Wedding at Temple of Performing Arts in Des Moines, Iowa

June 2, 2024

Downtown Des Moines Wedding

I had been eagerly anticipating Caroline and Duff’s Des Moines wedding at the Temple of Performing Arts. Caroline and I spent months discussing every detail and the overall vibe of the wedding day. With everything planned to perfection and flawlessly executed by Alex of Wildflower DSM, the day began with a relaxed morning filled with dance breaks to Taylor Swift songs. As the morning progressed, dark clouds began to loom in the distance.

We managed to find some green space in downtown Des Moines and completed all the scheduled portraits just before the raindrops began to fall. Fortunately, all the family and wedding party members stayed dry, capturing beautiful moments in the heart of Des Moines.

Embracing the Rain in Des Moines

The rain added an unexpected but beautiful element to this Des Moines wedding. Guests hurried into the church under a flurry of umbrellas. One of my favorite photos from the entire day is of Grace, Caroline’s maid of honor, looking back outside as she helps Caroline into the church.

Wedding Ceremony at St. Ambrose Cathedral in Des Moines

Caroline and Duff’s Des Moines wedding featured a traditional Catholic ceremony at St. Ambrose Cathedral. The anticipation was palpable as everyone, freshly coming in from the rain, gathered in the small area before entering the doors at the end of the aisle. Caroline’s dad and uncle walked her down the aisle. Witnessing the special moment between the three of them before the doors opened was truly touching.

Stylish Pink Mismatched Bridesmaid Dresses

Caroline paid attention to every detail of her Des Moines wedding, including the choice of mismatched pink bridesmaid dresses. This trend is here to stay. It allows bridesmaids to pick something they love and feel comfortable in, while adding depth and interest to the overall fashion of the day.

Garden Party Reception at Temple of Performing Arts

Wildflower DSM brought Caroline’s garden party vision to life at the Temple of Performing Arts, a stunning venue in Des Moines. The historical architecture added to the charm Caroline envisioned. Everything about the reception was classic and refined, perfectly fitting the theme.

At the end of the night, Caroline switched to a sparkling pink gown, perfect for the party. The Blue Water Kings Band played hits like “Lover” and “Cruel Summer” by Taylor Swift and “Sweet Caroline,” a huge hit with the bride. This Des Moines wedding was truly unforgettable.

Planner/Florist: Wildflower DSM | Photography: Bethany McNeill | Reception Venue: Temple of Performing Arts | Food/drink: Great Caterers of Iowa + Top it Off | Paper: Ink & Oak | Cake: Creme | Makeup: Ivy Boyd | Hair: Hair by Brianne | Dress: The White RoomVera Wang | Band: Blue Water Kings Band | Trolley: Charters on Vine

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