Some weddings feel joyful from the very first moment — and Jianna Gillhaus and Matthew Bartholomew’s colorful August celebration at Laurel Ridge Barn in Sioux Falls was exactly that! Between the vibrant wildflowers, the handcrafted details, and the views of horses grazing in the distance, their day felt warm, personal, and full of heart.
Laurel Ridge Barn is truly a photographer’s dream — a bright, white-washed modern barn with 45-foot ceilings, huge windows, and rolling hills behind the venue. Although it feels like a peaceful escape “outside the city,” it’s only about 10 minutes from downtown Sioux Falls, making it an easy location for guests to reach.
Jianna and Matthew booked Hitch Studio’s 1 Carat Package, which means we handled all décor setup before the ceremony and returned at the end of the night for teardown. With this package, you get to use EVERYTHING in our table décor collection for free to style your tables! We fully design your reception using inspiration from you and your vision board — bringing all the décor, setting it up beautifully, and taking it all down afterward so you can simply enjoy your day with zero stress.
The Ceremony: Garden-Inspired & Full of Meaning
The couple envisioned a ceremony bursting with color and natural beauty. The outdoor patio at Laurel Ridge was the perfect spot — one of the venue’s two dedicated patio ceremony locations. Surrounded by baskets of bright flowers and a whimsical welcome sign, the space felt like a vibrant garden.
One of the most memorable moments was their unity ceremony. Matt, who works in the concrete industry, created a personalized mold featuring their last name. During the ceremony, the couple poured concrete into it — a wonderfully symbolic way to mark the foundation of their marriage.
And the sweetest entrance? Their flower girl arriving in Hitch Studio’s white wagon! Always a crowd favorite.
The Reception: Wildflowers, Candlelight & Dusty Blue Details
Inside the barn, the dusty blue napkins and runners set the tone for a colorful, romantic reception. Hitch Studio designed the centerpiece florals (included in most décor packages!) to coordinate with the wildflower arrangements created by The Flower Mill. With candlelight glowing across the tables, the space felt soft, cozy, and inviting.
Two fresh floral arches behind the head table created a stunning focal point, while our elevated floral arrangements on acrylic stands added height that worked beautifully with Laurel Ridge’s tall ceilings.
Another standout detail: the handcrafted arched seating-chart shelves built by family members. Hitch Studio styled the shelves with bud vases filled with florals, making them both functional and beautiful.
Handcrafted Touches from the Heart
Jianna and Matthew’s families poured so much love into their wedding day. Matt built a wooden bench for guests to sign — a meaningful keepsake the couple will cherish in their home. A hand-embroidered trunk served as the card box, adding another personal touch.
From start to finish, this celebration was filled with laughter, heartfelt moments, and gorgeous views! And once the dance floor opened, Adam from Sieff Style kept it full until the very last song.
We loved every moment of this colorful, joyful day!
Thank You to the Amazing Vendor Team!
Wedding Planner: Hitch Studio
Venue: Laurel Ridge Barn, Sioux Falls
Officiant: Adam from Sieff Style
Florist: The Flower Mill
DJ: Sieff Style
Catering / Cake / Desserts: Chef Dominique / Insomnia Cookies
Photographer: Erica Lynn Photography
Videography: Ella Krause
Hair & Makeup: Amanda Price + Chelsea Amundson
Linens: Hitch Rentals / Ideal Tent & Events Rentals
