Week after week, our team receives and showcases breathtaking weddings from all across Iowa, all courtesy of the immensely talented wedding vendors and lovely couples who submit to us. Each month, our editorial team selects one spectacular wedding to highlight—one that stands above the rest for its uniqueness and beauty. For our July Vows That Wow, we are so excited to feature Amanda + Josiah Soderstrum!
With thoughtful details, flawless design, and heartfelt moments, Amanda and Josiah’s wedding at The Gathering Grounds was a dream from start to finish. Their romantic color palette, elegant florals, and joyful celebration created a day that perfectly reflected their love story.
The Wedding Day
From the moment guests arrived at The Gathering Grounds, it was clear that Amanda and Josiah’s day was curated with intention and style. The overall design struck a perfect balance between effortless elegance and a southern coastal charm. Powder blue bridesmaid dresses set the tone – soft and perfectly suited for the season. Throughout the day, hints of that dreamy blue could be found woven into details big and small, from the stationery to the table settings.
Amanda’s bouquet, along with the bridal party florals, was a stunning mix of classic white blooms and natural greenery, accented subtly with dusty blue touches. The arrangements felt organic and modern, elevating every space they touched while remaining timeless.
Amanda’s bridal look was flawlessly executed. Her glowing makeup was the work of Powder Studio, who gave her a natural-yet-polished glow that lasted all day. Her hairstyle, crafted by Cheyenne of Bare Blonde Studio, was the perfect blend of softness and sophistication. Amanda’s entire bridal party was also treated to the best of the best glam team, with Kelly and the team at Powder Studio on makeup duty and Cheyenne of Bare Blonde executing all of the hair.
The couple’s ceremony was both personal and picturesque, with a backdrop of greenery and blue sky creating the ultimate summer scene. As Amanda walked down the aisle, emotions ran high, and not just for the couple. Family and friends were drawn into every moment of the heartfelt vows and serene beauty of The Gathering Grounds that surrounded the two.
Amanda shared with us that the ceremony was one of her favorite parts of the day: “Our ceremony was equally special. Josiah’s dad officiated, and we had a powerful moment of worship where our closest friends prayed over us and our future together. Getting to publicly read the vows we had written, surrounded by the people who shaped us both individually and as a couple, was so meaningful. And then we celebrated with the best party ever — dancing with all our favorite people, creating memories we’ll hold onto for the rest of our lives.”
The Celebration
Following the ceremony, guests were treated to a reception that was both luxurious and welcoming. River Center Catering & Events served up a delicious menu that had everyone talking, while Marquee Events delivered a luxury reception setup that took the entire experience to the next level. From the cold sparks to the black and white dance floor, it was an incredible atmosphere.
The celebration continued well into the evening, with Marquee Events keeping the energy high and the dance floor full. From the first dance to the final song, Amanda and Josiah’s reception was a joyful celebration of their new life together, surrounded by the people who love them most.
Intentional Details & Lasting Memories
One of the most memorable aspects of Amanda and Josiah’s wedding was how effortlessly the design tied together by the incredibly talented White Willow Events. The subtle blue accents throughout, the clean white-and-green floral design, and the overall atmosphere of clean elegance made this wedding one that will stay in our hearts for a long time.
It was a day filled with laughter, love, and intentional beauty, brought to life by an incredible team of vendors and a couple whose warmth radiated through every detail.
Congratulations, Amanda + Josiah!
Your day was a true reflection of meaningful love and timeless style, and we’re honored to share it as this month’s Vows That Wow.
Buy the mag today to see their full feature in print!
Other Local Vendors:
Country Catering, The Royal Amsterdam, Nicole Laing Photography, Josephs Jewelers, Créme Bakery, Cedar Valley Strings, The White Dress Couture, Hannah Haisman, Oliver & Piper, The Dessy Group, The Black Tux
