Jake met John while in graduate school at Iowa State, and I believe they bonded over their mutual love of robotics. I think the first time I ever met John was in the Robotics Club lab on campus! We all became friends shortly after, so when they asked us if we would photograph their wedding we were so pleased!

Their ceremony was Quaker-inspired, with a ring warming and contribution part of the ceremony. The rings were passed in silence to each person, and everyone said a silent blessing for John and Brenna. Also, during this time friends and family were invited to tell a story, offer their advice, or wish their congratulations to them. It was truly one of the most thoughtful ceremonies I have ever seen.

When I spoke with Brenna during the months before her wedding, she repeatedly said that the most important thing to both her and John was that their friends and family would all be together, and what could be more important than that?! I agreed.

The kids lined up for the popcorn maker and games in the yard and everyone enjoyed a good old-fashioned BBQ for dinner with pies for dessert. I had a piece of the BEST pecan pie I have ever tasted (made with real Georgia pecans)! There was also a piñata, three-legged race, and dancing on the lawn late into the night!

Here are a some of my favorites, enjoy!

Brenna was so great all day — she was very present and taking it all in. One moment she would be cracking up and the next she would be brought to tears. She was so sweet!

Beautiful beyond words…this is one of my favorites of just the vineyard.  It looks like a watercolor to me.

Jake took this shot of the rings, and I just love how he used the old curly vines. John’s ring had Brenna’s fingerprint inside and Brenna’s had John’s fingerprint inside.  I thought it was lovely.

Brenna looked gorgeous getting ready with her girlfriends — just look at those eyes!  Her headband was made from her mothers veil.

John was looking very handsome as well!

Brenna’s girlfriends were so much fun! I loved their dresses.

This shot of Brenna and her Dad makes me smile :)

Nathan and Kate introduced John and Brenna and were the officiants of the ceremony!  They are great people.

Brenna’s mother and step-father, Dave and Cyndi – who get to live on the vineyard all year long!  What a backyard!

After all the craziness of planning a wedding, I think these are the moments you wait for — because at that point nothing else matters except the two of you.

Congratulations John and Brenna!