I am always flattered when a couple chooses us to capture their wedding day. The wholehearted trust and leap of faith is not lost on me. But somehow it is even MORE flattering (and humbling) when we get to work for “one of our own”, and by that I mean fellow industry friends. Erin’s mom is the incredibly talented Francie Valenta, owner of Encore Baking Company in South City. If you haven’t had a chance to see or sample any of her creations yet, do it now! Life is short. ;) At the very least you are going to get a glimpse of an incredible cake a little ways down in this post. And since writing about it making me crave a piece, we should move on and dig right in! Side note, how is it possible that everyone in this family is slim and fit with yummy baked goods around ALL OF THE TIME?! Serious conundrum.

Erin and the girls got ready together in a cute South City bungalow. Of course, I wondered around looking for the best light…which I found in the bathroom. ;) It was fabulous in there!

And then I came across this awesome little piece of natural decor just begging to be used for jewelry photos. I’m kinda loving this ring shot!


I took over the room the men of the house (1 human and 1 canine) were banished to for a quick photo of Erin’s gorgeous gown. Thanks for letting me borrow your space!


Almost ready…loving this hair!






Perfection Erin!

You two…love this moment. Francie you looked amazing too! More sister less mother of the bride.

Finishing touches…

And we’re off! This was August and the limo had a wee little air conditioning problem. It may have been hotter IN the limo than outside of it, but the girls kept their smiles on! You would never know in the photos!

Meanwhile across town, Meredith was hanging with Robert and the guys at the Marriott Grand. I’m still trying to get used to the sound of that…it was just recently renamed after being the Renaissance Grand for at least 10 years!

You gonna smell that moonshine or drink it? ;)

Bowties and smiles.


Thanks for the perfect little smile pose Robert!



Off we go to St. John the Apostle in downtown St. Louis!

I’m always jealous of these moments that Meredith gets to capture behind the doors. One of these days I’m going to make you switch spots with me Mer!







Special blessing with the parents…



Woo hoo!

The Central Library downtown is seriously one of St. Louis’ architectural gems. Still so happy they invested in its restoration…makes for amazing wedding party photos!



I am a big fan of the natural, muted blush and champagne, but I must say it was really fun to have some serious color! These poppy dresses are a beautiful shade!

And these bouquets…perfect mix of fun summery tones. I would expect nothing less from the amazing Tina Barrera!












And then one more quick stop in the park on the way to the reception…





I can think of no better way to start the reception photos…I give you…THE CAKE. (Can you say the cake takes the cake?!)



Everyone got one of Francie’s famous gingerbread men (in this case dressed as brides and grooms).

And a table of a thousand cookies! I may have snuck a couple while shooting. They were fabulous. Don’t judge me. I can feel you judging me. Wait that’s my own little internal guilt troll! Darn little guy.



I know I say it every time, but I love shooting toasts. Especially when they are really good ones!













And everyone was rockin’ it out to Erin’s brother’s band Proud Rooster as Mer and I headed out for the night!

Oh you guys, it was such a beautiful day! Thank you so much for having us! Big squeeze! Love, Liz + Mer

VENDOR LOVE

Ceremony venue: St. John the Apostle & Evangelist

Reception venue: Kemoll’s

Florist: The Special Event Florist Tina Barrera

Cake: Encore Baking

Paper goods: Vellum

Hair: Heritage Salon and Spa

Makeup: Makeup by Elin

Gown: Simply Elegant Bridal

Bridesmaid dresses: Bill Levkoff

Tuxedos: Vera Wang

Band: Proud Rooster

L Photographie St. Louis Wedding Photographers