The first wedding of my 2025 season couldn’t have been a better way to kick things off! Mary and Denis’ January wedding was a day filled with joy, love, and a dash of winter magic. But, of course, it wouldn’t be a true winter wedding without a little bit of a snowstorm drama! Weather apps predicted a massive winter storm with icy roads and heavy snowfall for that night. Luckily, all the portraits were documented before the winter storm rolled in!
We started the day at the stunning Union Station Hotel in St. Louis, where Mary and her bridesmaids were in full pre-wedding prep mode. The excitement in the air was contagious as the girls had their hair and makeup styled, and Mary was surrounded by her closest friends, making her feel more beautiful by the minute. While they were busy perfecting their looks, I got to capture the lovely details, Mary’s wedding shoes, her sparkling jewelry, and her beautiful wedding gown.
After snapping a few photos, I headed upstairs to catch up with Denis. He was looking sharp, thanks to the help of his dad and best man. The guys were all smiles as they got ready for the big moment. Back in Mary’s room, the girls were finishing their final touches, and we took a moment to capture some adorable photos of them all in matching pajamas. Then, it was time for Mary to slip into her gown. Her mom helped her finish the look with a beautiful bracelet, a colorful necklace, and, of course, the veil. The moment Mary saw herself in the mirror was pure magic!
Before the ceremony, Mary shared a first look with her stepdad upstairs in the hotel suite. Then, it was time for the highly anticipated first look with Denis in the Grand Hall. Denis stood waiting, a huge smile on his face. As Mary called his name, he turned around, his face lighting up the room as he saw his stunning bride for the first time.
Despite the winter temperatures keeping everything very cold, we braved the elements for some stunning bride and groom portraits. The Union Station Hotel made the perfect backdrop for their photos, and we even ventured out onto the street to grab a few shots with the iconic St. Louis Arch in the distance. The temperatures were freezing, but Mary and Denis didn’t let that stop them from looking absolutely radiant.
Next, we piled onto the party bus and headed to Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church for the ceremony. It was a beautiful, traditional Catholic mass, and as Mary and Denis exchanged vows, they looked happy as every. They sealed their vows with a kiss, and the couple joyfully walked back down the aisle hand-in-hand, ready to begin their married life together.
After the ceremony, we ventured to Tower Grove Park for some bridal party photos and to recreate a portrait Mary had always envisioned—a picture of her mom and step dad from their own wedding day. The temperatures had continued to drop, but we powered through, trying to capture the perfect shot while keeping the bridal party as warm as possible. Shout out to the bridesmaids who were absolute troopers in that cold!
Mary and Denis didn’t mind the chill one bit. They were so cute together, laughing and keeping each other warm as we snapped away. It’s moments like these that make the cold totally worth it! After warming up a little, we made our way to the St. Louis Public Library, where we captured some of my favorite portraits of the day. Mary and Denis’ chemistry was effortless, and it made for some truly breathtaking photos. We finished the portraits at Kiener Plaza, where the Christmas lights were still twinkling. The St. Louis Arch served as a stunning backdrop as we wrapped up a beautiful day of outdoor portraits.
When we returned to the Union Station Hotel, the Grand Hall was transformed into a magical reception space. The room was jaw-droppingly gorgeous, thanks to the hard work of their coordinator, Renee, and the hotel staff who brought Mary and Denis’ vision to life. The space was perfect for a night of celebration, and the guests were eager to congratulate the newlyweds.
After cocktail hour, the bridal party was announced, and Mary and Denis shared a sweet moment on the balcony, waving to their guests. When they entered the Grand Hall, everyone rose to their feet and cheered. It was a moment of pure joy! The evening flowed effortlessly from ther, cake cutting, heartfelt speeches from family and friends, and a delicious plated dinner. Mary and Denis made sure to spend time with everyone, mingling and making sure every guest felt the love.
The night really kicked off when the live band took the stage and the dance floor was filled with energy. Everyone was dancing the night away, but we stole Mary and Denis for a few more portraits in the beautifully lit ballroom. The floor lights gave the space a soft, romantic glow, making for a perfect setting to show off their choreography from their first dance.
And of course, we had to wrap up the evening with one last fun shot—Mary and Denis enjoying their late-night snack from the toasted ravioli bar.
Mary and Denis, thank you so much for allowing me and my team to be a part of your beautiful wedding day. From start to finish, it was an unforgettable day, and we had the best time documenting your love story. I have no doubt your future together will be filled with even more love, joy, and incredible moments. Congratulations again, Mr. and Mrs. O’Grady! Wishing you both a lifetime of happiness.
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