A Love Story by the River: Coordinating Emily & Brandon's Romantic River Center Wedding in Des Moines
- Hannah Culbertson
- 1 day ago
- 5 min read
Love was in the air, fireworks were in the sky, and the celebration was nothing short of magical—Emily and Brandon’s wedding at The River Center in Des Moines was a day filled with laughter, elegance, and unforgettable memories. As Des Moines day-of coordinators with Vibrant Events Company, we had the absolute pleasure of orchestrating this beautiful day alongside an amazing couple, their warm families, and a vendor team that helped bring every dreamy detail to life.
This wasn’t just a wedding—it was a heartfelt love story, told against the backdrop of one of the most stunning wedding venues in Des Moines.
The Morning Spark
The morning of May 16, 2025, began with a quiet excitement as Emily, surrounded by her closest loved ones, got ready at home. With music humming in the background and the scent of fresh florals soon to fill the air, Lauren Elizabeth from Marc Stephens Salon worked her magic on hair, while Breiyan Reed enhanced everyone’s natural beauty with flawless makeup.
Meanwhile, Sierra from English Rose Floral arrived at The River Center wedding venue to begin setting up the floral arrangements—soft petals, romantic hues, and elegant textures were just the beginning of a vision in full bloom.
At 12:30 PM, our Vibrant Events duo, Hannah and Katie, arrived on site. As the River Center coordination team, we hit the ground running—double-checking layouts, directing vendor setups, and making sure the magic unfolded seamlessly. The result? A stunning venue transformed into a romantic paradise with personal touches in every corner.
First Look Feels
While the boys suited up at The River Center, anticipation built for the moment Emily and Brandon would lay eyes on each other. At 2 PM, they shared a first look at Emily & Brandon's home—a quiet, intimate pause before the whirlwind of the day swept them up. The look on Brandon’s face as he saw Emily for the first time was pure magic.
Bethany McNeill, their talented photographer, captured every stolen glance, every touch, every joy-filled tear. The wedding party then headed to Des Moines’ iconic Waterworks Park for dreamy portraits surrounded by nature—a peaceful interlude before returning to the hustle and heart of the venue.
The Main Event: A River Center Wedding Ceremony
Guests began arriving at the River Center around 4 PM, welcomed by the first ride of the charming River Center Trolley. Friends and family mingled as excitement built. At 5 PM, the music slowed, and all eyes turned as Emily, radiant in white, walked down the aisle. Her cousin Laura officiated with warmth and grace, sharing memories, laughter, and blessings that echoed in the hearts of every guest.
With 130 of their favorite people watching on, Emily and Brandon exchanged vows in a ceremony that blended elegance with intimacy—exactly the type of event that makes The River Center wedding venue so cherished in Des Moines.
Cocktails, Conversations & Charm
As the newlyweds shared their first quiet moment as husband and wife, the celebration shifted outdoors to cocktail hour. Guests enjoyed passed appetizers under the spring sky while sipping drinks, catching up with old friends, and watching the floral aisle pieces be beautifully repurposed into reception table centerpieces by our coordination team.
These moments of calm, paired with fresh air and familiar faces, are what make cocktail hours at wedding venues in Des Moines like the River Center feel so special.
Dinner, Dancing & Delight
At 7 PM, the crowd was welcomed back inside for the grand entrance—and what an entrance it was! The wedding party brought the energy, and Emily and Brandon entered to thunderous applause before gliding straight into their first dance.
Tears flowed during the Father/Daughter and Mother/Son dances, moments that reminded everyone that this day was not just about a couple—but about two families joining together.
Instead of a traditional sit-down dinner, the couple opted for interactive heavy hors d’oeuvres stations—guests raved about the delicious variety and relaxed atmosphere. It was a perfect blend of elegance and fun, embodying Emily and Brandon’s joyful spirit.
Their heartfelt thank-you speech followed—a touching tribute to their parents, bridal party, and guests. Then came the cake cutting, a sweet moment in every sense, before the dessert table was revealed like a treasure trove of treats.
Group Photo & Fireworks
At 8 PM, we gathered everyone on the dance floor for a massive group photo—a high-energy snapshot of this unforgettable day. It was a perfect prelude to the dance party that followed, fueled by the expert tunes of DJ Tyson from Marquee Events.
And just when guests thought the night couldn’t get better—fireworks lit up the sky. Yes, real iCubs fireworks burst into view around 9:45 PM, illuminating not just the River Center’s walls but the love shared between Emily and Brandon. It felt serendipitous, a sky celebrating the spark between two soulmates.
Late Night Bites & Lasting Memories
The party was far from over—late night pizza and fries were served at 9:30 PM, giving everyone a second wind to keep dancing. As the final songs played and the last drinks were poured, the River Center Trolley made its return to shuttle guests safely back to their hotels.
At 10:45 PM, with the music fading and the florals gently moved aside, the couple shared one last quiet moment, soaking in the magic of the day they’d never forget.
A Wedding for the Ages—And Why We Loved Every Second
This day was a dream—and not just for Emily and Brandon. As the Des Moines day-of coordinators from Vibrant Events Company, we were honored to bring their vision to life. From the early morning prep to the final dance, we managed the timeline, handled the details, and ensured that the couple could focus on what mattered most—each other.
The River Center proved once again why it’s one of the most sought-after wedding venues in Des Moines. With its flexible space, incredible staff, and downtown charm, it offered the perfect canvas for this love story.
And the vendors? Phenomenal. Clare’s florals from English Rose were swoon-worthy. Bethany’s photography captured every emotion. DJ Tyson from Marquee Events had everyone on their feet. Even the dessert table from Sam’s Club had guests going back for seconds.
Every single piece came together thanks to detailed River Center coordination, a solid timeline, and the couple’s relaxed, joyful energy.
A Final Word about Coordination at The River Center
Emily and Brandon’s wedding at The River Center wasn’t just a celebration—it was a testament to love, laughter, and lasting partnerships. From their heartfelt vows to the fireworks above, every moment was filled with meaning and magic.
To future couples dreaming of their own Des Moines wedding—know this: when you find the right venue, the right team, and the right partner, the rest falls perfectly into place. And if you’re looking for a Des Moines day-of coordinator who will treat your wedding as if it were their own—you know who to call.
With love and confetti,
Your experts in love, logistics, and celebration. 💍✨
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