa State Fairgrounds DES MOINES, IA iowastatefairgrounds.org
The Hotel at Kirkwood Center CEDAR RAPIDS, IA thehotelatkirkwood.com
Prairie Meadows Event Center ALTOONA, IA prairiemeadows.com
Scottish Rite Consistory DES MOINES, IA dmscottishrite.org
Sherwood Forest Event Center
WINDSOR HEIGHTS, IA sherwoodforesteventcenter.com
World Food Prize, Hall of Laureates DES MOINES, IA halloflaureates.org
Nothing Compares
TO A WEDDING AT THE FAIRGROUNDS
TO A WEDDING AT THE FAIRGROUNDS
TO A WEDDING AT THE FAIRGROUNDS
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 for your guests, an accessible location and a staff ready to assist you with every detail.
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 for your guests, an accessible location and a staff ready to assist you with every detail.
Celebrate your special day at the Iowa State Fairgrounds. Historic buildings, facilities and picturesque outdoor settings await you and your guests. free, close parking for your guests, an accessible location and a staff ready to assist you with every detail.
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 for your guests, 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.
To schedule your wedding at the Iowa State Fairgrounds, visit iowastatefairgrounds.org or contact Off Season Events at 515-262-3111, ext 282.
To schedule your wedding at the Iowa State Fairgrounds, visit iowastatefairgrounds.org or contact Off Season Events at 515-262-3111, ext 282.
To schedule your wedding at the Iowa State Fairgrounds, visit iowastatefairgrounds.org or contact Off Season Events at 515-262-3111, ext 282.
