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There aren’t enough words to fully explain how much I love shooting weddings.

I am incredibly selective about which ones I shoot. And I’m thorough in the planning process. This includes a dinner a week or so before the big day to go over everything. Alex & I took care of that the Monday before the big day.

Jason Squared and I arrived in Hannibal on Thursday night so I could get settled in. My myriad of battery chargers were set up, and I cleaned my gear. I learned quickly I would find Mark Twain…aka Samuel Clemens EVERYWHERE.

Friday morning we headed to the Rialto to check out the space. I knew I wouldn’t get to see it before the ceremony, so this was necessary. A girl’s got to have a plan. Again. I'm thorough.

The space was being decorated for another event, but I got what I needed. All my favorite things would be doable. 

After I went mural chasing, we drove to Brandon’s chosen park, I made a plan for the big day and a timeline. I knew if we were to get sunset shots, I would have to stick to the plan. I needed the wedding party to be on board.

Then came the rehearsal at Central Park. The fall leaves were gorgeous, and the bandstand created the perfect backdrop. 

The wedding party learned I didn’t play, and realized why I was brought in from Saint Louis. 

Then it was time for dinner. We ate. We drank. The Mother of the Bride gave the best speech describing Alex and Brandon’s love. 

Their love is a sweet one that started during the Pandemic. Alex thought she’d give Facebook Dating a try, and only messaged Brandon. Brandon told her, at that moment, he was listening to what would be their recessional song "Renegade" by Styxx....which she had referenced in her profile. Listening to this story on the wedding day, I knew it was just magical enough to be true. Brandon couldn’t make that up. And he sure wouldn’t lie about it.

He proposed on a Bingham family trip to Ireland. The wedding reflected that trip: a ring-warming ceremony. A guardian of those rings, complete with a Celtic sword and dagger. The wedding was so "them."

To add another touch of them, there was a ring bear. Roar.

I sure fell in love with the bridesmaids.  They understood their role.

To be frank, at times, the groomsmen drove me nuts. But they wormed warmed their way into my heart by the end.  

Alex has two sets of parents, and both of those guys at the first look. Then the moms. Y’all.  C'mon!

Watching Rob, Alex’s Dad, officiate the ceremony, warmed my heart to no end. He loves that girl.

And Brandon sure does, too. This is the moment I lost it.

After the “I do’s” we made our way to Riverview Park. A spot special to Brandon, and it provided an absolutely BEAUTIFUL view of the river.

The wedding party played along nicely as I did my thing making sure to capture the magic that was the day.

Then we partied. Boy, did we party. Brandon & Alex hadn’t practiced the first dance at all which would be to “Satellite” by Guster.

Rob & Alex boogied to “Sweet Child of Mine.”

Brandon & his gorgeous Mama Veronica swayed to “Mama Said.” 

The cousins opened the dance floor with the Cupid Shuffle.

And the dance floor was hot for the rest of the night.

Alex’s Mama is one of my dear, dear friends. One of my besties. So, I have had a front seat to this love story from the beginning.

I remember when they found each other. Everyone knew Brandon was it. I would hear stories and say, “That’s not boyfriend stuff, that’s a future husband move.” I feel like we have talked about this wedding forever.

And here we are. They are married. The day was absolutely spectacular.

So many sweet memories. Then some memories that will make for great stories. Who knew it would take my going to a Hannibal wedding to witness a homeless man crashing a reception? And, to top it off, the Best Man dropped his pants and got down next to him.

Just another Saturday in the life of a wedding photographer.

Congratulations to one of my favorite couples.

Getting to capture this day was an honor. I laughed. I cried. I danced. I drank far more tequila than I’m used to these days. And I ended the night forever grateful for Aunt Charlene.

I’m incredibly thrilled for you two. Remember a good debate makes things fun. But, sometimes you do have to just go to bed after an argument. You can be right or you can be happy. Keep things sweet and respectful, as you already do.

Love you both. Big. 

There is a lot I could say about why I’m friends with this girl, but I’ll save that for another day.  We both love shopping on the interwebs, and locally.  Back during the pandemic, my friend downloaded this dating app called Hinge.  Of all the things she has found on the internet, this soon-to-be preacher boy named Isaiah is her favorite.

Over cold sandwiches in Lafayette Square Park on a bench; their love story began while attempting to social distance. 

Maddie is incredibly decisive, so she knew he was “the one” right away.  I remember the first time I met him, I was told to be nice.   No grilling. 

For a while, I called him every Biblical name, but Isaiah, and he laughed every time.  The day I met him, I knew we were stuck with him.  And I was so grateful.  Nobody loves our girl like this guy.  And, he immediately loved my boy.

Fast forward to a chilly St. Louis day in March, Isaiah proposed.  It was perfectly planned, overlooking the park bench that started it all.  Plus, so many of the family members that I would celebrate with this weekend, too.  Including two college besties and should have been Miss America who would be bridesmaids. 

Then came THE weekend.  When I arrived to the rehearsal at Graham Chapel on Washington University’s campus, I found this couple I adore in coordinating Hanboks. 

We were given the one Jase would wear as the ring bearer for the ceremony.  If you’ve been a follower for a while, you know I’m a sucker for teal and purple.  You might be thinking, of course, she and Maddie are friends. 

After a few walk-throughs and a few pep talks from your favorite red-haired photographer....

....we headed off to Maggiano’s.  

Ms. Paula was right. The zucchini was worth thinking about all day.

Food was enjoyed.  Gifts were exchanged... including a special lambie and pair of dinosaurs.

Thanks were given to the families and the wedding party.

Then it was time to rest for the BIIIIIG DAY!

 As the bride didn’t want a late night, the day started early.  Homewood Suites was the home base for the bridal party. 

The girls were loud.  They were excited.  And they were beautiful. 

Especially Maddie.  Seeing her dress made me sob.  Seeing her IN that dress took my breath away.

I will still never get over Maddie saying, “Those lashes.  We decided on the vavoom.  They were nice, but a little more Rhianna.”

After hair and makeup…and lashes… were nailed, it was time for a first look with the bridesmaids.  Maddie took their breath away, too.

Then it was Emerson’s turn.  AKA Maddie’s Daddy.  This was one of my top moments for the day.  If you know Maddie, you know she ADORES her Daddy.  If you know Emerson, there is no one he loves more than his girls.

Then we all scurried off to Graham Chapel.  Ms. Paula got her turn to see her beautiful daughter, and get a veil on that bride. 

I met up with the groom and the fellas. 

I thought I was going to have bleed again for a wedding, but thanks to the Wedding Krugh, the boutonnieres had magnets!  Seriously…put magnets on your boutonnieres!

Questions were answered.  Things got sorted.  A bride asked the time every 3-5 minutes because she was ready to go.  A precious ring bearer and a totally gorgeous flower girl played hard.

Is he not the cutest ringbearer ever?  No?  Just me?  Shooting this wedding, and rangling my own kid was a job in itself.  Thank God for Jason.  I digress.

I prayed over each of my friends then we got the show on the road

Maddie’s childhood pastor married them and helped create the most sassy....

Ahem..perfect ceremony.  Yes, I cried.

Then we partied.  We danced.  We toasted. We had the most delicious cake.  We danced.  Anniversaries were celebrated.  Advice given.  This couple was celebrated fiercely.

I am grateful for the vendors I worked with this weekend.  We literally became a magical team having never met.   Everyone stayed in their lane and accomplished our #1 goal:  to create a night of a lifetime for our couple.  Mission accomplished.

DJ:  Chris Abell

Coordination/Flowers:  The Wedding Krugh

Wedding Venue: Benjamin Brown Graham Chapel

Reception Venue: The Majorette

Saturday I got to witness the makings of a fairy tale.

I found my way to Gateway Convention Center in Collinsville, IL May. 20, 2023. I accidentally found myself in the middle of a dance competition full of hairspray and glitter. Thankfully the signs directed me to where I was meant to be.

There I met a precious bride with her own sparkle who had just been asked by a tiny dancer if she was a real princess. Yes. The answer is yes.

As we started to head inside, Justin, her prince, came riding up in a chariot disguised as a pickup.

For the record…he did not see the bride. You hear me?

You could feel the anxiety and anticipation just standing next to Toni. Once the first look happened - all that melted away.

They are purely adorable.

You take a prince and princess, and you add in the cutest chickadees to wear flower girl dresses.

Add in some ring security.

A wedding party that is more family than friends.

Then you get this party started, and get Toni and Justin down that aisle.

This wedding was pure sweetness.

Between the vows.

The dances with the Mamas.

A dance with a Dad that was just their style.

Every detail Toni planned showed a love that will only continue to grow.

It was an honor to photograph this wedding. I take great pride in being able to serve the heroes of our world who serve us. Toni is a rockstar nurse. Justin keeps us safe as a firefighter. This makes Toni a double hero, now as a firefighter's wife.

Their reception was so full of fun.

There was so much love in this room.

Toni and Justin, I just love how y'all love each other. Keep dancing.

Dipping.

It was an honor to capture your day. Thank you for trusting me with your love story.

There are times I meet with clients, and I know they’ll be special.  Know they’re going to be stuck with me forever.

These are the clients that are just fun.  During their consult, Keith told me about his custom-built chopper.  Two of his groomsmen had them, too.  A chopper is a fabulous motorcycle, for those who don’t know.

I knew they had to hire me.  Thankfully they did.

So, on May 6th, 2023 I found myself at Lily’s sister Ashley’s house.  Lily was getting her makeup done by the brilliant Amanda Holt.  If you’re getting makeup done, you should call her. 

I immediately felt like one of the girls.  One was dealing with her hubby being a tool.  Others were getting ready.  The mother of the groom was gushing over her daughter-to-be.  And the one she already had.

All of the girls were to wear cowboy boots.  Bride, too. 

But, she decided a super glam pair would work better with her dress.  Her stunningly brilliant dress.  It fit her perfectly.

Seriously....look at that dress.

After the girls were ready to go, I made my way to Andre’s on Telegraph. 

The guys were drinking Busch and smoking cancer sticks.  You may call them cigarettes.  They were ready to get the party going.  Custom boutonnieres with bullets were made by the groom and friends the night before.  They were perfection.

Then the bride circled the parking lot, so we got the groom hidden.  By the dumpster was the best Andre’s had to offer by the back ballroom.

Lily was blessed with fabulous godparents who love her dearly.  And a first look with Aunt & Uncle KK was in order. 

Then it was time to get everyone down the aisle.

This was the shortest ceremony I have ever witnessed.  And I have done courthouse weddings.  By the time Lily's new bonus son Dalton figured out his fly was down, the ceremony was over shortly after.  While the ceremony was short it was full of laughter and love.  Just like Keith and Lily. 

And it ended with a…boy howdy did it end with a kiss. 

We made our way to Cliff Cave Park.  I yelled at the wind.  Kept having to scream at the sun to get behind the clouds.  Got annoyed with folks who thought it was fine to walk behind our photos.  Don’t be that person.  Seriously.  Do better.

My day was made when we got this photo.

Just when the locals wedding guests were about to lose it, we found our way back to Andre’s.  After dinner we got the party started.

The speeches were precious. 

A sister who adores her baby sister. 

A best man who was more than just a friend, he’s family.

A yummy cake was cut. 

A speed round of photos taken with guests. And the party really got started.

We danced.  Boy, did we dance.

Lily and Keith…. I love how you love each other.  I’m grateful to capture your love story.  More so, I’m grateful to have two new friends.  You have an amazing tribe.  Keep loving each other and that sweet boy.  Congratulations!

What a wild, weird year it has been for this wedding photographer.  Thankfully, with the anticipation of my assistant being born in January, I hadn’t booked any weddings for the spring or summer.  I can’t imagine what you all have been through rescheduling.  

Out of nowhere, a precious couple was sent my way.  October 18th was scheduled on the calendar, and we were left to pray the virus kept things together enough for it go off without a hitch.

October 18th found us soaked.  If you’re around me during the week with big shoots coming, you know I regularly pray while looking at the Weather Channel app.  Prayers didn’t touch this weather.  It was cold.  And it was rainy.  But, the day was still BEAUTIFUL.

When I pulled up to the Renaissance Wine Garden, I found a groom so cool, calm, and collected.  Makes sense, because when Kenneth and Becky are together they bring peace to one another.  He was styling in a fabulous hat.

He gave me directions back to the cabin I’d find Becky and her girls.  I entered into a room of high energy, no nonsense ladies.  And I was down for it!!!  I knew I was in the right place.

Becky thought of every detail.  Kenneth’s late mother’s choir robe was crafted into a heart that was sewn onto her dress.  That was the first lump in my throat for the day.  How precious is this?!?!?

Many members of Becky’s family are out of town, including her mother.  A failed attempt at Facetime turned into a phone call that broke my heart.  So much love was sent through a few minutes until the bride knew she’d hit her point where the tears would fall.  

Shortly after her beautiful sons came to see their Mom.  And the cutest flower girl and ring bearer ever.  

Then came my third throat lump…..the first look.  Becky was filled with questions for me about the rain.  I tried to ease her worries with each one.  Rain is good luck, after all.  And we had umbrellas.  

When Kenneth turned to see Becky, I could feel her just exhale from the top of her head to the bottom of her feet.  They are just so precious.  I love how they love each other.

Speaking of feet, we learned quickly that her beautiful weddings shoes weren’t going to cut it with the weather.  Comfort and ease were chosen instead with her boots.  And I think they were fantastic.

Fast forward to the ceremony.  I am a sucker. I cry at every wedding I shoot at some point.  Even though I hadn’t met the couple in person (THANK YOU, ZOOOOOM!), I sobbed.  Couldn’t help it. 

It was a ceremony with a groom who couldn’t take his eyes off his beautiful bride as she came down the aisle.

Filled with vows from a phone…and a piece of paper.  The groom is “old school,” after all.  

It had a groomsman with jokes.  

And there was this whole tribe.  Their St. Louis family, just enveloped them in love, support, and all that is good.  

Not to mention the bride’s son, who just touched this mama heart. 

The sky decided it would open up during the reception.  Thank goodness for a tent, and a flexible DJ.  

First dance was had.  A mother son dance, too.  And a group of girlfriends who were truly Dancing Queens.  

During the reception, I always feel like couple stalker.  I just follow them around from a distance.  But, at this venue, because of the rain, there was no ‘from a distance.’ 

I am sucker for details.  And, let me say it again, Becky didn’t miss a single detail.  They are a house divided.  In case you didn’t know, the bride’s Chiefs won the Super Bowl.  But, she let some Steelers details into the mix.  

If you had a sweet tooth it was covered.

The cupcakes were magic.  Especially the Lemon that I’m devouring as I write this.

One I hadn’t seen before:  Jenga guest book.  Genius.  And so precious.

Takeaways and favorite moments from this day.

• Those aren’t the bride’s real boobs.  (She told myself or someone in my presence 7 times).

• I laughed too hard when the groom was told to use his teeth on the garter, and he looked to me for clarification.

• Sometimes a little rain must fall…. BUT it sure makes the colors pop in your wedding portraits.

• Random dance parties can happen anywhere.

Ken and Becky….I love how you all love each other.  Keep dancing.  Keep laughing.  May you always bring one another peace.

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