Every detail of Bella and Hunter’s colorful backyard wedding in Clear Lake, IA was carefully chosen- not to follow tradition, but to create a day that felt unmistakably them. They poured their hearts into planning a wedding that was vibrant, laid-back, and centered on their people. It was a celebration that captured the same energy as their beloved lake town’s Fourth of July gatherings, filled with color, warmth, and effortless joy.

Their approach to their colorful backyard wedding felt so similar to their adventureous engagement session in Sanibel Island, Florida– a place that felt like a second home from the time they spent there together. When we documented their love in their favorite hidden spots on the island, it was all about capturing their connection in a space that held deep meaning for them. Their wedding day was no different- trading the ocean breeze for the familiar comfort of Bella’s childhood backyard, the summer air, and the people who have shaped their love story.

Bringing Their Vision to Life with Colorful, Thoughtful Details

If one thing defined Bella and Hunter’s wedding visually, it was color- bold, joyful, and full of personality. Every detail was designed to create an atmosphere that felt lively, welcoming, and intentional.

Here’s how they brought their vibrant vision to life:

1. Bright, mismatched satin bridesmaid dresses in shades of red, pink, blue, green, orange, and yellow made their bridal party look as lively and dynamic as the celebration itself. Each dress was chosen to reflect individual personalities while still feeling cohesive in their boldness.
2. Vibrant, seasonal florals crafted by Blushing Garden featured a playful mix of sunset hues in Bella’s personal bouquet. To make the colorful bridesmaid dress stand on their own, their own bouquets were comprised of white orchids and cala lillies.
3. Eclectic, colored glassware set up for guests to chose brought in a playful mix of hues.
4. A glowing backyard atmosphere with string lights and lush greenery transformed their outdoor space into something truly magical as the sun set over their yard.
5. A “Made with Hardt” (a nod to their last name Gerhardt) grilling station added not only a fun, interactive element for guests, but also another pop of color as the cookout style dishes were served in their own colorful burger baskets.

A Backyard Wedding Rooted in Connection

For Bella and Hunter, their wedding wasn’t just about saying “I do”—it was about bringing together the people they love most and celebrating the way they always have. That meant hosting the kind of gathering where everyone felt at home—good food, great conversation, and a night that felt more like a backyard party than a formal event.

Here are some unique ways they rooted their colorful backyard wedding in connection:

1. A private first touch – With a first look down the aisle planned for their ceremony, they took a quiet moment together earlier in the day for a private first touch. With Hunter seated, Bella came up behind him to hold his hand so they could soak in the day together without seeing each other. The moment was filled with emotion, anticipation, and love.
2. A Private Champagne Toast – Just the two of them, stealing a quiet moment during their reception to sip the same champagne from their proposal, soaking in the weight of the day.
3. An RV Getaway Exit – Their honeymoon adventure started the second they left—driving off in the RV they’d soon take on the road together.

From start to finish, the day reflected who they are—a couple that values experiences over expectations and moments over formality.

A Laid-Back, People-First Celebration

At the core of everything, Bella and Hunter’s wedding was built around the people who made them who they are. They didn’t just invite guests to witness their wedding; they invited them to experience it fully—to laugh, eat, dance, and celebrate alongside them. They shared unhurried moments with family and friends and had a wedding day that felt like home in all the best ways.