The Chateau Burgundy and Navy Wedding

September 12, 2018

After meeting Ben and Carina last fall for their engagement session at Iowa State University, I knew waiting for their wedding day to come would be hard. I wanted to photograph them again immediately. They were kind and friendly. And SO fun to photograph! We laughed their entire session. Every time I talk with these two, I leave with a smile on my face. They’re wonderful people, so it comes as no surprise that their Chateau at White Oak wedding was simply stunning!

It takes serious skill to plan your own wedding when you live nearby. Carina planned their Iowa wedding all the way from St. Louis. That is astounding! Carina, you amaze me. Every detail came together flawlessly! The timeless combination of burgundy and navy was featured throughout their day. If you ask me, that’s the perfect combo for fall!

Their reception at the Chateau was filled with rustic and timeless decor. Stomachs and hearts were full as their guests filled up on delicious Hickory Park. I made sure to snag a piece of their delicious lemon bunt cake from Nothing Bunt Cakes. Yum! Totally worth the extra calories. Not only was the overall decor amazing, but even the finest details of their day were perfect. The blue stone in Carina’s necklace is an heirloom from her grandma. She had it made into a necklace as her “something blue.”

All the pretty details aside, their ceremony at Riverside Bible Camp was one of the most beautiful I’ve ever seen. When two caring people come together, your heart can’t help but smile. Ben and Carina’s ceremony focused on their character. They were asked to describe one another. Ben’s definition of Carina: caretaker and goofball. And her definition of him? Her protector and also goofball. Chivalry is not dead in their relationship. Ben is always looking for ways to provide for and serve Carina. She fills his need for quality time by spending time at home together. They understand each other’s love languages and use their strength to overcome their weaknesses. That, my friends, is a beautiful start to a marriage.

Ben and Carina, the genuine love and kindness you have for others is a rare quality. When my tire went flat, you were far more concerned about my well-being than whether or not it caused me to be a few minutes late. You guys had me smiling all day. Seriously, watching the two of you become husband and wife was such a special day. Thank you for choosing me to capture it for you! I’m so grateful to know you both! Enjoy marriage—it’s the best!