#explorestlouis

St. Louis is still a little confused on what season it is.  Some of the leaves are revolting on changing. The weather is warm, with a slight breeze. 

Saturday’s high was supposed to be 65 degrees, but it got up to 78.  I knew my grooms would be wearing snazzy custom suits, and I worried they would be sweating big.

Then I stepped outside and felt that glorious breeze.

I made my way to one of my favorite STL City neighborhoods:  Shaw. 

Upon parallel parking like a champ, I was greeted by Jon.  He looked incredibly handsome in a custom burgundy suit.  Joe followed behind him in his green one.  I gushed a little too much.  

They gave me the dime tour, and I went inside to be greeted by an excited bunch.  Both gents’ families patiently waited as we got organized, and then we were off to the Compton Hill Reservoir.  

We knocked out some family pictures. 

Then the boys lead me up to Jon’s favorite spot, and we let them be extra cute for a bit.

Then we met the sweetest crew of framily.  They blended their love and razzing equally.  And unintentionally coordinated outfits in a beautiful way.

Then it was time to get this party started.  What a way to celebrate a year of marriage.

In true pandemic fashion, Joe and Jon had a St. Louis elopement at the St Louis Wedding Chapel on Broadway.  The original plan was to redo their ceremony, but it ended up being complete perfection for them.  So, a grand Mardis Gras themed party became the plan instead.

And, let me tell you: the good times rolled.

Guests arrived to their backyard to a cocktail hour with passed hors d’oeurvres.  Correction.  Delicious passed hors d’oeuvres.  And of course there were signature cocktails:  Naked & Famous, Coffee Negroni, and a fabulous Autumn Sangria.

So much love and joy filled the fall’s hottest party in South City. When I met with the boys, Jon told me that nobody made the guest list unless they were beating down the door to be there.  They wanted fun.  They wanted framily.  They wanted this night to be nothing but a celebration.

And that is exactly what they got.

In true Mardis Gras fashion, a shrimp and crawfish boil were served alongside hushpuppies, cornbread, and jambalaya.  The spice was just perfection.

Then the dancing.  Y’all.  This crew was such a blast.  No dumb wedding dances here.  Just a bunch of  friends who made sure to get babysitters ready to party with their favorite couple.

This is one I will remember forever. 

Custom suits, Gucci loafers, and Christian Louboutin shoes.  AKA “bloody bottom” shoes, per Joe’s sister. 

My being a walking disco ball.  Or so I was told.

The perfect toast from a bestie.

A precious one from a sister.

Having Joe’s Mama say, “Hey, bestie,” each time I came up to her.

Getting to dance hard.

Phil going in the pool. 

Jon & Joe…thank you for trusting me with this day.  I ADORE how y’all love each other.  The life you both have built…you just deserve it all.  

Joy and love surround you, because that is what you throw like Mardis Gras beads to the world.  Getting to shoot this day (and your “engagement” session) was an honor.  I’m even more thrilled to know I have made new friends.  Much love to you both.  I’m calling y’all for a sushi night after I survive this fall.  Love you both. BIG.