A Classic, Elegant Wedding at Bella Sala in Iowa City, Iowa

During their freshmen year at the University of Iowa, newlyweds Cody (26 and a nurse) and Michael (26 and a pharmacist) met when they were assigned to each other as biology lab partners. The bad news: They were both dating other people. "After the semester ended, we slowly lost contact with one another," Cody explains. "Three years later, my sister saw Michael getting interviewed on the campus news and I looked up his number on the student directory. I sent him a text and two weeks later, we went on a date. We've been inseparable ever since." For their October wedding in Iowa City, the couple exchanged vows at St. Mary's downtown before moving the celebration to Bella Sala -- a modern, elegant event space located 15 minutes from the church. "The whole feel of the day was really classic," the bride says. "Originally, I was leaning toward a rustic vibe, but it didn't fit well with the reception venue." Ivory and pink flower arrangements and light-filled lanterns adorned the open space at Bella Sala -- giving the reception an elegant, yet romantic look. Guests snacked on homemade trail mix (a tailgate recipe compliments of Michael's mother) and a triple-layer wedding cake from Yummy's bakery in Coralville. The couple even gifted family and friends with custom pint glasses that included a photo of Michael, Cody and their dog, Sully. "Michael and I both enjoy craft beers, so these cups meant a lot to us," the bride says. At the end of the night, an unexpected visitor surprised the newlyweds on the dance floor. "Herky -- the mascot of the University of Iowa -- surprised us!" the bride says. "He danced on the dance floor and ended up taking pictures with all of our guests!"