Sometimes I sit back and think to myself that I have the coolest job in the word. Ok, not everyday. There are lots of days I want to pull my hair out. And then there are the 110 degree days outside carrying 30 pounds of equipment for 5 hours that make me second guess not only my geographical location in this world, but my entire career choice. But whenever I start to get discouraged for one reason or another, an opportunity like this comes along and warms me to the core.

Vanessa and Mark were married on October 30, 2013. For the second time. On the same date. In the same city. In the same church. With the same pastor. Smiling yet? It’s one of those “love-isn’t-perfect-but-overcomes-all-obstacles” kind of stories that brings me back to what’s important in life. I love pretty shoes and shiny rings as much as anyone, but without feeling, without emotions like love, our memories and things are meaningless. The photos I take that have genuine emotion at the core, those will always be my favorites. They may not be perfect pretty portraits, but life isn’t perfect, it is real. I think that Vanessa and Mark would agree.

These two lived in Tampa at the time, but came back to St. Louis and stayed at the Cheshire hotel for for their elopement.

Ok, I know I just went off on a tangent about how “things” have no real value besides the meaning we give them, but they sure are pretty. ;)

My good friends at Sweet Tea Media were there to capture the story of the day.  Amy is in the background interviewing Vanessa.  I wasn’t allowed to make any shutter click noises while she was taping.  But in between I got a few good shots of Mark laughing at some of the stories Vanessa was sharing with us.

Vanessa between interview clips.

Interviews over – time to get dressed!

Grrrrrr. ;)

And they’re off!

Mark surprised Vanessa at the church…

…by flying in her best friend.

They walked down the aisle together.

And read very special vows they wrote for each other.

Tears and smiles.  Lot’s of both in this small group.

Officially married again!

And a few quick playful photos in the park.

These photos make me smile back at my computer screen.  I love what I do.

FIGHT!

Congratulations you two!  Thank you for sharing your unique and beautiful story with us!  With love, Liz

To see Vanessa and Mark’s beautiful story through the eyes of Sweet Tea Media, see below!

L Photographie St. Louis Wedding Photographers