Hanna Allen & Chris McDonald: September, 27, 2014
Amana, Iowa
Chris and Hanna enjoyed a charming Iowa wedding at the Festhalle Barn in Amana, Iowa. AE Photography LLC was happy to not only take their engagement photos, but also their wedding pictures to share and inspire you for your special day.
Chris and Hanna met each other through a mutual friend and ended up going on a blind date. The date ended at Texas Road House where they stayed for hours…. well into closing time. Chris and Hanna didn’t even realize the restaurant had closed!
Chris knew Hanna was “the one” when she came to visit him in Tennessee while he was living there. Hanna made a drop of the hat decision to come see Chris just days after meeting… they had said goodbye at Texas Road House, not thinking they would see each other again. Having that time with Hanna really made Chris realize how quickly he was falling for her.
Chris travels for his work and their relationship had been, and still is, sometimes long distance. Early into their relationship, Hanna got sick and had to spend a lot of time in the hospital. Chris dropped everything and came home to be with her every night. After Hanna got out of the hospital, she knew Chris was “the one!” He had selflessly given his time and energy to take care of her when she needed him the most.
Chris set up a special trip for Hanna’s birthday. He took her down to Gatlinburg, TN, where he rented them a cabin in the smoky mountains. It was romantic and fun. Chris originally planned to propose to Hanna while horseback riding because he knew it was one of her favorite things to do, however, it rained almost every. So instead, on a rainy day in their cabin, they decided to have some wine and play a game of Uno. Chris told Hanna that if she won he had a birthday surprise for her. Hanna won and Chris pulled the ring out of his pocket and proposed on the floor right in front of the fire place! It was so exciting and emotional that Hanna couldn’t tell you what all Chris said, but it was super sweet and something she’ll remember forever.
Their wedding theme was a rustic shabby chic. Hanna used burlap and lace, but not too much. Their colors included turquoise, blush, off white, tan, and other neutral tones.
For Hanna, the most memorable part of their wedding was right after they got married and before they were introduced, about to walk back down the aisle. They really had a chance to look at all their guests and take it all in. That’s something they’ll remember forever. The most fun part of their wedding was the reception for sure. It was a non-stop party with their amazing wedding party, great friends and family, kegs of beer, and boxed wine!
Vendor Credits
Photography: AE Photography LLC (http://www.aephotographyllc.com)
Rehearsal Dinner Venue: Festhalle Barn, Amana, IA (http://www.amanacolonies.com/city/amana-colonies/listing/festhalle-barn/)
Ceremony Venue: Amana Colonies, land behind Festhalle Barn (http://www.amanacolonies.com/city/amana-colonies/listing/festhalle-barn/)
Officiant: Samuel Blowes- Family Friend
Reception Venue: Festhalle Barn, Amana, Iowa (http://www.amanacolonies.com/city/amana-colonies/listing/festhalle-barn/)
Bride’s Gown: Davids Bridal (http://www.davidsbridal.com/)
Jewelry/Accessories: Francesca’s (http://www.francescas.com)
Hair: JcPenny’s (http://www.jcpenney.com/)
Makeup: Bare Minerals (http://www.bareminerals.com)
Rings: Helzberg Diamonds (http://www.helzberg.com)
Florist: Coralville Hy-Vee (http://www.hy-vee.com)
Décor & Rentals: Aero Rental (http://www.aerorental.com/)
Borrow my Vintage (http://www.borrowmyvintage.com)
Other decorations were bought at thrift stores and discount shops.
Invitations: Invitations by Dawn (http://www.invitationsbydawn.com/)
Catering: TC Bonez Catering (http://tcbonezcateringbbq.yolasite.com/)
Cake: Marianne Davenport, Over the Rainbow Cakes (http://www.facebook.com/groups/79909847152/)
Entertainment: Rock and Thunder DJ’s (http://www.rockandthunder.com/)
