Meganne & Drew’s Wedding at Danforth Chapel and the Hilton Garden Inn in Iowa City, Iowa

How it all began

Meganne & Drew met when they were coworkers at a Casey’s Gas Station while putting themselves through college. They shared a year-long friendship before taking things to the next level: a Valentine’s day date! As very independent people, they were surprised by how naturally (and deeply) their relationship grew over the years. They finished their college degrees, moved to new cities, and traveled the world together.

There was a time when Meganne was nervous for her financial future if she gave up her income to return to get her MBA, and Drew didn’t hesitate to support Meganne’s investment in her education. It was then that she realized that he was the man she was meant to spend the rest of her life with. Drew knew Meganne was the one when she received a job opportunity in another part of the country. Without hesitation, he was ready to uproot his life and move with her, knowing that no matter where he went, as long as they were together, he would be happy. How incredibly sweet, right?

Wedding Planning – Check!

From the very start of working together, Meganne told us that she wanted a wedding day that was focused on her friends and family with a seamless event flow. She also wanted exceptional reception decorations and amazing photography. We are so excited to share for our work on their celebration, because we nailed it! It was everything they could have wanted and more.

We were hired for full planning & design for the wedding ceremony & reception (The Experience) and it was a fun challenge to use vibrant colors of Cobalt Blue and Yellow, both having significant meaning to the couple and their families. By upgrading the chairs at the reception to gold chiavaris and ordering specialty linens, it was exactly what she was hoping for. Little touches like the unique centerpieces and gold chargers completed the whole look. Uplighting and string bistro lights were ordered to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere in the gorgeous ballroom at the Hilton Garden Inn.

10/10/2020 – The Best Day!

October 10th was a warm fall Saturday in beautiful downtown Iowa City. Literally, it couldn’t have been better weather! Since the hotel generously allowed rentals to be set up early, it meant that our team could bring in the stationery and personal decor in the morning. That time was not without little hiccups, but the Soirée team (Emily, Caitlyn, & Zahra) were able to make quick adjustments and run a few errands. Our ability to do this, ensured the smooth & fun day that Meganne was so hopeful to have. At the end of the night, Meganne could not stop gushing about how thankful she was that we were there to execute everything perfectly.

Gratitude was a huge theme in the their wedding weekend in everything from the ceremony to the toasts. Well, we are grateful that we’ve been able to get to know you both and create the BEST day for you. Congratulations, Meganne & Drew! We wish you all the happinesses and joy in your future together.

Special thanks to the vendors below:

Planning & Design: Soirée Wedding Planning
Photography: Frees Frame Photography & Design
Venue: Danforth Chapel
Venue & Catering: Hilton Garden Inn
Decor, Lighting, & Rentals: Unique Events
Flowers: Nicole Reisen, Waterfront HyVee
Cake: Tip Top Cakes
DJ: Patrick Shelton, Friend of the couple
Bridal Gown: Belle Vogue Bridal, Martina Liana
Bridesmaid Dresses: Alinanova
Officiant: Dr. Danny Lewis, Friend of the couple
Groom’s Custom Tuxedo Jacket: Mitch, Fine Line Custom Attire
Beauty: Mandy, Carleen, and Martha from Eden Salon; Aubrey from Flip Salon
Stationery: Allegra Iowa City
Photo Booth: Snap XP