A Beautiful Fall Wedding
Lauren & Derrick got married in a gorgeous barn ceremony at RockCut Events in Dickeyville. Lauren’s dress was so uniquely beautiful and the flowers were bright and vibrant. However that was only the first layer of what I was excited to capture on their big day.
A Blended Family
Since I first met these two I’ve heard about another special somebody who would be a big part of this day. When I asked about their love story, Derrick said he first knew he wanted to spend forever with Lauren when he saw her with his daughter.
During their engagement session I saw both of their eyes light up when they talked about little Ella. They assured me she would be a HUGE ham, and loved getting her photo taken.
I’ve talked before about how blended families have a special place in my heart. My daughter was 5 when I married my husband. Her then “Tony Wony” has been a part of her life since she was 2.
During the “getting ready” portion of the day I saw so many Mommy-Daughter moments between Lauren & Ella. Lauren hugged her, comforted her, gently put in her flower crown. Afterwards, during the first look with the bridesmaids Ella’s face was so sweet, like she was looking at a real life princess, her eyes filled with tears.
Why We All Cried During The Reception
Later, during the reception, Lauren’s Dad played guitar and sang a song he had written for Ella. The lyrics were all about how “Today, your Mom married her Dad”. It wouldn’t be generalizing to say pretty much everyone had tears in their eyes. I heard the DJ say it was one of the most emotional things he’s ever seen at a reception, and I would agree.
In conclusion, it is an honor to witness days like this! Congratulations Lauren & Derrick! Your wedding was completely stunning, and so full of love. I know you’ll do big things together.
Don’t miss the end of this post for the happy couple’s advice + favorite moments, behind the scenes photos, & info on their wedding vendors.
I love the first look with the bridesmaids, so happy this is now a thing. <3 I could not get over the flowers + flower crown by Hand Pick’d! So vibrant and beautiful for this Fall wedding. They are linked up below.You don’t have to see each other to share a quiet moment before the ceremony. These two exchanged letters and held hands without ever catching a glimpse of each other.This was my first time shooting at this venue and it did not disappoint. I love this barn set up.Love this moment!! Officially Mr & Mrs!Big bridal parties are close to my heart. My husband and I had 9 on each side plus a ring bearer and flower girl.Can we talk about how much kiddo cuteness this wedding entailed?!Headed to the Millwork District in-between the ceremony and reception for some fun shots.This is going down as one of my favorite cake cutting moments of all time.Apple cider donuts for the win! If you’re having a Fall wedding, just add those apple cider donuts please. 😉The first dance. The twinkle lights on the ceiling of the Dubuque Fairgrounds are pretty magical for those dancing photos.The song that Lauren’s Dad played for Ella. So many tears! <3
In Their Words
What was your favorite moment from the wedding day?
Lauren : “Everything about the day was amazing but my favorite part was seeing my husband’s face when I walked down the aisle. Also after the ceremony, celebrating with our wedding party and letting loose together.”
Derrick :”Seeing my beautiful wife walk down the aisle!”
Any advice for future wedding couples?
“Take the time to enjoy each other that day. The day really does go by extremely fast so you’ll want to make sure you step back and enjoy the experience together. Don’t stress about the small things.”
Funniest memory from your wedding day?
“The “lap dance” from my husband before the garter toss. He is NOT a dancer. LOL”
If you could do it all over, would you change anything?
“I would try not to please everyone else so much. Its ultimately you and your fiances day so make the choices that are best for you guys. Everyone will have their opinion but its your big day. Really enjoy every step of the wedding planning.”
Are you going/did you go on a honeymoon?
“We did a mini-moon to Nashville, then to the Florida Keys a few months later.”
Wedding Day Songs
wedding party introductions : Bring Em Out- T.I
first dance : Perfect – Ed Sheeran
father/daughter dance : Somewhere over the Rainbow – IZf
mother/son dance : A Mother’s Song – T Carter
Rocking the getting ready shots with Donovan from Twelve One Videography.On the left, one of my favorites & second shooter for the day, Amanda McLeod. Love this girl! Middle: I’m only 5’3″, therefore sometimes a stool is much needed. Right: Reception vibes, that’s all I can say.
Wedding Vendors
Ceremony | RockCut Events : Dickeyville, WI
Reception | Dubuque County Fairgrounds : Dubuque, IA
Dress Boutique | Brandi’s Bridal Galleria : near Madison, WI
Wedding Dress | Maggie Sottero
Tux Rental | Mens Wearhouse : Dubuque, IA
Caterer | The Barn : Sherrill, IA
Cake/Baker | Sprinkled Confections : Holy Cross, IA
Florist | Handpick’d : Dubuque, IA
DJ | Absolute Music : Dubuque, IA
Videographer | Twelve One Videography : Des Moines, IA