A Waukon Wedding Full of Sunshine, Sentiment, and Celebration
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ZACH + KENNEDY | JULY 12th 2025
There’s a kind of warmth that can only come from a wedding deeply rooted in family, love, and community—and Zach and Kennedy’s Waukon, Iowa celebration radiated that feeling from beginning to end.
From the moment the day began, it was clear this celebration would be filled with love, laughter, and deep meaning. The couple’s three beautiful children were present throughout the day, making it all the more special and unforgettable. The morning kicked off with getting ready photos at a bright and welcoming local salon, where the bride wore her mother’s wedding robe—an incredibly touching tribute. Her bouquet held a delicate pin in memory of her mom, a reminder that love and legacy walk alongside us on life’s biggest days. After Kennedy helped her baby girls get into their fluffy flower girl dresses her matron of honor helped button her dream wedding dress - they all looked absolutely stunning!
Zach and Kennedy’s first look took place in front of the most beautiful stained glass windows—an intimate moment full of joy and a few happy tears. Then came the church ceremony, where their heartfelt vows left the room alternating between laughter and tissues.
Following the ceremony, the wedding party climbed aboard a decorated dairy wagon (a true Iowa touch!), making a stop at a breathtaking field with a train car backdrop. There, they joked around and toasted with champagne under the sun —a champagne pause in the day's joyful momentum.
Next stop: Lids! With axe throwing, shots, and custom coozies in hand, the group brought energy and fun before heading off to one of my favorite party spots—the Allamakee Fairgrounds Pavilion. This venue is quickly stealing my heart, and this reception was one for the books!
The couple’s grand entrance was greeted with a flurry of confetti, setting the tone for a high-energy, emotional, and unforgettable night. The toasts had everyone wiping their eyes one minute and belly-laughing the next. The first dances were sweet and precious, made even more special by watching the couple's children enjoy the confetti-covered dance floor while they reached to join in.
The reception décor was absolutely showstopping—large prints of the couple’s engagement photos were displayed throughout the venue, creating a personal and stunning visual story of their love. And one of the most unique details? Every table was adorned with sheds from the groom’s massive antler collection, bringing the perfect rustic and personal touch to the celebration.
And let’s talk about the food: meatballs, smoked beef, baked potatoes, salad, rolls—comfort food at its finest and absolutely delicious. Kennedy and Zach were so kind to check in and make sure Rachel and I had a plate (and yes, we are still thinking about how yummy it was).
Dessert? A dream. A table packed with the most mouthwatering cookies and cake pops. And when it came time to cut the cake, the couple used a cake knife that once belonged to their grandparents—yet another beautiful nod to the generations of love that led them here.
One of the most emotional moments of the day was watching Zach carry a photo of a loved one down the aisle and place it at the altar. It was a quiet, powerful gesture that showed just how deeply this couple honors the people who’ve shaped their story and how they’ll always be part of their journey.
Getting to know these two has been a blessing and I hope you all enjoy looking back at Zach and Kennedy’s day through my lens:
Every part of Zach and Kennedy’s day was woven with intention, heart, and the incredible support of their loved ones. Thank you both for letting us be a part of this beautiful day. We are wishing you the happiest, fullest forever.
Love,
Jillian + Rachel
PS Follow along because highlight film’s coming soon!
The Vendor Team:
Hair: Emily Dahlstrom with Gemini Salon Spa
Makeup: Riley Einck
The Dress: The Dress by Morgan
Florals (Decor): Created by the Matron of Honor 💐
Bridal Bouquet & Groom’s Boutonniere: Decorah Floral
Venues: First Presbyterian Church Waukon, IA + Allamakee County Fairgrounds Pavilion
DJ: Steve Hill
Photography + Film: JWebbArt Jillian Herrmann | Rachel Hach
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