Wedding Day

Gloria Dei Lutheran Church

Ceremony

Toast

Cocktail Hour

Reception

Our Wedding

Henry and I actually grew up just a few blocks from each other. We went to the same elementary school from kindergarten through 5th grade, although we were never in the same class. In middle school, we later discovered that our paths had crossed in 6th grade when we found an old homeroom picture, but even then, we did not really know each other.   It was not until sophomore year of high school, when we had chemistry together, that we truly connected. We were assigned seats next to each other and ended up in the same lab group. In October of 2019, I (Anna) started developing what I like to call a “small (major)” teenage crush on Henry.   At the start of 2020, we began talking outside of class, usually while studying together. One time I helped Henry prepare for a biology exam, only to find out he did not actually need the help. He just wanted an excuse to talk with me, and of course he ended up scoring better than I did on the test.   After about a month of talking and hanging out, we made it official on February 10, 2020. A month later, COVID-19 began, and from there we navigated so many seasons and challenges side by side. We went to school dances, cheered each other on during sports seasons (Henry even joined cross country with me), and graduated high school.   Both being lifelong Cyclone fans, we continued on to Iowa State. There, we found community in our sorority and fraternity, cheered at countless football and basketball games, went to date parties and formals, and enjoyed late-night walks around campus. We made silly adventures out of small moments, supported each other through classes, and even traveled across the world to Dubai and other wonderful places. Along the way, we visited new cities, celebrated countless birthdays and holidays together, and made many special memories with our closest friends.   Fast forward to July 26, 2025, after 5 and a half years together, Henry planned the perfect proposal. He put together the sweetest day filled with farmers market coffee, movie watching, and dinner at our favorite restaurant in Ames. Afterwards, we went for a walk on a trail we had strolled many times before and where we had even taken pictures on multiple anniversaries. It was there that Henry asked the question! A family friend was hiding in the grass to capture the special moment, and afterwards Henry had arranged a huge celebration at my family’s home with our closest friends and family. It truly was a day we will never forget.   Since starting our relationship at just 15 and 16, we have grown up together through so many memories, challenges, and milestones. I graduated college in May 2025, and Henry will be graduating in December 2025. Right now we are navigating long distance as I complete a residency year in Chicago to earn my Administrator’s License, but it has only made our relationship stronger each day.   We cannot wait to officially become husband and wife on June 5, 2026, and we are so excited to share that special day with you.

Our Story

Photos

My younger sister and lifelong best friend. She’s my go-to gal, always has my back, and has the biggest heart. I’m so lucky to look up to her every day.

Sophie Schmitz

My college best friend. We met on our dorm floor and were roommates for two years. Wherever you find Jillian, you’ll most likely find me too, truly two peas in a pod.

Jillian Keppy

My college bestie! We met through our sorority freshman year and were roomies. she has a heart of gold and always making her people feel special.

Mikayla Farmer

My sorority 'little' turned bestie! Davis is someone I can talk and laugh with about anything. She's incredibly hardworking and makes everything more fun!

Davis Schmidt

My sorority 'big' and college best friend. She’s an old soul who gives the best advice and is someone I can always count on. I’m so lucky to have her in my life!

Kylie Mcglade

One of my best friends. We met our freshman year of college through our sorority. I can always count on her for deep talks, the best hugs, and, some crazy times.

Avery Michels

Ava is Henry's younger sister and my future sister-in-law. She’s such a kind soul and effortlessly cool, it’s been a true joy getting to know her throughout my relationship with Henry.

Ava Loch

Hannah and I met on the Iowa State Facebook page during our senior year of high school. Four years and countless memories later, we've remained close friends ever since!

Hannah Albrecht

McKenna and I are cousins. Whether it's family reunions, lake days, or vacations, you can always find us in the corner talking and laughing away.

Mckenna Ludwig

Reid McMartin 

Alan Young

Michael Miller

Jacob Moberly

Tyler Sullivan

Carsen Jones

Ryan Crawford

Blake Clabaugh

Dain Moermond

Wedding Party

Q + A

What Is Cocktail Wedding Attire?

Cocktail Dresses to Add to Your Cart ASAP

What Guys Need to Know About Dress Codes

We’d love to see everyone dressed up for the celebration, "Wedding Cocktail Attire"! Please no jeans or casual wear. For men, slacks with a long-sleeve, button-down collared dress shirt, tie, or blazer are optional. For women, a midi dress or long dress, a stylish mini dress, a dressy skirt and top, or a polished jumpsuit. Comfortable heels or dressy flats complete the look.

Dress Code

Hotel room blocks have been reserved at two convenient locations, just one mile from our venue. The hotels are also within walking distance of each other, making it easy for guests to stay nearby and connect throughout the weekend. Transportation will be provided throughout the evening to and from the venue; more details to come closer to the wedding date. Use the links below to access the booking pages for the Schmitz–Loch Wedding and reserve your room at the special group rate. We recommend booking early to ensure availability!

Staybridge Suites Des Moines Ankeny, an IHG Hotel

Holiday Inn Express and Suites Ankeny

Travel

We’re so excited to celebrate in Ankeny, where Henry and I both grew up. Our venue is located right in The District at Prairie Trail, a fun, walkable area just a mile from the hotels. The District has great restaurants, bars, boutiques, sweet treats, and plenty of little spots to explore. We hope you enjoy the area that feels like home to us! Dining: 30Hop, District 36, Flavory Bistro, Grimaldi’s, Hidalgo, Jethro’s BBQ, Jersey Mike’s, Magee’s, Wasabi. Breakfast & Sweets: The Breakfast Club, Smokey Row, Good Day DSM, Everbowl, Cold Stone, Cinnaholic, Rise & Grind. Entertainment: AR Workshop, B&B Theatre & B-Roll Bowling, Net Par, The Operating Room. Shopping: House of Color, Mainstream Boutique, Maria Vincent Boutique, Purple Poppy, The Elements. Bars: Whiskey River, Sterling’s, The Operating Room, Winestyles.

The District at Prairie Trail

Henry and I love this place, it’s one of our favorites in the Des Moines area. If you’re into really good smash burgers, this is the spot. It’s super casual, always delicious, and just an easy place we go back to all the time.

Lachele's Fine Foods + The Fitz

Our favorite sushi spot in downtown Des Moines. The sushi is always fresh, and it’s a place Henry and I never get tired of.

Henry & Anna

Henry & Anna

Dress Code

WEDDING COCKTAIL

Ideas & Advice