Alysse + Michael | Wedding Sneak Peek | Eagle Point Lodge, Clinton, Iowa
October 18th, 2025 turned out to be one of those picture-perfect Midwest fall days. All week the forecast had us bracing for gray skies, but instead we got golden light, vibrant color, and, well, a few too many bugs. We managed!
Alysse and Michael said “I do” at Eagle Point Lodge surrounded by their friends, family, and their sweet baby boy, Myles, who was just a few months old and already stealing the show. Their day was filled with thoughtful details that reflected who they are: fun, family-oriented, and full of heart. Their guest book was a set of bags boards (how perfect is that?), their color palette mixed navy, maroon, crème, and autumn orange, and the entire day flowed effortlessly thanks to Alysse’s organization.
The ceremony began at 3:00, and for once, we were ahead of schedule—always a photographer’s dream. Alysse had both her mom and dad walk her down the aisle, and Michael’s reaction to seeing her was priceless. Her dress from Storybook Ending in DeWitt was absolutely stunning, and those sleeves were everything. Her mom was also her mother of honor, which I thought was so sweet. As someone who works side by side with my own mom, I have a soft spot for moments like that.
The groom’s brother-in-law, Shane, officiated beautifully, and the day rolled right into a celebration that was as heartfelt as it was fun. Downtown Pub catered (delicious as always), Cookies by Design provided the desserts, and Ultimate Entertainment kept the dance floor packed all night. We even squeezed in a table dash after the grand entrance, and I have to say I’m a big fan of this trend. You get to photograph every guest in under five minutes, and it’s pure chaos in the best way.
One of my favorite moments came during the first dance, when Alysse and Michael’s baby boy was brought in halfway through so they could dance with him. I remember her talking about this idea when she was still pregnant, and seeing it happen in real life was so special. It felt like a perfect full-circle moment to end a perfect day.
Congratulations again, Alysse and Michael. What a beautiful celebration of love, family, and a brand-new chapter together.
Vendor Shout-Outs
Venue: Eagle Point Lodge, Clinton, Iowa
Dress: Storybook Ending, DeWitt
Catering: Downtown Pub
Desserts: Cookies by Design
DJ: Ultimate Entertainment
Photography: Artsmith Photography