Set against the Sacred Stone Circle, this Harvest Preserve Wedding in Iowa City, Iowa felt deeply rooted in nature and presence. When they first reached out, they said, “We want a photographer who truly captures candid moments well. Not someone who prompts candids.” Say less. From then on, I knew we would be the perfect fit for the Iowa City wedding.

Harvest Preserve Wedding – The perfect backdrop for an outdoor wedding

The ceremony unfolded outdoors among tall standing stones, where guests were guided through the nature trails and gathered together beneath a clear blue sky, creating an atmosphere that felt both grounded and quietly sacred. It was an abnormally hot October day, but each guest embraced it with open hearts. The couple leaned into the landscape around them, exchanging vows in a setting that felt intimate, unique, and true to them.

They started the day slowly. Finishing their vows in the cabin that overlooked the water while slowly easing into getting ready. Light flooded the cabin as her dress and veil draped near the windows. Fun fact: she thrifted her DESIGNER dress and the veil for $33. It was the conversation of the morning. The entire celebration carried a sense of ease and intention — nothing rushed, nothing overly produced. It felt like a day centered on being present with the people who matter most. Portraits were simple and affectionate, full of closeness and calm, before greeting their friends and family for cocktail hour. They reminisced their way into the evening, sharing stories alike and dancing among the torches to a live folk band. Altogether, it felt natural, grounded, and full of warmth — a wedding shaped as much by the landscape as by the love shared within it.

We absolutely loved documenting this Harvest Preserve Wedding. It was laid back, easy going, and rooted in presence. Want to see more Iowa City Weddings? Check out this heartfelt private estate wedding!