Willow on Grand

Ceremony

Reception

Summer

Our Wedding

Our story began at the University of Sioux Falls, where we first crossed paths as college athletes—Caitlin on the volleyball court and David on the baseball diamond. Caitlin had noticed David around campus (hard to miss, honestly), and thought he seemed pretty intriguing. But when it came to tracking him down online? He might as well have been a social media ghost. No posts, no tags—just pure mystery. God had other plans, though. One day, Caitlin was walking back to her dorm when she noticed David about 20 feet ahead of her. Like a true gentleman, he held the door open for her (while she was still 20 feet away, no less). Note to the guys out there: chivalry is alive, and it might just lead you to your future wife !! Their first attempt at something more fizzled out after a couple of months, but Caitlin had a feeling there was something more there, even if it wasn’t clear at the time. A year later, after keeping in touch as friends they gave their relationship another shot. In March 2023, they officially made it "official." That summer, David came home with Caitlin to meet her family and be her plus-one at one of her best friend’s weddings (fun fact: the wedding was at the same venue we’re getting married at in August!!). After that, Caitlin had one semester left of college, and they made the most of the time they had together before they would be long-distance again for many more months. Then came the long-distance phase. 11 months of facetime calls, road trips, and lots of patience. Every reunion made the distance feel worth it, and every moment together was that much sweeter. Now, the best part—long distance is officially in the rearview mirror. No more "who’s visiting who" or waiting for the next trip. We’re finally in the same place, and we're excited to start this next chapter together. Here's to making the most of the time ahead, as we build a life together as husband and wife!

Our Story

Photos

Peyton Rittman

Elly Hamby

Jordan Kuper

Callie Carlson

Jordyn Hamm 

Hailey Tysdal

Molly Vander Leest

Anna Reding 

Jacob Swanson

Andrew Swanson

Cade Ritchey

Jack Swanson

Jared Topil

Mason Leonard

Dane Small 

Joey Meurer

Gabe Kristall

Wedding Party

Q + A

The hotels do not offer shuttle service to the venue. We recommend driving or using a ride service like Uber or Lyft to get to and from the wedding.There is parking available at the venue for guests who choose to drive.

Rate: (1) King: $171 (2) Queen: $161 Last Day to Book: June 30th, 2025

Drury Inn & Suites West Des Moines

Last Day to Book: July 18th, 2025

Hyatt Place West Des Moines

Surety Hotel

sleeps 10, 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms

4 Bedroom VRBO 

Travel

Food

Clyde's Fine Dinerfancy-ish take on a retro diner  ﻿St. KildaAustralian-style breakfast + brunch

Coffee

Horizon Lineyou get a glass jar! Northern Vessel Scenic Routegreat natural lighting and plenty of space for work Hobnob Coffee

Activities Around Town

Downtown Farmers’ MarketIowa State FairEast Village ShoppingJordan Creek MallBike rentals downtownThe Rose FarmBlank Park ZooSmash ParkDes Moines Art CenterGray’s LakePappajohn Sculpture Park

Things to Do

Registry

The Night Before Details

We’re kicking off the wedding weekend with a welcome party, and we’d love for you to join us!Des Moines Golf &amp; Country Club – Candlelight RoomThursday, August 14th from 8:00–10:00 PMIf you're in town, come say hi and celebrate with us before the big day!

DAY OF DETAILS

CeremonyTime: 4:30 PMLocation: Willow on Grand (outdoor area)Join us as we celebrate our love and exchange vows. Cocktail HourImmediately following the ceremonyLocation: Willow on Grand ReceptionTime: Approx. 6:00 PMLocation: Inside Willow on GrandDinner, dancing, and lots of love—let’s celebrate!

Caitlin & David

Caitlin & David

Wedding Party