Some weddings just hit different—when every detail feels personal, every moment lands just right, and the whole day moves with this effortless kind of grace. Lanna and Alex’s wedding was all that and more. Held in Indianapolis, with prep and first look at the iconic Hotel Carmichael and a romantic ceremony and reception at Laurel Hall Indianapolis, it was a day full of history, heart, and a whole lotta white silk.

And if these two look familiar, it’s probably because this was the third Rueck sibling wedding I’ve photographed (hi again, Sydney and Wade), plus Lanna’s sister Laura tied the knot a while back and yep—I shot that, too. I’ve had the absolute honor of watching these families grow through senior sessions, prom pics, baseball photos, engagements, and now this—the last Rueck kid to get hitched. By now, their families feel like old friends. I’ve photographed multiple weddings across this group, and it’s always a joy to watch the next chapter unfold. Alex’s mom, Theresa, especially stands out—this was her third and final kiddo getting married, and somehow she managed to balance being an all-in mom and a next-level grandma without breaking a sweat (or a heel). Always showing up with grace and just the right amount of sparkle. Someone pass me a tissue and a retirement card, please.

Getting Ready at Hotel Carmichael

The morning kicked off at Hotel Carmichael in Indianapolis, where Lanna and her sisters took over one of their elegant suites. With eleven siblings in her family, you’d expect chaos—but nope, it was surprisingly chill and calm. They nailed a vibe that was equal parts relaxed and purposeful.

Lanna’s gown was a stunner—a high-neck, backless silk beauty from Amsale that felt timeless but totally her. Her bridesmaids mirrored the vibe in scooped-neck white silk dresses, keeping the crew effortlessly coordinated without being matchy-matchy.

Hair and makeup were handled like pros—shoutout to Kylee Vermillion and her sidekick Sloan (aka “Toe,” the toddler nickname that stuck, and FYI, she dates my brother—family vibes all around) for making sure everyone looked flawless but not overdone. It was the kind of prep where you could breathe and actually enjoy the moment.

Alex kept it classic with a black suit and tie, topped off with his late grandfather’s cufflinks—a subtle but meaningful touch. The energy was calm but electric, like the day was unfolding exactly how it should.

After some quiet moments and plenty of hugs, Lanna and Alex shared their first look right there at the hotel—intimate, raw, and unforgettable. Then it was time to roll to Laurel Hall Indianapolis for the ceremony and the rest of the magic.

Ceremony at Laurel Hall

The outdoor ceremony at Laurel Hall Indianapolis was simple and stunning. Rows of white chairs framed the lawn, and a green-and-white floral arch by Pomp & Bloom stole the show.

The whole thing felt natural and intentional. No fluff. Just two people surrounded by their closest crew—some official family, some chosen—but all deeply invested in the moment.

After the ceremony, they rolled right into family photos with the whole gorgeous group, with some of the most stunning portraits I’ve ever taken.

The Reception: Chill Vibes and Unexpected Hits

The dance floor wasn’t the only star of the night — honestly, everyone was into hanging out on the patio under the string lights, soaking up that perfect Indiana evening on what was one of the most perfect spring nights we’ve had so far. The flaming donuts outside and the caricature artist inside stole the show along with their cake cutting and champagne tower!

Lanna switched into her second dress mid-reception—a tulle-y, form-fitting top with a ruffled skirt and slit—and swapped her white Louboutins for some Versace sneakers, because duh, comfort is queen.

The whole night felt relaxed, beautiful, and perfectly them — just a Thursday evening spent with family, friends, and good vibes.

This wedding was overwhelmingly perfect.

The couple, the venue, the florals, the family—everything was just absolute perfection. I could have spent the entire weekend photographing these venues and STILL not have seen it all. 🤯

Congratulations, Lanna & Alex; you’re officially Mager Image royalty now. 👑

Vendor Team

Venue: Laurel Hall

Getting Ready: Hotel Carmichael

Florals: Pomp & Bloom

DJ & Music: Complete Weddings + Events, City Six Strings

Officiant: Just the Two of Us

Dress: Amsale via Marie Gabriel Couture

Hair & Makeup: Brooke Leman, Kylee Vermillion, and Sloan (“Toe”)

Shoes: Christian Louboutin (ceremony) + Versace (reception)

Invitations: Jerry and Julep

Catering: Ritz Charles

Caricature Artist: Betsy Bleed