Home of Gary and Denise Ellis

Wedding Day

Ceremony

Cocktail Hour

Reception/Dinner

Spring

Our Wedding

What began as an unexpected change of plans became the start of something remarkably serendipitous. In July 2025, Ana had a trip to Spain planned; when it was canceled, she opted to visit her brother and his family in Iowa.While there she created a dating app profile with no expectations and met Ryne. Their conversations quickly revealed shared interests and values—Ryne even had some familiarity with Brazil through his sister-in-law, which helped bridge the distance early on. Soon after they began chatting, Ryne asked Ana out for coffee; she declined, preferring to spend time with family.Undeterred, Ryne kept in touch, and what began as casual messages deepened into something meaningful. In October he flew to Brazil to meet Ana in person for the first time. Their meeting at the airport—where Ana’s parents were present—was equal parts thrilling and nerve-wracking.On that very first day together, Ryne presented Ana with a promise ring, a gesture that set the tone for their relationship. During his visit they explored Rio, met friends and family, relaxed on the beach, and introduced Ryne to Brazilian traditions—he particularly enjoyed his first caipirinhas.After time apart, Ana came to Iowa for Christmas and spent a month with Ryne’s family, growing closer and certain their relationship would endure.By March they decided to end long distance: Ana moved to Iowa on March 18th to begin their life together. A few days later, on March 21st, while walking through the Des Moines Botanical Gardens amid plants and waterfalls, Ryne knelt and proposed with a diamond ring. Ana said yes.Today they continue to laugh, support one another, and look forward to the next chapter as they prepare to celebrate their marriage i.

How We Met

Our Story

Bride and Groom will be staying here. Located in Cedar Rapids and with Paramount Theatre reachable within 6.1 miles, THE HOTEL AT KIRKWOOD CENTER has concierge services, non-smoking rooms, a garden, free WiFi throughout the property and a restaurant. This 3-star hotel offers room service and a 24-hour front desk. Guests can use a bar. Kinnick Stadium is 22 miles from the hotel. The Eastern Iowa Airport is 3.7 miles from the property.

The Hotel at Kirkwood Center

Adjacently attached to the Alliant Energy PowerHouse Arena and Convention Center, this Cedar Rapids hotel features a rooftop restaurant overlooking the Cedar River. Each guest room is equipped with internet access. In addition televisions are now 55 inch smart TVs with connected room capabilities at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cedar Rapids Convention Complex. Guests can enjoy the in-room iPod docking station and hairdryer included in the private bathroom. 350 First Restaurant offers city and river views and serves American fare for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. An indoor pool is available at Cedar Rapids Convention Complex DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel. A 24-hour fitness center is provided, and every guest receives a chocolate chip cookie upon arrival. The Paramount Theater can be reached in 6 minutes’ drive. The Eastern Iowa Airport is 9 miles away.

Doubletree by Hilton Cedar Rapids Convention Complex

Located in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, this hotel features an indoor pool, daily continental breakfast and spacious rooms with a flat-screen TV. Mount Mercy College is just 2.6 miles away. Each room is traditionally furnished and spacious. Standard amenities include a coffee maker, work desk and cable TV with HBO channels. Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Cedar Rapids North offers a small refrigerator in select rooms. The full-service business center provides fax, copy, and printing services, while free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel. Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Cedar Rapids North has an on-site gym. On select nights, guests can enjoy a light reception with free snacks and beverages. The U.S. Cellular Center, a multi-purpose arena, and the Cedar Rapids Convention Center are a 10-minute drive from this hotel. Hawkeye Downs Speedway Expo Center is a 15-minute drive away.

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Cedar Rapids North

Hilton Garden Inn Cedar Rapids

Located in Cedar Rapids, 4.2 miles from Paramount Theatre, Residence Inn by Marriott Cedar Rapids provides accommodations with barbecue facilities and private parking. The hotel has city views, a terrace, a 24-hour front desk, and free WiFi is available throughout the property. At the hotel rooms are equipped with air conditioning, a seating area, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a kitchenette, a dining area and a private bathroom with a hairdryer and a bath or shower. The rooms will provide guests with a fridge. Guests at Residence Inn by Marriott Cedar Rapids can enjoy an American breakfast. The accommodation offers 3-star accommodations with an indoor pool, fitness center and hot tub. For guests' convenience, Residence Inn by Marriott Cedar Rapids has a business center. Kinnick Stadium is 30 miles from the hotel. The Eastern Iowa Airport is 11 miles from the property.

Residence Inn Cedar Rapids

Eastern Iowa Airport (CID) is the closest airport to our wedding events and is located about 10–15 minutes from the venue. The airport is small, easy to navigate, and offers rental cars, rideshares, and taxi services for convenient transportation to nearby hotels and the event location. We recommend flying into CID for the quickest and easiest travel to the celebration.

Eastern Iowa Airport

Quad City International Airport (MLI) is another convenient airport option located about 60–75 minutes from the venue. It offers several major airline connections along with rental cars, taxis, and rideshare services. If flights into Eastern Iowa Airport are limited or expensive, MLI can be a great alternative for traveling to the wedding weekend.

Quad Cities International Airport

Des Moines International Airport (DSM) is another travel option located about two hours from the venue. As a larger airport, it offers more flight options and airline connections. Rental cars, taxis, and rideshare services are available to help you make the drive to the wedding location.

Des Moines International Airport

This is likely the most affordable travel option, with an approximately 3.5 to 4-hour drive to the wedding hotels and surrounding area.

Chicago O'Hare International Airport

Travel

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Social entertainment complex with year‑round golf bays featuring tech tracking, plus games like bowling-style targets, darts, and arcade; full food and drink menu—great for groups and families. Located in Tiffin, Iowa ~20–25 minutes from Cedar Rapids.

PinSocial Tiffin

Family-friendly modern bowling alley with leagues and open play; great for groups and casual nights out. Also features arcade games, pool tables, and a full food-and-drink menu (custom bowls, wings, burgers, and more). Located in North Liberty. 

Bowldogs

Iowa River Landing, a mixed-use development in Coralville, Iowa, is conveniently located off I-80 at exit 242. It offers a vibrant blend of retail, restaurants, entertainment, and offices along the picturesque Iowa River. Key attractions in Iowa River Landing include the Xtream Arena, a premier venue for sports events, the Hyatt Regency Hotel, a luxurious accommodation option, the Iowa River Landing Sculpture Walk, a captivating stroll featuring literary-themed art installations, and the Wetland Park, a serene oasis with elevated walkways and a viewing tower. Entertainment and events enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of options, such as the Xtream Arena and GreenState Family Fieldhouse, hosting thrilling sports events and family-friendly activities. The Coralville Farmers Market is a popular spot for local produce and artisanal goods, while FRYfest is a vibrant music festival that brings the community together. Shopping and dining options abound in Iowa River Landing. Visitors can explore a diverse range of national retailers and savor delicious local cuisine at restaurants like Anthropologie, AllSpice Culinarium, and Marquee Pizzeria. For those seeking a comfortable place to stay, the Hyatt Regency Coralville Hotel & Conference Center and Drury Inn & Suites offer a range of accommodations to suit different preferences. Outdoor enthusiasts can immerse themselves in nature at the Iowa River Landing Wetland Park, where elevated walkways and a viewing tower provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The Sculpture Walk offers a unique artistic experience, with its literary-themed installations that spark creativity and imagination.

Iowa River Landing 

Bars, restaurants, and hotels are all part of the Cedar Rapids Downtown District. The district aims to create a vibrant urban core by organizing events, advocating for businesses, and engaging in placemaking. They also play a crucial role in city-wide planning to ensure the development of a thriving economy. -Pickle Palace -Cobble Hill -Need Pizza

Downtown Cedar Rapids

Iowa City is a vibrant city in eastern Iowa, known as the home of the University of Iowa and a prominent college town with a lively downtown, diverse restaurants, and cultural attractions like the Old Capitol Building. The city features a bike-friendly environment, numerous parks, and is recognized for its unique blend of a small-town feel with urban amenities. Key Facts Nickname: Athens of Iowa. Attractions & Features: Downtown: A hub for bars, restaurants, and shops, with a focus on walkability and biking. University of Iowa: A major presence, with attractions like the Stanley Museum of Art and Kinnick Stadium. History: Home to the Old Capitol Building, the states first capitol, and the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum. Parks: Includes City Park and an extensive trail network connecting various green spaces. Vibe: Often described as a hip, urban college town that feels like a smaller version of cities like Austin or Madison, WI. Offers a mix of cultural experiences, outdoor activities, and a strong sense of community.

Downtown Iowa City 

If you want to squeeze in a quick round while youre in town, Brown Deer Golf Course is a convenient, well-maintained public course located at 1900 Country Club Dr in Coralville—call 319-248-9300 or visit https://www.browndeergolf.org/510/Brown-Deer-Golf-Club for tee times and course details.

Brown Deer Golf Course

Grace Community Church: Our weekly worship service and community gatherings. Service times and details — including childcare and accessibility — are on the church website: https://graceb3.org. Our mission: to glorify God by being disciples who make disciples, rooted in Scripture and committed to sharing the Gospel, serving others, and living faith daily.

Grace Community Church

Things to Do

Spring colors are encouraged! Since the ceremony and reception will be held outdoors, we kindly request that guests refrain from wearing jeans, shorts, and hats. Thank you for your cooperation in making our day special. You may want to bring a coat or jacket once the sun sets.

Dress Code

Registry

Current address: 1275 Emory Pl, Apt 104, North Liberty, IA 52317 Future address (effective August 1, 2026): 442 Watts Court, North Liberty, IA 52317

Address

October averages for Cedar Rapids, IA: Daily highs: 55–65°F (13–18°C) Daily lows: 40–47°F (4–8°C) We recommend bringing a coat or jacket.

Ana Carolina & Ryne

Ana Carolina & Ryne

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