As the leaves fall and winter approaches, we’re wrapping up the year with a magazine full of beauty, love, and fresh inspiration. Whether you're newly engaged or deep into planning, we’re here to help you navigate every detail with ease (and a little sparkle).
In this issue, our featured styled shoot is pure opulence.
“Old Money Elegance” from Elizabeth Bliss Events brings together timeless glamour and cinematic romance in the most dramatic way — we dare you not to swoon over every lavish detail.
We also spotlight two weddings that show just how personal and joyful a celebration can be. Reba + James’ candlelit winter wedding was heartfelt, intentional, and full of meaningful moments, while Hailey + Nate brought European charm to Des Moines with artful touches and a dash of Parisian flair.
And if you’re just getting started, don’t miss our planning feature on picking your wedding date and venue — plus more wedding pros in our Vendor LUST section to help you find everyone from your florist, photographer, gown, and more.
As always, you’ll find the best local wedding professionals listed inside. We’re grateful you’re here, and we can’t wait to help you plan your own unforgettable day.
lesha & Lisa XOXO,
EMAIL: info@HeartlandWeddingIdeas.com
WEBSITE: HeartlandWeddingIdeas.com
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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.
Photo Credit: CINDY BAUER PHOTOGRAPHY & DESIGN
Photo Credit: CINDY BAUER PHOTOGRAPHY & DESIGN
CENTRAL & EASTERN IOWA
STYLED SHOOT
Old Money Opulence
We love the vision Mercedes at Elizabeth Bliss Events had to bring this look to life.
Dreams are made of all these ornate details.
Refined and romantic yet dripping with old-money elegance — this styled shoot was an absolutely cinematic take on a luxurious wedding day. Led by Mercedes at Elizabeth Bliss Events, a team of visionary central and eastern Iowa wedding pros created an opulent day with showstopping details. Every Vogue-worthy scene feels like a lavish love story that has been passed down for generations.
MEET THE WEDDING PROS
PLANNER & DESIGNER
Elizabeth Bliss Events
VENUE
The Tea Room
PHOTOGRAPHER
Breanna Maxwell Photography
CONTENT CREATOR
Katie Mcdonald Photography
FLORAL DESIGN
Heather's Secret Garden
SUIT
Langel And Woods
BEAUTY
Beauty By Bella Kim
STATIONERY + SIGNAGE + WELCOME AREA
Invited Dsm
GOWN
Modern Dress
RINGS
Siebke Hoyt Jewelers
CAKE
Parinda Cupcakes
SUIT
Skeffington's Formal Wear
HAIR STYLIST
Bespoke Beauty
MAKEUP ARTIST
Morgan Dodds Makeup Artistry
DECOR + SWEETHEART
TABLE
Monarch Events
DECOR
11:11 Event Co.
CANDELABRAS
Borrow My Vintage
FLAY LAY RENTALS
Annata Vintage Rental CO.
CHAIRS
Beyond Elegance
MODELS
Lea & Brock Rathbun
The gold & glass table settings are absolute luxury.
Who knew floors could be so beautiful? We love these original checkered tiles of The Tea Room.
The reveal of lace on this dress is a stunning.
Love this white tailored tux from Skeffington’s Formal Wear.
This cake might just steal the show! Parinda Cupcakes leveled up with this eight-tiered masterpiece.
The soft shine of silk and draping everywhere is a trend to watch.
Sometimes you have to have to jump on a bed! What a fun end to the night to take your final shots in your honeymoon suite.
Un forg etta ble HOST
HAILEY + NATE
REBA + JAMES
REBA + JAMES
EARTHY & ELEGANT
Reba and James celebrated their marriage with a candlelit, winter wedding that was equal parts intentional, elegant, and deeply personal.
The couple first met during orientation week at college, and by a stroke of luck, they paired up as chemistry lab partners. Each week they talked and talked and talked (one of their favorite things to do) and their friendship grew. Through some unexpected turns, their relationship turned romantic, and James quickly knew he was ready to ask for her hand in marriage.
Determined to surprise Reba with the proposal (not an easy task), he teamed up with her sisters to orchestrate a “girls’ weekend” in Tulsa paired with a fake photoshoot. Reba became suspicious — especially when someone suggested getting their nails done — but clever psychological tactics and straight-faced denials managed to throw her off.
When James picked her up for their “photos,” he could barely contain his excitement. At Woodward Park, surrounded by wintery beauty and with her sisters secretly waiting nearby, James proposed. “The joy I felt and the happiness I saw in Reba’s face was a moment that stood still in the best possible way,” he shares. “Her response was, ‘Shut up! No way James!’”
That same joy and sense of surprise carried into their wedding day. Reba envisioned a candlelit ceremony with classical music, so they began at 5 p.m., letting darkness and soft lighting create an unforgettable, dramatic atmosphere. Bridesmaids held candles instead of bouquets, casting a glow that made the aisle feel both sacred and cinematic.
This $60 sparkly reception dress is from Sevilla, Spain, where Reba studied abroad.
IT’S MY Big DAY EASTERN IOWA
The duo worked hard to make the ceremony personal to their love and families. They read letters from their early dating days before the ceremony, and Reba wore a cherished emerald ring from her grandparents and a cathedral veil (which is the same veil her sister wore, and her other sisters plan to wear for their own weddings).
They also had a clever idea to place a sticky note under someone’s seat before the ceremony. When it was time to sign their marriage certificate, everyone looked under their seat to see who the witness would be. “It was so fun to hear everyone’s joy as they looked for it and gasp when they saw who was selected,” Reba shares.
The Veteran’s Memorial Building in Cedar Rapids was a blank canvas for Reba’s vision for the reception. She wanted it to be a cheery, colorful winter ballroom filled with flowers and a touch of antique glam. And she nailed it — especially with her DIY floral. She ordered blooms in bulk from Hy-Vee and arranged all the centerpieces herself with the help of family and friends.
From a crowd-favorite Kernels dinner to a custom cake from Sam’s Club baker Abby (who perfectly embraced the Pinterest vision), everything was thoughtfully chosen. Reba credits her childhood best friend Stacy Each, who is a professional wedding planner, for all her work in coordinating the day and making everything run smoothly.
She also gives kudos to photographer Jenni and second shooter Mary with Jams Creative Photography for bringing all the calm and joy. They clearly understood the vibe and captured the most dreamy, moments of the special day.
“To us, the most important thing was that we celebrated our marriage in a way that was meaningful to both us and our guests. It was sweet to design an aesthetic that reflected the beauty and intricacy of the commitment we made to each other,” Reba shares.
A joyful celebration, rooted in love, creativity, and community — just like their story.
REBA + JAMES
WEDDING MOOD
WEDDING STYLE
WINTER, ELEGANT, PERSONAL
COLOR PALETTE
VENDOR LUST
ALL VENDORS
Photographer Jams Creative Photography
Ceremony Venue Faith Life Church | Reception
Venue Veteran’s Memorial Building | Caterer
Kernels Catering | Bartending Hy-Vee | Cake
Amy at Blair's Ferry Sam's Club | Floral Beth at Hy-Vee Floral | Bride’s Dress Ellis Bridal in Tulsa
Tuxedos Generation Tux | Bridesmaids Dresses
Birdy Grey | Hair Johanna Fentress | Makeup
Hadley Howell | Dress Tailor Barb Christoffersen
Tanning Salon Sun Tan City | Engagement Rings
Moody's Jewelry in Tulsa | Groom's Wedding
Everyone should wear a robe like this once in their life.
When two Iowa State University alums cross paths working at a bar in Ames, you don't always expect it to lead to a romantic proposal in Paris. But for Hailey and Nate, their love story is one of serendipity, shared passions, and an unforgettable wedding celebration.
After meeting the summer Hailey graduated from ISU, the two bonded during slow shifts and post-work hangouts … which eventually turned into a full relationship. When the time was right, Hailey and Nate custom-designed her engagement ring at Owen Jewelry Design in Des Moines, incorporating a diamond from Nate’s grandmother and blue sapphires to represent her birthstone. A few months later, they planned a very special trip to Paris and Nate popped the question.
When dreaming up their wedding day, Hailey envisioned a look inspired by their time in France and Nate’s travels in Ireland – Old World European charm with a whimsical, romantic twist. Salisbury House and Gardens in Des Moines was the first thing they nailed down for wedding planning and it proved to be the perfect venue. “We liked the uniqueness and historical elements of the house,” Hailey shares. “And that we didn’t have to do much decorating – after all there is already priceless art on the walls.”
For the reception, the couple chose the Django Reinhardt Room across from the Pappajohn Sculpture Park. The plated dinner was incredible, made even better with the professionalism of the waitstaff, geniality of the bartenders, and the care the house chefs put into each dish. “It felt more like a Jay Gatsby party than a wedding,” Hailey says.
Personal touches were everywhere in this wedding day: hand-painted clam shell place cards that doubled as keepsakes, mismatched bridesmaid dresses in coordinating hues from the wedding palette, and heartfelt speeches. There was also an incredible dance floor moment
KMP Photo always knocks it out of the park.
CENTRAL IOWA
between Hailey and her mom during ABBA’s “Dancing Queen,” and a special moment when Nate’s two grandfathers (who he looks up to the most) walked him down the aisle. And every special element was beautifully captured by Kendra Plathe of KMP Photo alongside her partner Nate (yes, another Nate!). Not only did they bring warmth and ease to the process, but they even stepped in to drive the newlyweds between venues when a transportation detail slipped through the cracks!
The couple’s advice for wedding planning? Talk to your partner about everything.
“You might not always agree on things, but it’s a special day for both of you, and you should each feel like part of it,” Hailey says. “Nate ended up picking the song I walked down the aisle to all because I asked if he had any suggestions for it. Even small details like that can make the day super meaningful for both partners.”
Cheers to the lovebirds as they begin their beautiful life together!
Hailey hand-painted these clam shells as place cards!
Salon DSM leaves you feeling (and looking) sharp.
HAILEY + NATE
WEDDING MOOD
WEDDING STYLE
EUROPEAN INSPIRED, ROMANTIC
COLOR PALETTE
VENDOR LUST
PREMIER VENDORS
Reception Music Complete Weddings + Events, DJ Giovanni Bahena
Veil Pure Bridal | Officiant Groom's uncle, Scott Pitsch
The sunset over the sculpture park was a delight to watch from the Django Rinehart Room.
The Salisbury House needs no extra décor — absolutely stunning.
VENDOR lust
CHOOSING YOUR DATE & VENUE
When it comes to wedding planning, choosing your date and venue are two of the most important decisions you’ll make. They go hand-in-hand and will impact nearly every other choice down the road. It might feel overwhelming at first, but with a little flexibility and the right mindset, you’ll find a perfect match that feels like you.
Let’s walk through how to approach this "power couple" of planning — your date and your dream space.
PICKING YOUR DATE
Everyone wants a memorable or meaningful anniversary, whether it's personal to your relationship or an interesting number combination like 02/05/2025, but try not to get too stuck on an exact date. Instead, zoom out. Think about a month, a season, or even just a general time of year that fits your schedule, your guests, and your vibe.
Think, about the possibilities — spring time florals, summer sunsets, rich fall colors, or faux fur winter stoles — let the season inspire the style of your celebration. Flexibility can open up the possibilities for a favorite venue choice. Friday and Sunday weddings are becoming more popular, and weekday weddings are on the rise, too!
OUR PREMIER VENUES:
Meet our Heartland Premier Wedding Pros
Also, think about what matters most to you. Do you want an outdoor ceremony with guaranteed sunshine? Avoid the rainy season. Want a winter wedding without a holiday rush? Early February might be your sweet spot.
PICKING YOUR VENUE
Now onto the “where.” Think of your venue as the canvas for your entire day. It should not only fit your guest count, but also your vision, budget, and logistics. Whether you’re dreaming of a modern art gallery, a garden estate, a charming barn, or a chic rooftop downtown — your venue sets the stage for your love story.
Some venues are blank slates, giving you the freedom to bring in your own wedding pros and go wild with decor. Others offer all-inclusive packages, which can be a major time-saver (and sometimes, a budget helper!). Know what level of control you want — and how much help you need. While a venue may offer a coordinator, they may not act as your wedding planner, so be sure to ask. And don't forget the amenities! Does the venue have a bridal suite or groom’s lounge? Is there a backup plan for bad weather? Can
1868 Farmhouse // Barnes' Place // BeerStyles Taproom & GastroPub // Cedar Ridge Distillery // The Chateau at White Oak // Country Lane Lodge // Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden // Iowa State Fairgrounds // The Hotel at Kirkwood Center // Pella Opera House // Prairie Meadows Event Center // Scottish Rite Consistory // Sherwood Forest Event Center // Windsor Heights Community Center and Pavilion // WineStyles // World Food Prize, Hall of Laureates
it accommodate parking or shuttles for guests?
Always ask for a full tour and don’t be afraid to get nosy with questions. What’s included? What’s not? Are there noise restrictions, curfews, or preferred vendor lists?
At the end of the day, your wedding date and venue should reflect who you are as a couple. So breathe deep, stay open, and let the planning magic begin. Cheers to the moment where your forever starts!
World Food Prize, Hall of Laureates
Cedar Ridge Distillery
The Chateau at White Oak
VENDOR lust
ATTIRE & TAILORING
Bridal Connection
ANKENY, IA bridalconnectiondsm.com
Celebrations Couture
WEST DES MOINES, IA celebrationscouturedsm.com
D'Luxe Tux
CEDAR RAPIDS, IA dluxe-tux.com
Merci's Tailoring
CEDAR RAPIDS, IA mercistailoring.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
Indian Creek Dental MARION, IA smileinmarion.com
vIVid Life Spa NORWALK, IA vividlifespa.com
CATERING
Baratta's DES MOINES, IA barattas.com
Cedar Ridge Distillery SWISHER, IA cedarridgedistillery.com
CAKE & DESSERT
ChaCha’s Hiland Bakery DES MOINES, IOWA chachashilandbakery.com
CAKE & DESSERT (CONTINUED)
Glorious Desserts DES MOINES, IOWA gloriousdesserts.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
Your Private Bar WEST DES MOINES, IA yourprivatebar.com
EVENT PLANNING
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
Fort Dodge Regional Bridal Show CENTRAL IOWA fdbridalshow.com
Era Events & Design
DES MOINES, IA eraeventdesign.com
MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT
Clife DJ Company IOWA clifedjcompany.com
VENDOR
OFFICIANT
Vows & Vibes
DES MOINES, IA vowsandvibes.com
PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY
Complete Weddings + Events CLIVE, IA completewedo.com
Filmmaking Masters CENTRAL IOWA filmmakingmasters.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
Humble Hands
DES MOINES, IA humblehandsjg.com
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
BeerStyles Taproom & GastroPub WEST DES MOINES, IA beerstyles.com
VENUES (CONTINUED)
Cedar Ridge Distillery SWISHER, IA cedarridgedistillery.com
The Chateau at White Oak CAMBRIDGE, IA whiteoakchateau.com
Country Lane Lodge ADEL, IA countrylanelodgeiowa.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
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
WINDSOR HEIGHTS, IA sherwoodforesteventcenter.com
Windsor Heights Community Center and Pavilion
WINDSOR HEIGHTS, IA windsorheights.org
WineStyles
WEST DES MOINES / JOHNSTON / ANKENY / CORALVILLE / CEDAR RAPIDS winestyles.com
World Food Prize, Hall of Laureates DES MOINES, IA halloflaureates.org
