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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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!

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 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 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.

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!

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!

When I first asked Emily about the overall style they were planning for their wedding, she said “winery meets bookstore”, and that unique answer had me SO excited to witness this gorgeous Nobelois Winery wedding. The rolling vineyard view, books stacked into centerpieces, and even the tiniest details nodding to their literary favorites—Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings—all brought that vision to life.

Bright botanical wedding inspiration complete with blooming branches framing indoor settings, a botanical tablescape set with vintage glassware, a lounge area with unique desserts, vintage couches for ceremony seating, a floral lapel and basket bouquet, actual adorable lambs, and more!!

From the tulle wings moving through the wheat field, the perfectly loose and wild bouquet (complete with toffee roses!), the floral fedora for a whimsical touch, and even the threat of rain disappearing to give us the most stunning evening on the farm—every single aspect came together beautifully.

Natalie and Alex’s 2020 wedding experience was filled with several firsts for all of us. They were the first of my couples to move forward with two wedding dates. It was the first time I've ever arrived to shoot a wedding with the couple’s wedding photos already hanging on the wall. ha! And, the first time I’ve ever had a groom casually pop into the bridal suite for the sweetest, unplanned moment.

Something about Shelby and Kyle makes it SO easy to be their third wheel. We just immediately connected, and I’ve loved every minute spent with them! They had a fall wedding at Silver Oaks Chateau, and I’m still drooling over the details.

We spent their engagement session walking Main Street St. Charles and laughing over wine—because if you know them, you know there’s wine.