Bridal Shower

The Monroe

Our Wedding

Ceremony

Reception

Sweet Treats & First Dances

Lexi and Brenden first met in high school after Lexi transferred to Southeast Polk. Brenden wasted no time trying to win her over and asked her on quite a few dates before she finally said yes. From suggesting they go herd cattle to going bowling, none of his first attempts quite worked—but he kept trying.Eventually, Lexi gave in to a date with half-price apps at Applebee’s and ice cream, and that’s where it all began. What they both thought would be just a casual night quickly turned into something more. They went from not expecting much to seeing each other every day for weeks straight, and officially started dating just two weeks later.Since then, their journey has been full of growth, laughter, and a few curveballs—navigating young love, building new careers, raising two dogs, and planning their future together. Before Lexi, Brenden was convinced he’d never settle down and would always be happiest with the guys. But after six years, Lexi has happily changed his mind, and now they’re excited to continue building a life together and finally become husband and wife.

High School Sweethearts 

Our Story

Photos

The groom's older brother who is the conservative to his chaos. The "Let's think this through" to Brenden's "Send it and see what happens." Growing up with him meant equal parts- guidance, competition and occasional life lectures he didn't ask for but probably needed! Brenden and Blake are wildly different in just about every way, which somehow makes them the perfect duo. Blake keeps things grounded, Brenden keeps things... interesting.

Blake Essex

The bride's go-to person no matter what life throws. She has been constant in Lexi's life; someone she can count on - no matter the situation. Kaitlyn is always there with encouragement and great advice. Having her standby the bride's side as her matron of honor means more than she can put into words.

Kaitlyn Hulseberg

Hunter and Lexi have always had the classic sibling energy - best friends one minute, arguing the next. As they have gotten older, that sibling chaos turned into a deeper bond and they truly cherish the time they get to spend making memories together. 

Hunter Schmidt

Brylee is not only the bride's sister-in-law, but such a special part of her life. She is supportive, fun, and always someone Lexi can count on. She is lucky to have gained her as family and even luckier to have her standing by her side on this day. 

Brylee Schmidt

The groom's best friend since diapers. Brenden and Tyler are living proof that putting two people with identical personalities together is either a great idea or a public safety concern. If there is chaos happening, odds are they are in the center of it. It is less of a friendship and more of a two man operation that has been confusing people for years.

Tyler Inman

The grooms sister and childhood arch nemesis. Brenden and Blaney spent most of their childhood perfecting the art of disagreeing on just about everything. Somewhere along the way it turned into actually getting along. She is strong, stubborn and someone Brenden is happy to have in his corner. However, he will still give her a hard time whenever he can.

Blaney Essex

Jacob and the groom have not been friends for too long, however you would think it's been years the way they clicked. They have the same odd sense of humor which means things tend to get out of hand quickly. The only real downside to Jacob is his golf game. 

Jacob Classon

Anna is one of those rare friends you meet in college and just instantly click with. They share so many of the same interests and outlooks on life, and she's been such a steady and supportive friend ever since. Lexi's is so grateful to have her by her side on their special day.

Anna Classon

Brenden met Ryan in high school, and somehow stuck together ever since. What started as just another friendship turned into a solid, no matter what kind of bond. Ryan is someone Brenden can always count on. He has been a great friend since day one.

Ryan Meyer

Allie is the definition of calm and collected. No matter what's going on, she brings balance, perspective, and the best advice. She's incredibly sweet, kind, and genuinely cares. Lexi is so thankful for her friendship on such a special day.  

Allie Gilbert

Brenden met Dylan in high school and they've been close buddies ever since. Dylan is always there whenever the groom needs him. He has a similar sense of humor and will do about anything! 

Dylan Smith

Kayla and the bride go all the way back to elementary school - back when life was simple and their biggest concern was laughing too hard in class. Not much had changed! She's been one of the most loyal, funny, and crazy friends. They built a friendship that has truly stood the test of time.

Kayla Evans

Shannon brings such calm support and thoughtfulness. She has the best eye for color, detail, and all the little things that matter most. 

Shannon Higdon

The bride's uncle - being both the officiant and the first in the family to meet Brenden which makes this moment even more meaningful.

Trent Hulseberg

The bride's uncle who is known for sharing plenty of jokes and laughs with the bride.

Matthew Higdon

The bride's cousin who is a perfect mix of funny and sweet - always keeping everyone laughing while being someone you can count on. 

Benjamin Higdon

The groom's cousin who is always down for a good time -  bringing energy, laughs, and a guaranteed good vibe wherever he goes.

Tyler Waugh

The bride's cousin who shares a special bond with the couple and will bring all of the sweetness and love to this beautiful day. 

Stella Hulseberg

The bride's cousin who will bring sweetness and sass down the aisle! 

Emma Hulseberg

The bride's cousin who is ready to strut, smile, and maybe steal the spotlight down the aisle!

Mack Hulseberg 

The bride's aunt and uncle who are here to make sure the day is full of joy, laughter, and fun!

Christopher and Jenn Higdon

The groom's family friend who holds a special place in his heart -  keeping the party going!

Todd and Jenny Inman

Eden may be a newer friend, but she's made a big impact in a short time. She knows who to get things done and somehow understands Lexi so well already. She's organized, capable, and steps up when needed. Eden knows Lexi is type B so she will be there to make sure all the crazy things that need done actually happen!

Eden Casotti

Our Wedding Party

Q + A

We invite our guests to dress in summer floral or garden party attire. Think elegant, light, and celebratory with soft colors to compliment a June evening.

Attire Guidance 

Located across the street from Jordan Creek Town Center and 12 miles from downtown Des Moines, Hampton Inn &amp; Suites West Des Moines Mill Civic offers accommodations in West Des Moines. The hotel features an indoor pool and hot tub. Free WiFi access is available. Each room at the hotel provides a 42” flat-screen HDTV, a microwave and a refrigerator. Private bathrooms come complete with a bath or shower and a hairdryer. A 24-hour front desk welcomes guests to Mill Civic Hampton Inn &amp; Suites West Des Moines, which offers free coffee and tea. Guests can enjoy the 24-hour business center and the fitness center. Other amenities offered at the property include a 24-hour convenience store and complimentary breakfast. Board games are available upon request. The property offers free parking Des Moines International Airport is 12 miles away from the hotel. Hy-Vee Conference Center is a 7-minute drive away.

Hampton Inn & Suites West Des Moines/SW Mall Area

Hyatt Place West Des Moines/Jordan Creek is located in West Des Moines, 12 miles from Iowa Events Center and 12 miles from Hy-Vee Hall. With a terrace, the 3-star hotel has air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, each with a private bathroom. Guests can enjoy American dishes at the restaurant or have a drink at the bar. At the hotel, every room includes a desk. All guest rooms at Hyatt Place West Des Moines/Jordan Creek are equipped with a seating area and a flat-screen TV with cable channels. Speaking English and Spanish at the reception, staff are always at hand to help. Wells Fargo Arena is 12 miles from the accommodation, while Science Center of Iowa is 12 miles away. Des Moines International Airport is 10 miles from the property.

Hyatt Place West Des Moines Jordan Creek

Located in West Des Moines and with Iowa Events Center reachable within 11 miles, Hilton Garden Inn West Des Moines provides express check-in and check-out, non-smoking rooms, a terrace, free WiFi throughout the property and a bar. Providing a restaurant, the property also features a fitness center, as well as an indoor pool and a hot tub. The property has room service, a 24-hour front desk and luggage storage for guests. Guests at the hotel can enjoy a buffet or a Full English/Irish breakfast. A business center and vending machines with snacks and drinks are available on site at Hilton Garden Inn West Des Moines. Hy-Vee Hall is 11 miles from the accommodation, while Wells Fargo Arena is 11 miles away. Des Moines International Airport is 10 miles from the property. We no longer feature in-room whirlpool - we look forward to welcoming you soon.

Brenden & Lexi

Brenden & Lexi

B&L