
Welcome to the CLP Blog
A Floral Artist’s Touch: An Inside Look at Sugarberry Blooms
Meet Sugarberry Blooms, a Missouri-based wedding florist specializing in locally sourced, sustainable floral design. Discover how I bring wedding visions to life with fresh, unique blooms.
How to Plan a Stress-Free Wedding Day Timeline with Your Photographer: What to Prioritze
As a wedding photographer in St. Louis, MO, one of the most common concerns I hear from couples is about timing—how do we fit everything in without feeling rushed? While your planner will guide the overall schedule, I work closely with my couples to ensure we have the right amount of time to capture every important moment. Here’s how we’ll structure your wedding day timeline to keep things running smoothly.
The Pros and Cons of First Look vs. Traditional Aisle Reveal Photos
One of the biggest decisions couples face when planning their wedding day timeline is whether to do a first look or wait for the traditional aisle reveal moment. There’s no right or wrong answer—it’s all about what feels best for you. With over 10 years of experience as a wedding photographer, I’ve captured both, and I’m here to help you decide by breaking down the pros and cons of each.
How to Handle Rain on Your Wedding Day and Still Get Gorgeous Photos
Rain on your wedding day? No problem! With the right preparation, you can still get stunning wedding photos in the rain. Discover expert tips for making the most of a rainy wedding day and capturing beautiful, romantic images.
The Best Engagement Photo Locations in St. Louis for Luxury Couples
Capture the magic of your love story with a stunning engagement session at the best engagement photo locations in St. Louis. From iconic cityscapes to lush gardens and elegant architecture, find the perfect backdrop for your dream engagement photos.
The Best Wedding Photo Locations in St. Louis for Luxury Brides
Discover the best wedding photo locations in St. Louis for timeless, luxury wedding photography. From grand architecture to scenic park landscapes, these stunning backdrops create the perfect setting for your wedding portraits. Find the perfect spot for your dream wedding photos.
Benefits of a Destination Wedding Venue in Missouri
There’s something about pulling into the drive at Emerson Fields that makes you feel like you’re coming home. It might have something to do with Amelia’s warm smile welcoming you, or it might be that the estate itself feels cozy, private, and open to endless wedding possibilities. Either way, that feeling is just the beginning.
Tips for Elevating Your Getting Ready Photos | St. Louis Wedding Photographer
Getting ready on your wedding day is an experience like no other—a whirlwind of excitement, anticipation, and the surreal feeling of disbelief that the day is actually here. And, if capturing those feelings are high on your list of priorities, there are a few things that you can look for to truly elevate your getting ready photos.
Romantic Summer Wedding at Sunflower Hill Farm | Missouri Wedding Photographer
Kelsey and Nick's romantic, summer wedding at Sunflower Hill Farm—a venue that combines an elevated, classic aesthetic with a natural, rural feel—was a memorable celebration from start to finish.
How to Approach Detail Photos of Reception Tables | St. Louis Wedding Photographer
It’s been helpful for me to develop a process that allows me to stay on track in a time crunch, while shifting my angle and focus to showcase each element in a way that not only resonates with the couple's vision, but also highlights the work of each vendor partner involved.
Vibrant Summer Wedding at Emerson Fields Venue | Missouri Wedding Photographer
The combination of the vibrant summer details with the genuine emotion that was pouring from every minute, made Paige and Griffin's summer wedding at Emerson Fields one that we won't soon forget. This thoughtful pair envisioned a wedding centered around what they truly love and value--each-other, their families, and their faith. And, of course, the bride's love of flowers.
Indoor Lifestyle Studio + Outdoor Winter Scenery Engagement Session | St. Louis Engagement Photographer
A winter engagement session in St. Louis, Missouri with winter scenery in Forest Park, and a cozy “at-home” feel, at an indoor lifestyle studio. This session features snowy Missouri scenery, cocktail making, card playing, and simple intimate moments.
Audrey + Gustavo's Summer Wedding at Forest Park Golf Course | St. Louis Wedding Photographer
Forest Park Golf Course provided a stunning backdrop for Audrey and Gustavo's beautiful summer wedding. Its lush greenery and abundant natural light added to the overall atmosphere of the event. The day was filled with classic details, a fun wedding party, and had a strong focus on family.
Kayla + Patrick's Spring Wedding at Silver Oaks Chateau | Chelsea Liefer Photography
Kayla and Patrick's Spring wedding at Silver Oaks Chateau was food-focused and family-centered. Their bold, spring color palette brought together bright pinks, sage green, and pops orange that made each detail stand out in an already stunning setting.
Kelsey + Nick's Greenhouse Garden Engagement Session | Missouri Wedding Photographer
I wanted to give Kelsey and Nick the gardening aesthetic in a way that felt both natural and romantic. Frisella Nursery in Defiance, MO was the perfect spot for multiple reasons!
Seven Forest Park Engagement Sessions | St. Louis Wedding Photographer
If you're looking for a St. Louis engagement session location, Forest Park is definitely a favorite. The variety that comes from the classic architecture and natural landscape in this single location keeps it at the top of my list when making photography recommendations to couples.
Kayla + Kyle's Wedding at Main Street Abbey in Columbia, IL | Illinois Wedding Photographer
Kayla and Kyle's March wedding at Main Street Abbey in Columbia, IL was such a dream day! The contrast of the black and white details paired with emerald green and pops of gold was such a stunning color palette that was carried through every wedding detail--from the black and white stationery and menswear to the emerald green bridesmaid dresses and ring box. Just wow.
Jennifer + Jawad's Spring Wedding at Four Seasons | St. Louis Wedding Photographer
Jennifer and Jawad’s spring wedding at Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis was undoubtedly one for the books. Each thoughtful detail was wrapped in meaning and celebrated the two of them perfectly. From the biggest details—the venue itself was where Jawad pulled out a little blue box and asked Jen to marry him. So, it was extra special to have that same view of St. Louis setting the scene for their ceremony.
Wedding Day Portrait Tips | Chelsea Liefer Photography
Bride and groom portraits are always one of my favorite parts of the wedding day. It’s a designated time block that my couples get to use to slow down and catch up, and time that I get to use to incorporate my creative direction. The photos that come out of what’s typically a quick thirty minutes are always some of the most loved. So, let’s talk about a few things you can do to truly maximize your time in front of the camera and walk away with amazing photos!
Katie + Zach's Spring Engagement Session in Forest Park | St. Louis Wedding Photographer
Forest Park is such a stunning St. Louis session location in any season. But, on this particular spring day, the bright blooms were truly showing off for Katie and Zach’s engagement photos!