Jessica + Matt

Real weddings

Jessica and Matt had known each other for years, but it wasn’t until Jessica moved back to Des Moines in 2016 that they finally had a chance to say more than a quick “hello” to one another. It wasn’t long after getting reacquainted that they were dating, and 6 months later … engaged! 

It was the holiday season when Matt popped the question. He suggested to Jessica that they start some of their own traditions and wanted to make dinner together as a way to kick off the season. As they finished eating, Matt picked an early gift from their Christmas tree for Jessica to open. It was an ornament frame with a photo of them and THE RING! He quickly got down on one knee and proposed. It wasn’t long after Jessica said yes that her family all came in to surprise her. It was an amazing night for everyone. 

Jessica and Matt's wedding day vendors:

Photographer // Sherry Peterson Photography  |  Event Decor and Floral // Melissa Hofmann  |  Venue // The Red Acre Barn  |  Videographer // The Vine Productions  |  Caterer // Mary Ann Smith Park & Eat Catering, 515.223.0018  |  Cake/Dessert // Little Blackbird Bakery  |  Hair // Salon Spa W, Blakelee  |  Wedding Dresses // Brides & Weddings  |  Ceremony Music // Kim Hensley  |  Men's Suites // The Back Room  |  Reception Music // The Dueling Pianos of Mike Leeds and Andy Anderson

Jessica and Matt wanted their wedding day vendors to feel like an extension of their family, people they knew they could trust to see their vision through. Sherry Peterson, their photographer and owner of Red Acre Barn, understood from the beginning. She helped them through many details. Jessica’s good friend, Melissa Hoffman, also put her heart into the florals and handmade touches. The bouquet she made brought tears to Jessica’s eyes it was so beautiful and full of love. All of their wedding day vendors had creative freedom to bring their own special touches to the day.

Finally, their day was here, and it was one of the summer’s hottest! Their nieces and nephews helped by handing out programs and umbrellas for shade against the hot July sun. The walk down the aisle was lined with beautiful oriental rugs, which now adorns their home’s entryway. A constant reminder of their day. 

The party to follow was full of blessings, laughter and happy tears. Everyone enjoyed an Iowa inspired menu from the caterer, Mary Smith. She prepared it family style giving guests a chance to converse with people at their table. And to end the night, The Dueling Pianos of Mike Leeds and Andy Anderson. The night was Jessica and Matt’s perfect day, with so much love and gratitude in their hearts for everyone who attended. It made for such a special day.

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