Today’s blogpost is looking back at this laidback Cedar Rapids wedding at Ashton Hill Farm. Annie and Zach still hold the record as my most laidback couple ever. All they cared about was getting their friends and family together in one place to celebrate and have fun. On this day, I was about a million months pregnant, working with my husband as my pack horse…and we were treated as one of their guests the whole day. Such gracious hosts, and on cloud nine as they got to say “I Do” to their best friend.
When I met Annie and Zach, they admitted that they almost didn’t even hire a photographer. I was determined from that point to get them images that they would treasure forever. Wedding photography is a big investment, but it’s also the only thing (other than your marriage, of course!) that you get to keep and look back on. I loved that their day wasn’t about all the pinterest-worthy details, a long list of must have poses, or sticking to a strict timeline. It was just about each other. And being surrounded by a ton of loved ones and having a blast. And even without focusing on all those tedious things, their wedding was still straight out of a magazine! Scroll through to see more about this laidback Cedar Rapids wedding as I recount the day.
Vendors:
Venue: Ashton Hill Farm
Dress: Mermaid Bridal
Rings: Kay Jewelers
Floral: HyVee Floral
Dessert: Take the Cake
Catering: Big Boy Meats
As you can see, Olive and Pickles were a big part of the wedding day. Incorporated in the stationery and decor, as well as being little ringbearers during the ceremony! 
These two images may be my favorites from the day. These guys were so chill that they didn’t even want a first look…they just wanted to go about their day. Luckily, I kept an eye out for that first time Zach saw his bride and it was such a great reminder of what a first look was originally intended to be. Nothing grandiose. Just the real reaction of a couple seeing each other for the first time when they are about to promise their lives to each other. It makes me teary every time I see these! 
Yes, that’s a surprise percussion section in the audience for the recessional. It was so delightfully perfect and sweet. It pays to be friends with a bunch of musicians!
The couple opted for live music throughout the day, with family members performing during the ceremony, the pop up percussion section, and multiple bands playing throughout the night. These two love food, craft beer and music, and that’s exactly what their wedding day had!
If you’d like to contact me for information about photographing your wedding, please contact me here.