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Shelby + Ryan — Dream Day

Shelby + Ryan’s Wedding Day Pros

Photography Grace V. Photography | Videographer The Vine Productions | Ceremony & Reception Venue Walker Homestead | Bridal Shower Kingston's Steakhouse | Cake Classic Cakes By Design | Caterer Walker Homestead | Floral Hydrangea Bloom | Wedding Dress Modern Dress, Colby John | Hair Hair Gallery | Makeup Aurora Blush Beauty | Stationery Designed by the bride and printed by Vista Print | Calligraphy & Signage Styled By Schuler (the couple's business) | Jewelry Siebke Hoyt Jewelers and Rare Carat online | Ceremony & Reception Music Unique Events, Brian Ehler | Extra Rentals Aero Rental | Transportation Night Train Party Bus | Hotel Hyatt Regency Coralville | Balloon Arch Bliss Balloons

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If Ryan were to describe the theme of the wedding, he would say: “Shelby.” The wedding of their dreams had everything and was made just for them. From playing flippy cup during cocktail hour to doggie cupcakes to a custom chalkboard guestbook, the Schuler wedding was one for the memory books.

Before their beautiful wedding was a surprise proposal. On New Year’s Day, Ryan told Shelby to expect a proposal sometime during the year. She knew it was coming, but did not expect it on September 3 — a weeknight that, at first, seemed like every other. After rushing Shelby to get ready after work, Ryan took her to Cedar Ridge Winery to pop the question. She said yes!

The two held a breathtaking outdoor ceremony. With a neutral palette and pops of emerald green and gold, the outdoor setting was the perfect space for them to say “I do.” The ceremony was so special for all in attendance, made extra memorable with a gorgeous floral arch and unity vase.

The ceremony also had celebratory confetti, which caused one of their most memorable, silly moments as newlyweds. While walking back up the aisle, Shelby slipped on the confetti and Ryan had to hold her veil in her hair. They smiled and laughed the rest of the way out of the ceremony.

Shelby wore an elegant v-neck gown from Modern Dress with a jeweled belt and dazzling shoes. Aurora Blush did her flawless makeup, amping up her natural beauty and glow for the big day!

The duo started the reception off with a bang by playing a drinking game with their bridal parties during cocktail hour. “We played flippy cup and had some of the best candid photos,” Shelby says. “It was a great way to unwind after the ceremony.”

Held at the Walker Homestead, the venue was decorated with stunning green and gold details. Shelby describes the vibe as rustic meets old romantic Hollywood. She brought her vision to life by DIYing the signage and decor throughout the space.

One of our favorite touches was the “Take a Treat” corner. Since Ryan and Shelby have two dogs, they wanted to find a way to include the pups and their friend's and family’s pets, too. The station had little goodie bags guests could fill with treats to take home to their dogs. How cute!

As the reception continued, the two had a few fun surprises for their guests to enjoy. One of the events was a rapid-fire photo booth, meaning the two ran around the reception to get a photo with all of their guests. Such a fun way to include everyone! It was also Ryan’s dad’s birthday, so guests sang “Happy Birthday” and he had his own personalized cake.

Instead of a dollar dance, Ryan and Shelby held a “bartending for bucks,” which turned out to be a highlight of the night! Guests tipped them as they poured their guests’ drinks. This twist on a tradition got everyone up from their tables and excited to see the two take on the challenge.

While their wedding was beyond memorable, Ryan and Shelby fell in love with the wedding industry during their planning process. The couple had so much fun with the DIY and calligraphy projects that they’ve decided to create their own wedding signage business, Styled By Schuler!

“I loved the creativity to make absolutely anything we wanted,” Shelby says. “Every little detail was personalized, and we can’t wait to show it off to the world!”

Ryan and Shelby celebrated the start of their lives together with a show stopping wedding. There were so many personal and special touches that highlight their character and love for one another. What a fun way to begin their journey together!