The Ellinghuysen Wedding
08.02.2025

Dani and Ethan’s Northeast Iowa wedding was the perfect mix of heartfelt moments, small-town charm, and a little bit of farm flair. Their love story began at Iowa State, where Ethan fell head over heels instantly—and won Dani over in a snap. Bonding over ag science classes and Iowa State ball games, they quickly became inseparable, and from what it sounds like, this crew knew how to tailgate. Even though life has had them apart while Dani finishes school, their relationship only grew stronger, rooted in their shared love of farm life, friends, family, and faith.

Their wedding day carried a calm excitement—the kind that feels both comfortable and uplifting. They chose St. John’s Lutheran Church in Waukon for their ceremony, where they shared their first look right at the altar. After capturing family and wedding party photos, the sanctuary filled with friends and family eager to witness their vows. The entire day flowed effortlessly, with no rush, just genuine joy. Following the ceremony, Dani and Ethan ushered their guests from the pews, and a few large group photos were taken before the wedding party headed to the bride’s family farm—traveling in style on a wagon pulled by a John Deere tractor. I’m seeing this Waukon Wagon Ride wedding tradition, and I’m here for it.

The cattle, however, decided they weren’t in the mood for close-ups that day, but that didn’t stop the fun. After a few farm photos, the group hopped onto the Iowa State party bus for more adventures, making two quick stops for photos with slightly more cooperative cows before heading to their grand entrance at Pinter’s Event Center. Pinter’s was a stunning choice—bright natural light streaming through the windows, a spacious layout perfect for celebrating, and a patio and playground that kept both kids and adults entertained.

Grandpa kicked off the reception with a beautiful dinner prayer and testimony. Dinner from U2 Catering was delicious, and the line moved so quickly it surprised everyone. The toasts were the perfect mix of sweet, heartfelt words and lighthearted humor. A special shoutout goes to Ryan with Elite DJ for recording the speeches—such a thoughtful touch that made this photo film team’s life a touch easier!

After toasts, Dani and Ethan cut their gorgeous cake and playfully shared it with each other. They took to the dance floor for their first dance as Mr. and Mrs. Ellinghuysen and sunlight poured through the windows. They followed with a mother-son and father-daughter dance but took it one step further—inviting all the moms and sons, dads and daughters to join them on the dance floor. It was such a warm, inclusive gesture, a beautiful reminder of how much they care for their people.

As the evening continued, it was clear that this was more than just a wedding—it was a gathering of a community that had poured love and support into Dani and Ethan’s journey. I left the night feeling deeply grateful to have been part of their perfect day and wishing them a lifetime of happy healthy cattle, peachy sunsets, and the most wonderful forever together.