A Summer Vineyard Wedding Story: Carina & Colton at The Vineyard at St. Charles

Some wedding days just feel like sunshine. Not just because the light is golden or the sky is clear, but because there’s a calm, joyful energy in the air — the kind that tells you two people are exactly where they’re meant to be. That was the feeling we had the moment Carina and Colton’s summer wedding began here at The Vineyard at St. Charles, our Iowa wedding venue just outside of Des Moines.

Their August celebration was everything a vineyard wedding should be — romantic, relaxed, timeless, and filled with laughter. From early morning preparations in our bridal suites to the final dance beneath the string lights, every detail reflected who they are as a couple: easygoing, genuine, and surrounded by people who adore them.

Morning Calm in the Bridal Suites

The day began quietly, with soft music drifting through the bridal suites as Carina and her bridesmaids arrived at 9:00 a.m. Hair and makeup artists Marissa Williams and Jennifer Pule MUA set up their stations, and within minutes the space was alive with the gentle hum of curling irons, laughter, and the occasional happy tear.

There’s something about those morning hours in the bridal suite that we love — they’re filled with anticipation, but they move slowly, almost tenderly. Brides often tell us it’s the first time they can take a deep breath and realize: this is happening.

Carina was no exception. She was radiant, calm, and focused on soaking in the experience. Her gown hung by the window where morning light poured in, catching on the lace detailing with every shift of the breeze. She took a few quiet moments alone before her bridesmaids zipped her in, and the room filled with applause and smiles.

Meanwhile, the groomsmen and Colton arrived around 11:30 a.m. in great spirits. Their space had its own energy — music, camaraderie, and the kind of banter that only best friends can pull off. By noon, their photographer, Katie Lindgren, and videographer, Jordan Miller of Photo by Jord, had arrived to capture those lighthearted, candid moments before the day picked up speed.

A First Look in the Vineyard

By 2:30 p.m., the late-summer sun was bright, warm, and shimmering over the willow tree. It was the perfect setting for a first look. Colton stood waiting at the far end, shoulders tense with anticipation. When he turned around, the world seemed to stop for just a second — a moment shared quietly between two people about to begin forever.

We always say there’s something special about doing a first look at a vineyard. The natural greenery, open sky, and long stretches of light lend themselves beautifully to photographs, but it’s more than that — it’s peaceful. Private. You can hear the wind move through the vines, the faint sound of cicadas, and maybe even a deep breath of relief.

Katie captured those emotions perfectly. Afterward, the couple joined their bridal party for photos, laughter spilling across the vineyard as everyone celebrated the countdown to the ceremony.

The Outdoor Ceremony

At 4:30 p.m., guests began to gather for the outdoor ceremony. The vines glowed under the afternoon sun, and the gentle sound of leaves rustling in the breeze set the perfect tone. Rows of white chairs faced the vineyard, and at the front stood an elegant arch Carina’s florist — her aunt, Becky Payne — had designed herself.

There’s something unforgettable about outdoor ceremonies at our Iowa wedding venue. You can feel the stillness settle as everyone takes their seats, waiting for that first note of music. When Carina appeared, there was a collective exhale.

The ceremony was short — just 15 minutes — but it was filled with meaning. Their officiant led with warmth and humor, and by the time they said “I do,” everyone was smiling through tears. Guests cheered as the couple walked back up the aisle, newly married, sunlight glinting off the rings on their hands.

Cocktail Hour in the Summer Light

As the bar opened., the celebration began to unfold. We always recommend opening the bar 30 minutes before or right after the ceremony — it gives guests time to mingle, take photos, and enjoy the property.

Carina and Colton chose to include yard games on the lawn, which gave the cocktail hour a relaxed, backyard-chic feel. Guests sipped drinks, played cornhole, and explored the vineyard, snapping selfies as the golden light settled over the fields.

One of the best things about a summer wedding in Iowa is how the light lingers — golden hour lasts longer, and the vineyard takes on a glow that feels cinematic. It’s one of the reasons couples choose this wedding venue near Des Moines again and again.

Dinner, Toasts, and a Joyful Entrance

By 6:00 p.m., everyone made their way inside the reception space, ready for the grand entrance. The bridal party danced their way in, followed by Carina and Colton, whose smiles said it all — this was going to be a good night.

At 6:10 p.m., toasts began. Parents, siblings, and lifelong friends took the microphone, each story funnier or sweeter than the last. There was laughter, a few happy tears, and plenty of applause.

Dinner followed at 6:30 p.m., a delicious buffet provided by Off the Griddle catering. Tables were draped in crisp white linens, adorned with the venue’s “Classic Elegance” centerpieces — soft florals and candles that reflected beautifully against the neutral palette. The couple had arranged for a dedicated card and guestbook table near the entry, along with an easel for their seating chart. Everything looked seamless, thoughtful, and intentional.

Sweet Moments and Golden Light

At 7:20 p.m., it was time for the cake cutting — a beautifully tiered creation from Dave’s Cakes that had arrived the day before. The couple shared a quick laugh (and a bit of frosting) before moving into their first dance at 7:30 p.m.

As music filled the room, guests circled the dance floor, watching as Carina and Colton moved effortlessly, smiling into each other’s eyes. It was simple, elegant, and heartfelt — just like them.

Not long after, Katie and Jordan whisked the newlyweds away for golden-hour photos around the property. The light was soft and honey-colored, wrapping everything in that unmistakable summer glow. They danced between the vines, laughed under the open sky, and took a few quiet moments to soak it all in before returning to their guests.

A Night to Remember

The rest of the evening flowed with music and laughter. The dance floor stayed packed, the bar stayed busy (thanks to the couple’s custom bar menu spreadsheet), and guests enjoyed every minute.

The couple chose to skip a big grand exit in favor of something more intimate — a private last dance together inside the reception hall while everyone else gathered their belongings. It was one of those small, powerful moments that will stay with them forever.

By 11:00 p.m., the celebration had officially come to a close. Guests departed with smiles, hugs, and plenty of stories to tell. The venue team began their quiet cleanup while the newlyweds lingered just a little longer — one last look at the vineyard under the stars.

Thoughtful Details That Made the Day Seamless

Part of what made Carina and Colton’s day run so smoothly was their attention to detail. Their Vineyard Master Planner document covered everything from vendor arrival times to décor preferences and ceremony flow. They’d also designated a day-of contact — Becky Payne, Carina’s aunt — who served as the go-to person for vendors, ensuring the couple could stay focused on enjoying the day.

They also took advantage of The Vineyard’s flexibility, renting the space the day before for rehearsal and setup. That extra time made decorating relaxed and enjoyable, with no rush or stress. Their decor team included a handful of close friends and family who transformed the venue with personal touches, greenery, and candles — all while keeping the overall look sophisticated and timeless.

One of our favorite touches? The couple rented a bubble machine and an Instax Polaroid camera from our rental collection, adding a playful twist to cocktail hour and giving guests a way to take home instant memories.

Why We Love Summer Weddings at The Vineyard

Every season at our Iowa venue has its charm, but summer holds something truly special. The vines are full, the evenings are long, and every photo seems to glow. The outdoor ceremony spaces come alive under the sky, and there’s a relaxed energy to the day that makes everyone feel at home.

For couples planning their own vineyard wedding, we often suggest late-afternoon ceremonies like Carina and Colton’s. The light is soft, temperatures are comfortable, and guests can transition effortlessly into cocktail hour without feeling rushed.

Our property’s layout also helps keep the day easy to navigate — from the bridal suites in the morning to the outdoor ceremony site, to the reception hall and patio for evening entertainment. Everything flows naturally, and your guests always feel part of the celebration.

The Vendors Who Made It Happen

It takes a dedicated team to bring a day like this to life, and Carina & Colton’s vendor list was as thoughtful as their timeline.

Officiant: Morgan Argotsinger

Photographer: Katie Lindgren

Videographer: Jordan Miller (PhotobyJord)

Florist: Becky Payne

Hair: Marissa Williams

Makeup: Jennifer Pule MUA

Caterer: Off the Griddle

Cake: Dave’s Cakes

DJ: A Special Event DJ

Each vendor brought their own creativity and professionalism, ensuring that every moment — from the ceremony to the sparkler-free private sendoff — went off without a hitch.

An Invitation to Future Couples

If you’re dreaming of your own vineyard wedding in Iowa, we’d love to welcome you here. Whether you picture an intimate outdoor ceremony surrounded by vines or a lively summer reception under twinkling lights, The Vineyard at St. Charles offers the perfect blend of elegance and comfort.

Our bridal suites provide peaceful spaces to prepare for your day, our ceremony sites offer breathtaking vineyard views, and our team is here to help you every step of the way — from planning timelines to connecting you with trusted local vendors.

Just a short drive from Des Moines, The Vineyard combines countryside serenity with city convenience, making it easy for your guests to travel while giving you the destination-style experience you’ve always imagined.

Whether your dream is a summer wedding filled with sunshine, an autumn evening among the vines, or a spring ceremony under blooming trees, our Iowa wedding venue is ready to bring it to life.

A Note of Thanks

To Carina & Colton — thank you for sharing your day with us, for trusting us with your memories, and for letting The Vineyard be part of your story. Your wedding reminded us why we love what we do — watching two people celebrate love surrounded by beauty, laughter, and a community that cheers them on. We wish you both a lifetime of joy, sunshine, and the same easy laughter that filled the vineyard that day.

Planning Your Own Vineyard Wedding

If you’re engaged and beginning your planning journey, start with a tour of The Vineyard at St. Charles. We’d love to show you the bridal suites, ceremony lawn, and vineyard views in person. You can learn more about our wedding venue near Des Moines and explore planning tools like our complimentary Master Planner, designed to help you stay organized and stress-free as your date approaches.

Visit thevineyardatstcharles.com to inquire about available dates or schedule a private tour.

The Vineyard at St. Charles — where Iowa’s vineyard weddings come to life.