BarnesPlace

Wedding Day

Ceremony

Ceremony + Reception

BARNES PLACE IS LOCATED AT: 20932 350th St, Adel, IA 50003

Parking is available on site at the venue

Our Wedding

We met in the fall of 2020 during our freshman year at Kirkwood. Kennedy was playing on the softball team and Jaleque was on the basketball team; a shared campus life and a few chance conversations turned into a quick, close friendship. From classes together and weekend games to late-night talks and new traditions, our bond deepened through the ordinary moments that became ours. Now, as we plan to marry on September 25, 2026, we’re excited to celebrate the journey that started with that first season together.

We stayed close friends for the two years we were both at Kirkwood but didn’t start dating until 2022. The start of our relationship also brought a year of long distance: Jaleque continued his basketball career in Kearney, Nebraska, while I stayed at Kirkwood for an extra year. Though we only saw each other about once a month, those visits were always so special.

We’d finally made it through college and the long distance. We decided to start our life together near Kennedy's hometown. After three years of dating and six years of friendship, Jaleque proposed on a family trip to Tulum, Mexico — and of course I said yes. That brings us to today: we’re excited to tie the knot and spend the rest of our lives together.We can’t wait to celebrate with you!

Our Story

Photos

Allie has been in Kennedy's life since middle school. They met when Kennedy was asked to show allie around her new school...Strangers turned in to lifelong best friends very quickly. Even when thousands of miles separated them during college, they remained inseparable—cheering each other on through every milestone. Allie brings a genuinely caring spirit, always seeing the best in others and able to brighten any rainy day with her kindness and optimism.

Allie

Kennedy lived with Austyn in college and quickly gained the sister she never had. Austyn is sunshine in human form—always ready with a laugh and a lighthearted joke that lifts the room. She’s loyal, spirited, and one of the first people Kennedy confided in about her crush on Jaleque, a moment they still laugh about today. 

Austyn

Emilee and Kennedy met in college and became fast friends—Kennedy knew immediately Emilee was someone special. Emilee approaches life with fierce determination and contagious passion, always chasing her goals with enthusiasm. Above all, she’s Kennedy’s biggest cheerleader: endlessly supportive, up for any adventure, and the life of every party.

Emilee

Jaxon is Kennedy's first friend and younger brother. Over the past four years, Jaxon and Jaleque have built a deep, easy friendship—one full of shared jokes, late-night talks, and genuine support. Jax finally has someone who shares opinions on all the ways Kennedy can be annoying.

Jaxon

Corenz is one of Jaleque’s older brothers and arguably one of the funniest people they know. From playground days through adulthood, Corenz has always been a steady presence—ready with a quick joke, a helpful hand, and unwavering support. His easy humor and protective nature have shaped countless memories for Jaleque, and his warmth and loyalty make him someone the couple cherish. 

Corenz

Sayvion and Jaleque have been friends since childhood. What started as middle school rivalry grew into a lasting bond—by high school they were teammates who pushed each other to be better versions of themselves. Their friendship is built on friendly competition, mutual support, and shared memories that span years; Sayvion’s steady presence and encouragement have been a constant for Jaleque through every chapter.

Sayvion

Madison Cavan

Wedding Party

Q + A

For our out of town family and friends, fly into the Des Moines International Airport. Our hotel block accommodations are listed below. However please feel free to stay wherever you feel comfortable!

We have partnered with the Hampton Inn West Des Moines Lake Drive for hotel guest rooms for our wedding, September 25, 2026! To book a room at the discounted rate, please call the hotel directly at 515-223-4700 and ask for the Dunson Hill Wedding block. You can also book online using the following link: <a href="https://www.hilton.com/en/attend-my-event/dunsonhillwedding9-25-2026/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.hilton.com/en/attend-my-event/dunsonhillwedding9-25-2026/</a>. Book by August 24, 2026 for the discounted rate.

Travel

Thrill rides for all ages plus a water park, arcades, dining options, variety shows &amp; lodging.

Adventureland Park

Blank Park Zoo is a 49-acre zoological park on the south side of Des Moines, Iowa, United States, near historic Fort Des Moines.&nbsp; Kennedy and Jaleque love doing summer dates here!

Blank Park Zoo

The Downtown Farmers’ Market connects urban and rural communities while supporting local entrepreneurs, including farmers, producers, bakers and artists from all across the state of Iowa.&nbsp; The Market was ranked the&nbsp;#8 Must-Visit Farmers' Market in the U.S. by Food &amp; Wine. The Downtown Farmers' Market was named a Top 5 Best Farmers' Market in the United States by The Gateway. The Market was ranked the #4 Best Farmers' Market in the Midwest by inFlow Inventory.

Des Moines' Downtown Farmers’ Market

The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden can be both an entertaining and educational experience for you, your friends, family. The Botanical Garden has an established reputation as a dynamic, innovative, cultural institution that pushes horticultural boundaries. This true downtown urban oasis delivers an engaging green space to explore, and a high-quality guest experience!

Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden

Sprawling entertainment venue with a high-tech driving range &amp; swanky lounge with drinks &amp; games.

Topgolf Des Moines

Things to Do

Registry

WHATEVER YOU FEEL BEST IN! We want you to feel comfortable and able to bust a move!Semi-formal attire is preferred for guests. Ladies:Midi-to-maxi length dressesJumpsuitsDress pants + blousePlease feel free to bring a separate pair of dancing shoes ex: sneakers or flipflops Gentlemen:Tie and jacket not requiredDress shirts, button upsDress pantsTie if you want No jeans, denim, or cargo pants

Kennedy & Jaleque

Kennedy & Jaleque

Photos