The Love Story
This beautiful wedding at The Loft DSM came to be when two young teenagers attended a high school wrestling tournament. Alexandria went to watch her older sister coach the cheerleaders and Dakota happened to one of the wrestlers competing. Ali and Dakota didn’t know that this fleeting encounter would set the stage for their future together. Years passed, and the two went on their separate paths until the universe conspired to bring them back together. Dakota’s core college professor coincidentally happened to be Ali’s aunt, and their families eventually settled in the same town. Finally, destiny intervened when Dakota accepted a teaching position in the town where Ali was completing her undergraduate degree. Two right swipes and one “Hey” later, they were reunited once more–this time forever. Their love story proves that sometimes, even the tiniest sparks can ignite a love that lasts a lifetime.
Alexandria + Dakota’s Wedding at The Loft DSM
The Attire
Ali made the most elegant chic bride. The pearl headband and long veil complimented her sweetheart neckline and corset dress with jeweled puff sleeves perfectly. Her calla lily bridal bouquet tied the look together; STUNNING to say the least. The matching satin bridesmaids’ dresses matched the vibes so well. Her groom looked sharp in his olive green suit. Of course, the ringbearer, their son Drake, had to get a green suit of his own. Our photographers Drew and Jenni couldn’t miss capturing the special getting ready moment between the two.
The Ceremony
The ceremony was a beautiful celebration of love as Ali and Dakota declared their life-long commitment to each other in front of family and friends. They had a love letter ceremony where the two wrote heartfelt letters to each other and locked them away in a box to be read years later– perhaps with a bottle of wine.
The Venue: The Loft DSM
The Loft DSM’s wood floor, high ceilings, and brick walls made the perfect spot for Ali & Dakota’s intimate wedding. This lavish retail space was perfect for the couple to be there all day as they arrived in the morning to get ready and stayed through the final dance. The urban, loft aesthetic combined perfectly with the green and gold wedding theme. The glass bulb lighting, candles, and hanging greenery added to the romantic ambiance. The couple opted for a king-style head table to ensure the whole wedding party could enjoy one another.
The Reception
Ali and Dakota made their grand entrance, introduced as husband and wife for the first time. After a lovely first dance, guests made their way to the buffet line filled with delicious food from Joni Bell and the Great Caterers of Iowa. Heartfelt toasts and a bite of red velvet cake later, everyone was ready to hit the dance floor with Complete DJ Darcy! Amidst the dancing, DJ Darcy hosted some fun games including a table scavenger hunt and the “Dollar Dash” where the wedding party ran from table to table collecting money for the couple.
Featured Vendors
Venue: The Loft DSM
Photography: Drew + Jenni, Complete Weddings + Events
DJ: Darcy, Complete Weddings + Events
Caterer: Joni Bell, Great Caterers of Iowa
Complete Weddings + Events Des Moines
We were honored to be part of such a joy-filled day. We are grateful Ali + Dakota trusted us with their wedding at The Loft DSM. It was an unforgettable celebration of love. If you would like to make your wedding complete like Ali + Dakota with our photography, videography, DJs, photo booths, and coordination, contact us. To see more amazing weddings or find more wedding inspiration, don’t forget to check our blog page.