Traditional Romantic Fall Wedding, Sioux Falls, South Dakota
“We grew up together, now let’s grow old together.”
WEDDING DATE We got married on October 9, 2021. We wanted it to be in the fall sometime so it wasn't too hot or too cold. My dad was not too happy about it because he's a farmer and it's harvest time so he was a little busy during wedding week.
THE PROPOSAL We decided to go on a weekend hike to Mt. Evans in Colorado. Once we got there, Eli realized the trail he wanted to propose on was closed so he had to improvise and found a different hike. Once we finished, we decided to go further up the mountain to a lookout. Eli found a nice view to take a picture. As we got ready to take the picture, Eli surprised me and got down on one knee and proposed! It was a complete surprise and he got it all on video! I'm so glad we have that video to cherish always. It was just Eli and I. I was so excited to call our family after he proposed, but we were on the top of a mountain with no cell service so I had to wait about and hour all excited to tell everyone we were engaged until we got down the mountain.
WEDDING PLANNING MANTRA It was a little difficult planning due to Covid. Everyone was either really booked due to having to reschedule their events or low staff. It was also hard because I was planning a wedding from a different state. Our parents helped us so much by going to meetings for us and FaceTiming us so we were still there. They were extremely helpful! Other than that it really wasn't too bad. I wasn't stressed as I knew everything would work out.
FAVORITE MOMENT My favorite part was the first look. I was so excited to see Eli and have him see me in my dress. He was so cute and nervous, which I've never really seen before. It was a special moment for us to be alone without having our bridal party distracting us.
THE DRESS My mom and sister flew out to Colorado to go dress shopping with me. We went to a few places and tried on about 4-5 dresses at each place. Then we went to the last stop which was The Bridal Collection and I tried on about 3-4 and finally found my dress. I loved my dress because it was eloquent yet still had something special about it. I loved how the sequins around the bust and waist outlined my body. My straps were also detachable so I was able to take those off for the reception so I could dance my heart out.
BEST ADVICE I would say don't stress the small stuff. I did and honestly it's not worth worrying about. Things will work out and if it doesn't, no one will even notice.
THREE WORDS THAT DESCRIBE OUR DAY Amazing. Fun. Happy.
ELI SAYS … Alli is beautiful, caring, and passionate. We have both changed over the years and will continue to but the love that Alli shows me never changes. She has always been a huge supporter to me. I would not know what to do with out her. I am so excited for our future hopefully with kids and a beautiful family. As I watch her with our puppy, Oakley, I know for certain that she will be an amazing mother some day.
ALLI SAYS … Eli is strong, handsome, funny, caring, smart, great dog dad, and very stubborn! We have grown throughout the years and have brought out the best in each other. I have learned a lot from Eli and continue to do so. I can't wait to see what our future holds.