Issuu

SPRING/SUMMER 2026

YOU IN THE LOU… AND YOUR WEDDING GUESTS TOO THE SWEETEST PART OF THE NIGHT

35 FEATURED WEDDINGS

MUSIC THAT MOVES YOU

D ISCOVER WHAT S PEAKS

TO YOU

$6.99 DISPLAY UNTIL JULY 2026

PHOTO CREDIT: RACHEL MYERS PHOTOGRAPHY

TUXEDOS

SUITS

BOW TIES

CUMMERBUNDS

NECKTIES

SHOES

Tailored Gents at Savile Row provides a concierge experience for couples planning the perfect look for their special day. We consider the theme, color palette, and overall attire wish list for the entire wedding weekend. With three distinct garment construction types: Bench Made, Made to Measure, and Ready to Wear, we offer tailored options to suit every preference and style.

TA I LO R E D G E N T S . CO M

8 1 0 1 M A RY L A N D AV E , C L AY TO N , M O 6 3 1 0 5

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314.721.SUIT(7848)

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www.allseasonslinen.com

8312 Olive Blvd I Saint Louis MO. AllSeasonsLinen_STLWB_Jul24.indd STLWB_260100_001_016.indd 1 1

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CATERING • VENUES • ELEVATED EVENTS

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Abby Rose Photography & Shots By Camille

Where your celebration begins.

BUTLERSPANTRY.COM | 314.664.7680

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Photos by Sarah Harvey Photography

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Celebrating over 40 Years in Business Open by appointment only at our location featuring 6000 square foot designer showroom. 314.772.1301

Accommodates all budgets!

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GRAND HALL

G AT SBY RO OM

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W E S T H A LL

One Destination. Endless Possibilities. ✦ Six unique spaces — Rustic • Elegant • Industrial Speakeasy for Cocktail Hour • Stained Glass Hall ✦ 3,000 sq. ft. patio for outdoor ceremonies ✦ Two spacious getting-ready suites ✦ Licensed Bar Service & eight Catering Partners to choose from ✦ Events for 40 – 450 guests — all on 8 beautiful acres

1100 5th St. ✦ Highland, IL ✦ 618.651.6323

Weddings • Receptions • Bridal Shower or Rehearsal Dinner Space Included!

The Olde Wicks Factor y – Where your story comes to life. 1100 Fifth Street, Highland, IL 62249 | www.oldewicksfactory.com | (618) 651-6323

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Some DJs just play Music. We create Magic @highclassdjs

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highclassdjs.com

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celebrate your love in your style

michayla slone Photography

314.441.5562 hello@celebratebycece.com celebratebycece

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WEDDINGS

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· RECEPTIONS · SOIRÉES · LUNCHEONS · GALAS

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CORPORATE EVENTS · BRIDAL & BABY SHOWERS · FORMAL DINNERS

C ELEB R AT E L OV E I N ELE G A N C E . The Ritz-Carlton, St. Louis offers the complete wedding experience. Ideal for intimate social celebrations to lavish receptions for up to 800 guests, our collection of premier venues boast the perfect setting for making memories, promising the most spectacular backdrop for life’s most important moments. Our team of skilled wedding advisors are here to help with the most intricate of details, ensuring your every need will be met with impeccable service and unfailing attention to detail.

1 00 CARON D E LE T P LA Z A ST. LOU IS, MI SSO UR I 6 3 1 05 R I T Z C A R LTO N . C O M / S T. LO U I S

For more information about The Ballroom, The Solarium and The Bijou, please inquire at: (314) 719-1406

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Special Pricing for Remaining 2026 Dates!

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MIDWEST FLOWER MAGIC www.rosesandmint.com

Lauren T Photography

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F R O M T H E E D I TO R

here is so much noise in the world of weddings. So many voices telling you what you should do, what is “in” this year, and what defines the perfect celebration.

But here is the truth: the only voice that

matters is yours. This issue is an invitation to quiet the noise, to pause, to listen, and to discover what truly speaks to you. Sometimes it is a moment, a feeling, or a detail you cannot explain but instantly recognize as your own. A ceremony at sunrise in a place that holds your history. A menu inspired by family gatherings. A cake that tells a story. A gown that makes you feel like the truest version of yourself. A single flower, shape, or hue that sparks something inside you. Our fashion editorial at The Olde Wicks Factory is shaped around that very idea. This historic organ factory, with its contrasting spaces from dark and moody to bright and ethereal, reminds us that there is no single way to celebrate. Each room speaks a different language: intimate, grand, whimsical, and traditional. Each offers a distinct atmosphere, a different emotion, and a unique invitation. Our creative team responded to that invitation with intention. You will see gowns that break from expectation, florals that blur the line between art and arrangement, and design choices that celebrate individuality over imitation. What connects them all is not a trend or a rule. It is authenticity. It is the courage to choose what feels right for you. As you move through these pages, my hope is that you find inspiration not in what is popular but in what resonates. Your wedding does not need to look like anyone else’s. It only needs to feel like the two of you. Here’s to discovering what speaks to the two of you and celebrating it boldly.

Marianne Moore, Editor

CO N N E C T W I TH U S O NLI NE:

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BRIDESTL.COM • SPRING/SUMMER 2026

@stlbride

bridestl.com

CRAFTING bespoke celebrations Delivering Magical Moments we specialize in thoughtfully planned, intentionally designed, and flawlessly executed events..

and just as important.. we're here to throw you one unforgettable party.

Abby Rose Photography

North Arrow Creative

Maggie Adams Photography

“There are not enough stars in the world to give to Hawthorne Creative..” - Alli + Ross, 2024

let’s make some magic & memories!

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ways to connect with us: www.hawthornecreativeco.com | @hawthornecreativeco_ | madison@hawthornecreativeco.com

read more reviews here!

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Photo by Vasva & Co.

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Weddings by AMERISTAR ST. CHARLES

Bri Whitman Photography

Ameristar Casino Resort Spa boasts four ballrooms and over 60,000 sq. ft of usable space for intimate gatherings or opulent receptions up to 1,000. Our RYSE Nightclub, Landmark Atrium and Outdoor Event Lawn can bring a unique setting for your wedding. Look no further than our all-suite hotel and complimentary covered parking. Bespoke wedding packages at a variety of price points and carefully crafted menus by our culinary team will ensure your weekend is memorable for all the right reasons.

ameristarstcharles.com One Ameristar Blvd | St. Charles, MO 63301 | 636.949.7777 Must be age 21 or older to gamble. Exclusions apply. Gambling Problem? Call 1.800.GAMBLER. ©2025 Boyd Gaming Corporation®. All Rights Reserved.

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C O N T E N T S | Spring/Summer 2026

FEATURES

REAL WEDDINGS

174

DISCOVER WHAT SPEAKS TO YOU A celebration that feels like the two of you.

158

MENUS FILLED WITH MEANING

REAL MOMENTS 35 couples, celebrating their way.

216

PARTING SHOT

Flavors, memories, and traditions that shape your meal.

142

THE SWEETEST PART OF THE NIGHT Sweets that are intentional, interactive, and unforgettable.

Gown: SY8189 by Stella York $1899. Veil: Grace + Goddess $599. All available at The Ultimate Bride STL. Linen by Zhuzh Rentals. 22

BRIDESTL.COM • SPRING/SUMMER 2026

Your Dream Wedding Venue Awaits.

 ©Kori Arnold Photography

 ©Brittany Kastney Gentry

Old Hickory Golf Club

 ©Mad Land Photography

 ©Megs Abbott Photography

The Areas Finest Wedding Venue 636. 477.8960 | W WW.O LDH I C KO RYG C . C O M STLWB_Jan25_OldHickory.indd 23 STLWB_260100_017_032.indd 1

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C O N T E N T S | Spring/Summer 2026 TIPS + INSPIRATION 44

THINGS WE LOVE

138

MUSIC THAT MOVES YOU

The inside scoop on what we’re obsessed with now

Crafting a soundtrack that feels true to your story.

PLANNING 164

YOU IN THE LOU… AND YOUR WEDDING GUESTS, TOO!

Landmarks and spaces made to be celebrated in.

150

142

150

WEDDINGS IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD Dream venues just across the river.

RESOURCES 188

RECEPTION SITES

194

THE SAINT LOUIS BRIDE ESSENTIAL GUIDE

Top vendors | services | locations | hours

211

ALL ABOUT REHEARSALS

138 ON THE COVER Poppy $3800. available at Bridal Parlour.

158 24

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CO N N E C T W I TH U S ONLI NE:

facebook.com/stl.bride @stlbride

EXTRAORDINARY is our

@chelsealieferphoto @anaffairtorememberstl

e v o L uage g n a L

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Silver Oaks Chateau Bringing French Elegance to St. Louis since 2015

Emily Roeder Photography

Casey Jaye Photography

Claire Forrest Films

g Emily Roeder Photography

Casey Jaye Photography

1168 Highway 100 Pacific, MO 63069 check our availability:

for pricing and more information:

www.silveroakschateau.com

inquiries@silveroakschateau.com

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Claire Forrest Films

Joy Lynn Photography

Emily Roeder Photography

Joy Lynn Photography

Discover the charm and elegance of Silver Oaks Chateau, a French-inspired wedding venue nestled in the scenic landscapes of Pacific, Missouri. For 10 years, our chateau has provided couples with an idyllic, private setting to celebrate their love. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be drawn into the magic of our grand ballroom, enchanting outdoor spaces, and our cozy Chalet guest house—perfect for turning your wedding day into a memorable weekend getaway. With years of expertise and a passion for perfection, our dedicated team at Silver Oaks Chateau brings unparalleled attention to detail to make your wedding celebration truly unforgettable.

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Proud Supporter of Local St. Louis Charities. Host your next event at the Sheratons and receive one of the following: • COMPLIMENTARY SUITE

• $250 GIFT CERTIFICATE TO WESTPORT SOCIAL • 4 CARDINALS TICKETS

Available for new bookings 6/1/2019 - 8/31/2019 for an event held in the next 18 months. Offer subject to change without notice.

Sheraton Westport Hotel St. Louis 191 & 900 Westport Plaza St. Louis, Missouri 63146 314.878.1500 sheratonwestport.com

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ST. LOUIS AT THE BALLPARK

HappilyEver After take it to the top and see it all

Begins Here

TRUST HILTON ST. LOUIS AT THE BALLPARK planning process. FeelTHE confident that youIMPORTANT can trust Hilton St. Louis at the Ballpark with the most WITH MOST DAY OF YOUR LIFE.

We know that choosing a venue for your wedding is one of the most important aspects of the

TRUST HILTON ST. LOUIS AT THE BALLPARK Hilton offers an excellent contemporary venue for your toast to happily ever after. and will be there to provide full support on the day of your wedding. Celebrate with breathtaking views DAY of the St. Louis WITH THE MOST IMPORTANT OFskyline YOUR LIFE. important day of your life. Our wedding consultant offer guidance through every step of planning

and panoramic vistas at 360 Rooftop Bar at the top of the Hilton.

toast toK happily C E LHilton E B R A Toffers E W I Tan H excellent B R E A T H Tcontemporary A K I N G V I E W Svenue O F T Hfor E Syour T. LO UIS S Y L I N E Aever N D after. WeddingCelebrate consultantswith offerbreathtaking guidance through every and will be there to provide views of step the of St.planning Louis skyline P A N O R A M I C V I S T A S A T T H R E E S I X T Y R O O F T O P B A R A T T H E T O P O F T H E H I LT O N . full support the dayBar of your dream and panoramic vistas at 360 on Rooftop at the topwedding. of the Hilton. Voted as a top ten rooftop bar in the world, at 360 you will see it all, from the expanded Gateway Arch grounds, Ballpark Village, Busch Stadium and Kiener Plaza. Wedding consultants offer guidance through every step of planning and will be there to provide full support on the day of your dream wedding.

One South Broadway

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St. Louis, Missouri

One South Broadway

St. Louis, Missouri

One South Broadway

St. Louis, Missouri

314.421.1776

hiltonstlouis.com

12/4/25 12:1 PM

C O N T R I B U T O R S | Working behind the scenes

1. MICHELLE JAHNS Michelle Jahns Photography

is as much a calming presence as she is a planner.

She is also the founder of Club BB, a beauty

She listens closely, honors each couple’s story, and

brand dedicated to intentional, premium brow

I’m the pink-and-purple–haired photographer

ensures every detail reflects who they are. Her

and beauty services.

behind Michelle Jahns Photography, capturing

work is rooted in empathy, creativity, inclusivity,

weddings, babies, boudoir, and all the moments in

and impeccable organization.

5. THOMAS DEGROOT The Stylist West County

3. SARA WARD Wildflowers STL

At just twenty-three, Thomas DeGroot brings

comfortable, confident, and completely yourself.

Sara Ward’s love of floral design is rooted in

County, where he works alongside his mother, Jill

I guide every pose, fluff dresses, hand out tissues,

a lifelong connection to nature, art, and color.

DeGroot. During the week he focuses on custom

and absolutely bribe toddlers when needed.

Raised in an artistic home, she learned early

color with polished, natural results. On weekends

Think of me as your built-in hype woman with

how beauty can shape a moment—an instinct

he creates long-lasting, photo-ready styles for

a camera and an emergency kit. Since going full

that led her to flowers.

brides and special events.

between. I work throughout St. Louis and happily travel wherever your story leads. My goal is simple: to help you feel

eight years of experience to The Stylist in West

time in 2022, I’ve photographed more than 150

For more than 20 years, she has designed

Thomas is committed to staying current,

weddings plus countless families, seniors, and

lush, garden-inspired arrangements for weddings

regularly attending national hair shows and

new babies. Before photography I worked in

and events, known for movement, texture,

education courses. He blends a strong technical

retail management, which means I’ve handled

and a natural elegance. An avid gardener, she

foundation with a fresh, modern perspective

just about everything—and now I get to tell love

draws inspiration from the seasons and often

and is quickly becoming known for his artistry,

stories for a living. I’m obsessed with color, a

incorporates blooms from her own yard.

professionalism, and client-centered approach.

proud dog mom, and still loyal to my favorite

Sara’s work brings the outside in, weaving

boy bands. I’ll likely cry during your vows and

organic textures and intentional design to

make strange noises when I get the perfect shot.

transform spaces. Her florals do more than

6. TRISTAN SHANNON Kindled Films

Most of all, I’ll make your experience feel joyful,

decorate they set the tone and tell a story.

Kindled Films is led by Tristan Shannon, a fourth-

natural, and fun.

2. AMANDA CHASNOFF Signed Sealed Delivered Events

generation storyteller who grew up surrounded

4. NORY BEEBE Pro Hair + Makeup Artist

by the art of documenting real life. That heritage

Nory Beebe is a St. Louis hair and makeup artist

cinematic, and rooted in genuine moments.

shapes his wedding filmmaking today—authentic,

Amanda Chasnoff is the owner and creative

specializing in luxury bridal beauty. Known for her

Tristan and his team capture unposed

force behind Signed Sealed Delivered Events.

soft-glam, camera-ready style, she creates elevated

laughter, small in-between moments, and

With nearly 20 years in weddings and events, she

looks that feel both modern and timeless.

the spirit of adventure that defines modern

has planned red-carpet galas on the West Coast,

With 14+ years in weddings, fashion, editorial,

couples. Their films feel personal and alive,

co-owned a floral and event design studio, led

and film, Nory brings technical mastery and

blending cinematic quality with the warmth

major public events, and built deep expertise

a couture eye for detail. Her work has been

of a nostalgic home video.

in catering and venue management. Today she

featured in St. Louis Magazine, Design STL, The

specializes in full and partial planning, design,

Scout Guide, and Feast Magazine, and she has

love story with sincerity and care. With Tristan

day-of coordination, and destination weddings.

contributed to commercial projects for NBC,

behind the lens, your film becomes a meaningful

Known for her warm, detail-driven style, Amanda

Panera, and the U.S. Women’s Gymnastics Team.

chapter in the story you are creating together.

BRIDESTL.COM • SPRING/SUMMER 2026

Proudly inclusive, Kindled Films welcomes every

Lisa Meyer Photography

©Lisa Meyer Photography

Ten Acres of Beautiful Places for Photos | Five Different Ceremony Site Locations Bridal Suite and Grooms Quarters 636.317.1222 | 4401 McClay Road, St. Charles, MO 63304 | www.shofsc.com | ruth@shofsc.com

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White Klump Photography

Rachel Myers Photography

White Klump Photography

Rachel Myers Photography

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C O N T R I B U T O R S | Working behind the scenes

THE OLDE WICKS FACTORY: Jennifer Ostrander + Shannon Welz

uncertain about what would come next. Jennifer and Frank Ostrander saw something more than

Today, The Olde Wicks Factory stands as one

Long before its soaring ceilings and glowing

an empty structure. They saw possibility. They

of the region’s most distinctive event venues. It

chandeliers hosted weddings, Olde Wicks Factory

purchased the eighty thousand square foot

is a place where history can be felt in the walls

was a place shaped by craft and intention. More

building with the belief that its story was not

and where celebration feels both grounded and

than a century ago, the Wicks brothers, John,

finished. Their restoration was guided by care and

elevated. Couples are drawn to its architecture,

Louis, and Adolph, built the original pipe organ

respect. They wanted to honor what the building

its authentic sense of place, and the feeling that

factory in Highland, Illinois. It was a space where

had been while creating a place where people

their day becomes part of something larger. Under

artisans carved wood, cast metal, and assembled

could gather and celebrate.

the leadership of Jennifer Ostrander and her

instruments that would eventually fill sanctuaries

The stained glass was restored to its full color

purpose into a place once built for music.

daughter Shannon Welz, the venue is managed

with music. The building carried that legacy

and warmth. The exposed brick remained as a

with the same care and dedication that guided

for generations. Its stained glass windows once

reminder of the building’s industrial past. Updated

its restoration. The building no longer houses the

illuminated workbenches, and its brick walls

chandeliers and thoughtful lighting brought a

workbenches of artisans, yet it remains a space

held the rhythm of a family business that

sense of modern elegance that complemented

shaped by artistry. Now that artistry is found in

became known across the country.

the character already present in the space. Room

the love stories, gatherings, and moments that

by room, the Ostranders brought new life and

echo within its century old walls.

By 2017, the historic factory stood quiet and 32

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BEGIN BEGINYOUR YOUR

Happily After Happily Ever Ever ON ONAAGRAND GRAND NOTE NOTE A history historyas asdeep deepasasyour yourlove. love.Offering Offering A two beautiful, beautiful,historic historicand andbreathtaking breathtaking two venuesfor foryou youtotoconsider, consider,the theMarriott Marriott venues St. Louis LouisGrand Grandisisthe theperfect perfectlocation location St. for your yourspecial specialday. day. for The Crystal CrystalBallroom, Ballroom,located locatedonon The the 20th 20thfloor floorofofthe thehotel, hotel,offers offers the spectacularviews viewsofofthe thecity cityand andhas has spectacular been the thechoice choicefor forunforgettable unforgettableevents events been for more morethan thanaacentury. century. for The Statler StatlerBallroom Ballroomserved servedasasthe the The lobbyof ofthe thehistoric historicStatler StatlerHotel Hotelwhen when lobby openedin in1917 1917and andfeatures featuresmarble marble itit opened floors,two-story two-storycolumns columnsand andvaulted vaulted floors, ceilings.Celebrate Celebrateyour yourlove loveininhistoric historic ceilings. eleganceand andmodern moderncomfort. comfort. elegance Make your yourtradition traditiona apart partofofours. ours. Make You will willbe beglad gladyou yousaid said“I“Ido” do”totothe the You MarriottSt. St.Louis LouisGrand. Grand. Marriott

MARRIOTT MARRIOTTST. ST.LOUIS LOUISGRAND GRAND 800 800 Washington WashingtonAvenue Avenue (314)418-5820 (314)418-5820 marriottstlouisgrand.com marriottstlouisgrand.com STL_Bride_DoublePageSpread_Final.indd 1 STLWB_260100_033_048.indd 34

STL_B 12/4/25 11/14/22 12:12 PM 2:54 PM

CRYSTAL BALLROOM

gng ing g ott t n

nts s

nen

d ic

STATLER BALLROOM

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Ceremony • Reception • Engagement Party • Showers • Rehearsal Dinner • Lodging Celebrating your happily ever after has never been easier! Trust our all-inclusive venues to take care of decor, catering, bar service, day of coordination, and so much more when you choose Sugar Spring Weddings & Events. Expect modern amenities and exclusive luxuries while being surrounded by the sweetest Midwest charm. Our three unique venues are perfect for all of your wedding festivities, accommodating anywhere from 30 to 300 guests! Sugar Spring Ranch

1385 Centerville Road, Columbia, IL 62236 sugarspringranch.com • events@sugarspringranch.com • 618-281-2276

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s! Sugar Spring South 1365 N IL-3 Waterloo, IL 62298

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Sugar Spring Manor 4505 HH Road Waterloo, IL 62298

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It’s one day, make it the best

S U N S E T E V E N T S PA C E . C O M

Savor every moment with us.

EDITORIAL Editor Marianne Moore Art Director Hadley Kincaid Publisher Ethan Woods

ADVERTISING Account Manager Debbie Chervitz

debbie.chervitz@morris.com Circulation & Account Manager Amy Fenster Brown

amy.fenster@morris.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Beth von Behren Jennifer C. Frakes Denise McGrail Megan Rubenstein Amy Zimmerman

SAINT LOUIS BRIDE MAGAZINE 10805 Sunset Office Drive, Suite 300 St. Louis, MO 63127 (314) 588-8313 All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part strictly prohibited. SAINT LOUIS BRIDE MAGAZINE® is a registered trademark of Morris Visitor Publications. SAINT LOUIS BRIDE MAGAZINE® makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information it publishes, but cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from errors or omissions.

Wine, dine & relax

A Publication of MCC Magazines, LLC A division of Morris Communications Company, LLC 725 Broad St., Augusta, GA 30901

Catered by Twisted Tree Steakhouse Room blocks available on-site at Holiday Inn Route 66

President Vice President Director of Manufacturing & Production Account Manager Circulation Business Manager

Tina Battock Scott Ferguson Sherry Brown Veronica Brooks Michelle Rowe

MORRIS COMMUNICATIONS COMPANY, LLC Chairman CEO

William S. Morris III Craig S. Mitchell

Unless otherwise indicated, email for the above: firstname.lastname@morris.com P R I N T E D I N T H E U N I T E D S TAT E S

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BRIDESTL.COM • SPRING/SUMMER 2026

314.620.2141

StLouisBrideJune2025_all_bleedFINAL.pdf

5/30/25

12:18 PM

CMY

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CATERING & EVENTS culinarycanvasstl.com

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MIDTOWN STL

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12/ /25 3:

EXLUSIVE CATERER & EVENT MANAGEMENT FOR FIVE UNIQUE STL VENUES + select Culinary Canvas as your preferred caterer at numerous other St. Louis venues.

LEARN MORE

THE NOBLE

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THE BARNETT

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THIRD DEGREE GLASS

THE POST BUILDING

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maureenrenee.com

wedding planning & event design STLWB_260100_033_048.indd 42

midwest & destination locales

hi@maureenrenee.com 12/4/25 12:14 PM

FROM CONCEPT TO CUISINE, WE CATER EXCELLENCE At Walnut Catering + Events, we transform your vision into a beautifully executed dining experience. Thoughtful menus, graceful presentation, and attentive service come together with effortless sophistication so every moment of your celebration feels intentional, elegant, and beautifully you. Reserve your date with us today. Mention this ad during booking, and enjoy a complimentary appetizer as our gesture of appreciation.

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I N T H I S I S S U E | Real Details We Love

here is something special about the details these real wedding

EMMA AND MAX

couples choose. The small rituals, the fun surprises, and the

Instead of a photo

thoughtful touches that say so much about who they are. Each

booth, they invited

moment in these pages reflects the beauty of choosing what speaks

watercolor artist

to you. These are the things we love, and we hope they inspire you to find the

Elysha King to paint

details that feel like the two of you.

portraits of their guests. Friends left with keepsakes they could display, and the couple loved watching each painting come to life. Page 136.

ALEXANDRA AND SEAN Before the wedding, they took a trip to Lake Michigan with two close friends and collected stones. During the ceremony, each guest received one and added an intention for the couple. Those stones now rest in a carved wooden bowl on their mantle, a daily reminder of the support surrounding

MEGAN AND JEREMY They brought in a Pop A Shot machine as a nod to an early inside joke. They personalized it with a Purdue theme, where they met, and it quickly became one of the

EMILY AND CHRIS

most talked about

Emily carried the bouquet her mother-in-law

parts of the night.

used at her own wedding, and the table florals

Page 58.

were arranged by Chris’s aunt. It was a simple and meaningful way to bring family history into their day. Page 126.

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their marriage. Page 128.

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I N T H I S I S S U E | Real Details We Love

KATHRYN AND CONSTANTINE Their dessert table celebrated both families. Kathryn’s mom hosted an Italian cookie baking day, and Constantine’s family prepared Greek pastries including baklava and melomakarona. The display was labeled Amore and Agape and brought both cultures and expressions of love into the reception. Page 114.

DENISE AND ERIC For their unity moment, they each chose a favorite wine and poured it into a small fleur-de-lis glass. Their officiant Heather Dawn Mitchell found the glass as a nod to their Saint Louis roots

FROM MOM’S GOWN GETTING READY ROBE and her New Orleans home. It was an intimate way to mark their story. Page 108.

They chose a ring warming ceremony, passing their rings through the crowd before exchanging them. Each guest held the bands for a quiet moment. By the time the rings reached the altar, they carried the wishes of everyone in the room. Page 122.

MARGARET AND CHAYSE Margaret also wore a robe created from her mother’s wedding dress. It was a beautiful and

ELLEN AND BEN

personal detail that set the tone for a celebration

Ellen wore a robe made from her mother’s wedding gown. It added a sentimental

filled with love and meaning. Page 102.

touch to her morning and carried a piece of her mom through the day. Page 106.

BRIDESTL.COM • SPRING/SUMMER 2026

ALL PHOTO CREDITS CAN BE FOUND ON THE COUPLE’S REAL WEDDING PAGE

ANNA AND JOHN

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REAL MOMENTS Camryn + Blake APRI L 11 , 2025 CL AI RE FO R R EST FI LM S

Our first look down by the waterfall at Silver Oaks was everything. It was just the two of us, and it felt so intimate and special. The photos are absolutely stunning. Another moment I loved came at the very end of the night. We got back to the house and went through our photo booth book. I had totally forgotten we were even doing it, but it ended up being the best idea. It was so much fun to relive the night and see all of our guests’ photos and the notes they left for us.”

BRIDESTL.COM • SPRING/SUMMER 2026

Details VENUE: Silver Oaks Chateau PLANNER: Simcha’s Events, Simcha Louie DESIGN AND FLORALS: Belli Fiori CATERING: Sugarfire CAKE: Cake House Design LINENS: Nuage and BBJ LaTavola RENTALS: Decorum Events, Eye Candy Rentals, The Aries Company MUSIC: High Class DJ’s, Dawson High PHOTOBOOTH: Fête Booth GOWN: Mimi’s Bridal at Town & Country FORMALWEAR: Generation Tux HAIR: Deby Sansone MAKEUP: Lacey Dixon

SPRING/SUMMER 2026 • BRIDESTL.COM

REAL MOMENTS Alexandria + Anthony FEB RUARY 1 5 , 2025 AG PH OTOG R APHY

We wanted to create an experience that encompassed our love and appreciation for enjoying life. We wanted our guest to feel romance, joy, love and fun. We incorporated some of our favorite things to create a unique and enjoyable experience. Our guest left with a knockout experience because that’s how our love is. This included the things that we love, such as live music, live painter, dancing with our beautiful ballerinas and choreographed dance. We provided a St. Louis favorite for our latenight snack, a Fried Rice Bar.”

Details VENUE: Sheraton Westport Chalet Hotel St. Louis WEDDING PLANNER: Shon Love Events, LaShondria Love FLORIST: Chair Luxe, Alexia and Joshua Golden CAKE OR DESSERTS: Celebrating Life Cake Boutique CEREMONY MUSIC: Jupiter Soul Experience, Jason Jones RECEPTION MUSIC: The Dirty Muggs SPECIALTY LIGHTING, RENTALS AND DÉCOR: Chair Luxe INVITATIONS + CUSTOM MONOGRAM:

Ali’s Grafik Studio, Aliyah Belcher MENUS, ACRYLIC SIGNAGE, PROGRAM:

Allison & Alexandria Bratcher CEREMONY SIGN: Chair Luxe BALLERINAS: Viviant Entertainment ILLUSIONIST: Keith Joszef PHOTOBOOTH: Chair Luxe VIDEOGRAPHER: AG Photography GOWN: Tish Marie Designs, Dallas, Texas FORMALWEAR: Savvi Mens Formalwear HAIR: I Am Nini Hair, Stephanie Crawford MAKEUP: Tagged by Tia. MonTia Murphy

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REAL MOMENTS Marik + George J U N E 2 1 , 2025 G R ACEFU L M O M ENTS M EDIA

We decided to skip the traditional registry and support the Mighty Oakes Heart Foundation instead. Mighty Oakes is a nonprofit that helps families with children who have congenital heart defects; everything from covering rent and utilities to funding programs like Camp Rhythm, a camping experience for children in St. Louis and the surrounding area with congenital or acquired heart defects. I (Marik) had a heart transplant in 2007, and during my recovery I attended Camp Rhythm, and later came back as a counselor). The community, support, and sense of normalcy I found there played a big role in my life. Fun fact: our wedding photographer was actually one of my campers back in those Camp Rhythm days! Being able to honor that chapter of my life through our wedding felt really meaningful to both of us.”

Details CEREMONY LOCATION : Annunziata RECEPTION VENUE: The Hall at Olive + Oak PLANNER + DESIGNER: Bride + Groom DAY OF COORDINATOR: Catherine Brooks,

Coordinating with Catherine FLORIST: An Affair To Remember CEREMONY MUSIC: David Kowalczyk & Ensemble RECEPTION MUSIC: Spin Society SPECIALTY LIGHTING AND DÉCOR: Dream by Design STL RENTALS: Styled & Staged STL LETTERPRESS INVITATIONS:

Markus Hartel, Raghaus Studios PROGRAM ART AND CUSTOM BEER CAN LABEL:

Matt Meiners PHOTO BOOTH: GLOW Booth STL TRANSPORTATION: STL Trolley VIDEOGRAPHER: Graceful Moments Media GOWN: Savvy Bridal STL FORMALWEAR: Bonobos HAIR & MAKEUP: Emily Miller, Makeup & Hair;

Hair by Leslie Schultz, Makeup by Mary Bradbury

BRIDESTL.COM • SPRING/SUMMER 2026

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REAL MOMENTS Megan + Jeremy J U N E 2 1 , 2025 TH E B EN N E T TS

Have a plan for Sunday, or the day after the wedding. Think through plans for packing up at the hotel (you will have a lot of stuff!) and all the details like check-out time and what’s for breakfast. We continued the fun by going to a Cardinals game with our family, right across the street from our venue/hotel. The perfect way for out-of-town guests to experience St. Louis, but also the best summer activity for STL natives!”

Details CEREMONY LOCATION:

St. James Catholic Church, Millstadt, IL RECEPTION VENUE: Live! by Loews WEDDING PLANNER: ERO Weddings FLORIST: Savvy Floral Design CAKE + DESSERTS: Celebrating Life Cakes; Vincent Van

Doughnut for late night snacks CEREMONY MUSIC: Beth Hotter, Jean Reinneck RECEPTION MUSIC: Rockstar DJs SPECIALTY LIGHTING AND DÉCOR: Exclusive Events RENTALS: Chargers from Weinhardt Party Rentals, chairs from Exclusive Events STATIONERY: Minted TRANSPORTATION: A Perfect Touch Limo & Party Bus, wedding party; BEST Transportation, wedding guests VIDEOGRAPHER: The Bennetts GOWN: Martina Liana from Mimi’s Bridal at Town & Country FORMALWEAR: Men’s Wearhouse BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES: Bella Bridesmaids HAIR & MAKEUP: LUX Studio, Columbia, IL

BRIDESTL.COM • SPRING/SUMMER 2026

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Photos: Catherine Rhodes Photography

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REAL MOMENTS Ambria + Matthew MAY 25 , 2024 SAR AH CO RB E T T PH OTOG R APHY

We wanted our wedding to be a true reflection of who we are, so we incorporated details that celebrated our relationship and the values we hold dear. One of our favorite touches was including a groomsmaid and a bridesman, giving our siblings a special place by our sides. For our photos, we chose the Arch and the Old Courthouse, honoring both the city of St. Louis and the historical significance of the Dred Scott case and its enduring legacy. We were also intentional about supporting Black-owned, women-owned, and LGBTQ+ vendors. Working with a team whose values aligned with our own made the entire celebration feel even more personal, meaningful, and heartfelt.”

Details CEREMONY + RECEPTION: Marriott St. Louis Grand WEDDING PRODUCER: Slay Events FLORIST: Artistry Florist and Event Design CAKE: La Patisserie Choquette QUARTET: 314 Quartet DJ: Phat Mixx Productions STATIONERY: Invitation Design Studio PHOTOBOOTH: Mega Luxe Photo Booth TRANSPORTATION: Best Transportation VIDEOGRAPHER: Unique Vision Productions GOWN: Mori Lee from Mia Grace Bridal FORMALWEAR: Grooms Tux and

groomsmen suits from Stitch & Tie BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES: Azaie Mero MAKEUP: Flawless Illusions Make-Up Artistry BRIDE’S HAIR: MO Knows Hair, Monica Stevens BRIDESMAID’S HAIR:

Day 0 Hair Studio, Jasmine Buchanan

BRIDESTL.COM • SPRING/SUMMER 2026

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Resting on 7,500 acres with more than 100 glistening lakes, Innsbrook Resort presents one magnificent location with multiple adaptable venues to make your dream wedding a reality. From intimate and modest to large and extravagant, Innsbrook’s collection of premier indoor and outdoor ceremony venues promise the most spectacular backdrop for your special day that will leave you and your guests in awe. Offering professional on-site catering, a venue coordinator, rehearsals, receptions, overnight accommodations and more, Innsbrook resort promises an impeccable experience for life’s most important moments. Innsbrook Resort Wedding & Event Venue, 993 Aspen Lake Circle Drive, Innsbrook, MO. 636-928-3366 ex. 9884, innsbrook-resort.com/weddings Photography Courtesy of Innsbrook Resort Wedding & Event Venue, by Bryson B Photography Bride and Groom: Nava and Yoni

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REAL MOMENTS Madison + Jack J U N E 7, 2025 SAR AH HARVE Y PH OTOG R APHY

Surround yourself with vendors who truly understand you and allow them to do what they do best! When you trust your team, you’re more present to soak up the celebrations. Approach decisions with intention, but without losing sight of the “why” behind the weekend. Our wedding was not just a celebration of our love for one another and the new chapter we’re stepping into as husband and wife. It was also a celebration of everything that brought us to that day, the experiences that shaped us, the families who raised us, and the people who poured into our lives along the way. We wanted the day to honor not only our future, but also the community that helped us become who we are. Creating a celebration that felt warm, grateful, and centered on the people who mean the most to us made the entire day feel incredibly full-circle and deeply meaningful.”

Details CEREMONY LOCATION:

Concordia Lutheran Church, Kirkwood VENUE:

Missouri Athletic Club, Downtown PLANNING + DESIGN + COORDINATION:

Hillary J Events FLORIST: Kirkwood Florist MUSIC: Red Jackets Band, Alex Ruwe Entertainment RENTALS: Weinhardt Party Rentals, Styled Bubbly PAPER GOODS: Shuler Studio, Hailey Kiss Creative, The Ink Spot TRANSPORTATION: Champagne Limo VIDEOGRAPHER: Lentini Productions GOWN: Martina Liana from Mimi’s Bridal at Town & Country HAIR & MAKEUP: Libby’s Blowtique

BRIDESTL.COM • SPRING/SUMMER 2026

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REAL MOMENTS Elena + Lane OC TO B ER 11 , 2025 TH E SLO N ES PH OTO + FI LM

We put a lot of thought into the little details too. We had custom matchbooks with our names and wedding date, cocktail napkins, and even a cake-cutting set with the date engraved. I wanted those personal touches so our guests could enjoy them, but also so Lane and I would have those keepsakes to look back on. Instead of doing a traditional photo booth, we set disposable cameras on the tables and asked guests to snap photos throughout the night. It’s kind of an old-school idea that’s making a comeback, and I love that we’ll get to see our wedding through their eyes. It feels fun, personal, and a little different.”

Details CEREMONY LOCATION: The Chase Park Plaza St. Louis. RECEPTION VENUE: Forest Park Visitor Center CATERER: Catering Saint Louis WEDDING PLANNER: Celebrate by Cece FLORIST: Bloomin’ Buckets CAKE + DESSERTS:

Sarah’s Cake Shop, Clementine’s Ice Cream MUSIC: TKO DJs RENTALS: Millennium Productions, reception dance floor PAPER GOODS: Minted TRANSPORTATION: BEST Transportation GOWN: Mikaella Bridal from The Ultimate Bride STL FORMALWEAR: Savvi Formalwear HAIR & MAKEUP: Studio Bride

BRIDESTL.COM • SPRING/SUMMER 2026

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REAL MOMENTS Emily + Mitch MAY 3 , 2025 J O RDAN G RESHAM PH OTOG R APHY

Of course, no matter how carefully you plan, a wedding day always has surprises. We had arranged for an outdoor ceremony and cocktail hour in the beautiful courtyard at Grant’s Farm, but the universe had other ideas. It stormed the entire day...and I mean the entire day. We had to pivot and bring everything indoors into the reception room. It wasn’t our original vision, but I trusted it would still be magical. Five minutes before the ceremony began, just as my husband and I were about to line up, we heard a loud boom and the lights went out. A transformer had blown, cutting power to the entire venue. We just stared at each other and laughed. Knowing this wasn’t going to be a quick fix, we chose to move forward anyway, and it ended up being even more romantic than anything we could have planned. We were married under the soft glow of hundreds of candles, accompanied by a beautiful string quartet, surrounded by our favorite people and wrapped in love and prayer. It was truly the most magical version of our day. And although it wasn’t the beautiful, sunny day every bride dreams of, it became something even more enchanting; a story we’ll happily tell for the rest of our lives.”

BRIDESTL.COM • SPRING/SUMMER 2026

Details VENUE: Grant’s Farm CATERER: Russo’s Catering PLANNING + DESIGN: Emily Nicole Brauer FLORIST: Twisted Willow Design CAKE: Russo Catering CEREMONY MUSIC: Beau Son Strings RECEPTION MUSIC: Show Me Sound RENTALS:

Styled & Staged STL, Styled Bubbly PAPER GOODS: Emily Nicole Brauer VIDEOGRAPHER: Brandon Zeluff Media WEDDING DAY CONTENT:

Hype Queen Media WEDDING DAY PET HANDLER: WedPets GOWN: Eva Lendel, Emily Hart Bridal FORMALWEAR:

Tailored Gents at Saville Row HAIR & MAKEUP: The Artist Edit

SPRING/SUMMER 2026 • BRIDESTL.COM

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REAL MOMENTS Madeline + Josh SEPTEM B ER 6 , 2025 J OY LYN N PH OTO + FI LM

Remember you, your partner, and your love are the most important parts of the wedding day! Everything else will fall into place. Find ways to enjoy the process and celebrate the milestones as you approach the big day. We did date nights on the 6th of each month for a whole year leading up to our wedding day, September 6th! Those date nights have continued into married life as well.”

Details CEREMONY LOCATION:

Saint Francis Xavier College Church RECEPTION VENUE: Anheuser-Busch Biergarten WEDDING PLANNER: Madeline, the bride,

did the planning and organization up until wedding day. RECEPTION COORDINATOR: Heather Hammett FLORIST: Rouge Floral Design, Katie Hackmann CAKE OR DESSERTS: McArthurs Bakery CEREMONY MUSIC: St. Francis Xavier Musicians RECEPTION MUSIC: TKO DJs PAPER GOODS: designed by Madeline,

printed locally at Gibson Print Graphics PHOTOBOOTH: Complete Wedding + Events TRANSPORTATION: STL Trolley LLC GOWN: Mia Grace Bridal FORMALWEAR: Men’s Wearhouse HAIR: Nikki Verby MAKEUP: Sarah Bruno Rehagen

BRIDESTL.COM • SPRING/SUMMER 2026

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REAL MOMENTS Kelsey + Zach J U LY 1 9, 2025 TRENT B ROG LI N PH OTOG R APHY

Embrace the journey and ask for help when you need it. Wedding planning becomes so much more enjoyable when you find ways to make it fun together. For us, that meant turning vendor meetings and decisions into little date adventures. Before we even booked FatPocket, we went to see them at the Wildwood summer concert series and made a whole night of it. Choosing suits became a spontaneous day date filled with good food and laughter. We loved getting to taste the menu at Callier’s alongside our parents. At home, we’d cue up our firstdance song and practice in the living room like no one was watching. These small, joy-filled moments made the planning process just as memorable as the celebration itself.”

BRIDESTL.COM • SPRING/SUMMER 2026

Details VENUE: Westwind Hills CATERER: Callier’s Catering PLANNING + DESIGN: Westwind Hills DAY OF COORDINATION: Vaughn Bridal Company, Hannah Vaughn FLORIST: AM Floral Designs CAKE + DESSERTS: The Cakery Bakery and Grandma’s Cookies CEREMONY MUSIC: FatPocket and Abigail Stahlschmidt on the Electic Violin RECEPTION MUSIC: FatPocket Band PAPER GOODS: Minted TRANSPORTATION: JED Transportation GOWN: White Traditions. I wore my sisters veil and had pieces of my grandmas wedding dress sewn into mine. FORMALWEAR: Jos. A. Bank — we rented! HAIR & MAKEUP: hair by Katie Creamer, makeup by Jenn Lynch

SPRING/SUMMER 2026 • BRIDESTL.COM

REAL MOMENTS Sydney + Daniel J U N E 28 , 2025 M ICH ELLE PU LIZ ZO O F WH ITE K LU M P PH OTOG R APHY

We wanted our wedding to feel sentimental and filled with details that reflected who we are, both as individuals and as a couple. Our ceremony took place at the church where I, the bride, grew up and attended school, while our reception was held at the country club my husband grew up going to. Both places hold such fond memories and are deeply meaningful to us and our families. As a couple, we appreciate a simple and classic style, which helped guide our overall wedding vision.”

Details CEREMONY: Holy Infant Catholic Church RECEPTION: Greenbriar Hills Country Club WEDDING PLANNER: Big Designs,

Rebecca Laugeman FLORIST: Artistry Floral and Event Design CAKE + DESSERTS: cake by Sarah’s Cake Shop, monogrammed cookies from Sugarworks by Mary Buschmann, CEREMONY MUSIC: David Kowalczyk, Organist and Coordinator; Eugene Pierce, vocalist RECEPTION MUSIC: Cole Coleman RENTALS: Weinhardt Party Rentals STATIONERY: Lola Louie Paperie TRANSPORTATION: JED Transportation GOWN: Dany Tabet from Mimi’s Bridal at Town & Country FORMALWEAR: Stallone’s Formalwear HAIR & MAKEUP: Makeup by Emily Miller Hair & Makeup; makeup by Teal Dontrich, hair by Mary Bradbury

BRIDESTL.COM • SPRING/SUMMER 2026

Photos by Haven Viola Photography

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REAL MOMENTS Nicole + JP MAY 24 , 2025 M EGAN KI N G PH OTOG R APHY

Our wedding was very St. Louis, we went to places like Kaldi’s and Sasha’s on Demun. We loved using Forest Park and all of our favorite places. We also got engaged in front of the Monet so getting to take wedding photos there was so fun and personal.”

BRIDESTL.COM • SPRING/SUMMER 2026

Details VENUE: Saint Louis Art Museum WEDDING PLANNER: LZ Event Co.,

Lauren Zigman Eastman FLORIST: Belli Fiori CAKE: The Cakery Bakery MUSIC: Spin Society, DJ Chris Brown RENTALS:

TPI STL, Aries Company, Seated STL STATIONERY: Kate Eliza Creative PHOTOBOOTH: Fête Booth TRANSPORTATION: STL Trolley Company VIDEOGRAPHER: Gold Hair Pin GOWN: Mia Grace Bridal FORMALWEAR:

Groom custom suit by Be the Man LLC HAIR + MAKEUP: Glam by Hoda

SPRING/SUMMER 2026 • BRIDESTL.COM

REAL MOMENTS Elizabeth + Chase J U LY 1 9, 2025 IVO RY G ROVE PH OTO AN D VI DEO

We wanted our wedding to feel deeply personal, something that reflected not just our relationship, but the generations of love that came before us. When it was time to walk down the aisle, I chose to do so to my grandpa’s favorite worship songs. Hearing that music made it feel like a piece of him was there with us. We also lit a unity candle, one with its own history. It was the very same candle my parents used at their wedding nearly 35 years ago. And lastly, one of my favorite details- tucked into my bouquet was a small handkerchief that every bride in my family has carried since the 1890s.”

Details VENUE: Stone House of St. Charles CATERER: Walunt Catering FLORIST: Serendipity Florals CAKE: Fig & Lyle’s GOWN: Colby John from Savvy Bridal FORMALWEAR: Men’s Wearhouse

BRIDESTL.COM • SPRING/SUMMER 2026

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REAL MOMENTS Mary + Rachel SEPTEM B ER 28 , 2024 LPH OTOG R APH I E

Don’t let yourself get boxed in by rules or expectations because there really are none. Create a day that feels authentic to who you are as a couple. We curated our band’s entire set list to reflect our personalities. We leaned more into Madonna than Sweet Caroline to keep the dance floor fun, inclusive, and a little bit edgy. If you envision a black tie wedding, even when others try to talk you out of it, go for it. We did, and it made for incredible photos of our guests. If you want hype dancers, do it. If you want to make a dramatic entrance on horseback, do it, and remember the guests. Thoughtful touches like proper timing, climate considerations, meal spacing, and access to bars go a long way in making the celebration enjoyable for everyone.”

BRIDESTL.COM • SPRING/SUMMER 2026

Details VENUE: Westwood Country Club PLANING + DESIGN:

Simcha’s Events, Simcha Lourie FLORIST: Buds STL’ RENTALS: The Aries Co. CEILING INSTALLATION: Exclusive Events GOWNS: MARY: Christian Dior RACHEL: Oscar de la Renta BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES:

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REAL MOMENTS Antonia + Alex MAY 9, 2025 EM I LY OWENS PH OTOG R APHY

We wanted to keep the wedding small in order for everything to feel personable. We wanted to celebrate our big day surrounded by the most special/close group of friends & family. I definitely think we accomplished this vibe! We used Spotify to help create an upbeat playlist that catered to different genres & decades. From Cher, Abba, Rihanna, Beyonce, Blink 182 and lots of country. We really focused on what music makes us happy to dance the night away Ultimately, trust your instincts and follow through on the moments you’re unsure about. Doing so ensures you create meaningful memories without regret, oh and you can’t go wrong with bubbles and light sticks. Both were a huge HIT & fun props to have.”

Details VENUE: Knotting Hills CATERER: Sugarfire FLORIST: Platinum Floral Affair CAKE: Federhofer’s Bakery CEREMONY MUSIC: DJ Connections GOWN: Mia Grace Bridal FORMALWEAR: Mens Wearhouse BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES: Birdy Grey HAIR & MAKEUP:

Studiobride St. Louis, Kayla

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REAL MOMENTS Nikki + Michael SEPTEM B ER 28 , 2024 SAR AH CO RB E T T PH OTOG R APHY

My husband is from St. Louis, I’m from Los Angeles originally, and we currently live in the Boston area. Most of my family had never been to St. Louis before, and we wanted to use the wedding weekend as an opportunity to show off a place that is very special to both of us. Planning a wedding together is probably the first “group project” you will do with your partner. You will see parts of them and parts of yourself that you haven’t seen before, and it can be a lot to navigate. My advice during this process would be to remember that you’re a team! Each of you will care more (or less) about different parts of the wedding. Find the things that are most important to you and lean into them. Know when to let go. Remind yourself often that it is your day and you should do what feels right to you, but thinking about your guests and their comfort and enjoyment is also important. After all, the day is about you, but also your village.”

BRIDESTL.COM • SPRING/SUMMER 2026

Details VENUE: Sunflower Hill Farm WEDDING PLANNER: Revel & Wonder

Weddings, Wendy Markum FLORIST: Irene’s Floral Design CAKE: Sarah’s Cake Shop CEREMONY MUSIC: Steiling Strings RECEPTION MUSIC: Vote for Pedro PHOTOBOOTH: Fun Photo Events TRANSPORTATION: JED Transportation VIDEOGRAPHER: Melissa Jae Films, Melissa Quinones GOWN: I Do Wedding Boston, ÉLYSÉE by Ines FORMALWEAR:

Birdy Grey + The Black Tux HAIR + MAKEUP: Looks by Lisa

SPRING/SUMMER 2026 • BRIDESTL.COM

Wedding Suits & Tuxedos

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VOTED BEST ST. LOUIS BRIDAL SALON!

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REAL MOMENTS Katherine + Nick J U LY 26 , 2025 LISA H ESSEL PH OTOG R APHY

We welcomed guests to their hotels with Colleen’s Cookies, each one designed to represent different chapters of our relationship, adding a sweet and sentimental touch from the very beginning. We created a “Best Buds” escort wall as a nod to our family and closest friends, their names displayed alongside bud vases that tied into our garden theme, with coolers of Budweiser, our favorite drink waiting beneath it. Throughout the night, we served our favorite appetizers and desserts, named our signature cocktails after meaningful college landmarks, and filled the entire celebration with the music we love most.”

Details CEREMONY LOCATION: Graham Chapel at Washington University RECEPTION VENUE: Bayer Event Center at the Missouri Botanical Garden CATERER: Catering St. Louis WEDDING PLANNER: Kristin Ashley Events FLORIST: Ashley MacDonald Floral Designs CAKE + DESSERTS: La Pâtisserie Chouquette + Catering St. Louis WELCOME COOKIES: Colleen’s Cafe CEREMONY MUSIC:

Landolfi String Quartet and Ensemble RECEPTION MUSIC: Fat Pocket SPECIALTY LIGHTING, RENTALS AND DÉCOR:

Exclusive Events TABLETOP RENTALS: AM Floral LINENS: BBJ & Nuage STATIONERY: Carly Creative Company PHOTOBOOTH: Fête Booth St. Louis TRANSPORTATION: BEST Transportation VIDEOGRAPHER: Sweet Tea Films GOWN: Lee-Ann Belter, Berrybridge Bridal FORMALWEAR: Black Tux & Azazie HAIR & MAKEUP: Brides by Brady

BRIDESTL.COM • SPRING/SUMMER 2026

THE KNOT - “BEST OF WEDDINGS HALL OF FAME”

Bringing our expertise to your big day Since 1961, Russo’s Catering has gained the trust of tens of thousands of wedding couples by providing exceptional food and legendary service. From elegant plated meals to creative international stations, our food always leaves a lasting impression. Explore the service styles and dishes that resonate with you in our newly designed Wedding Package portfolio.

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Your perfect wedding weekend starts here.

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Perfect Wedding Weekend All your friends and family under one roof Things to see, do & hear just steps away Cocktails under the stars A whiskey collection that wows Dreamy Sunday morning send-off brunch

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REAL MOMENTS Sarah + Blake MAY 24 , 2025 CH OSEN PH OTOG R APHY

Remember that at the core of the wedding is your love. It is so easy to get caught up in details, all the choices, to-do lists, and even other’s opinions; but at the end of the day, the whole point is that you are getting to marry the love of your life: your person. What we often said was “As long as I get to marry you, all of the other things that go right are a bonus and the stuff that goes wrong won’t matter.” Remember to surround yourself with people that will help you remember this and who are going to uplift you, support you, and do their best to make you feel celebrated, loved, and at ease. Finally, it sounds so cliché- but it goes by so quickly. Just remember to breathe, take it all in, and cherish every moment you can.”

Details VENUE: River City Casino & Hotel DAY OF COORDINATOR: Coordinating

with Catherine, Catherine Brooks FLORIST: Root and Relic CAKE: Made. by Lia; Gelato Bar by River City Casino MUSIC: Elite Pro DJ; Violinist, McKenna Vereeke PHOTOBOOTH: Tru View Productions VIDEOGRAPHER: Chosen Photography GOWN: Essence of Australia, The Ultimate Bride St. Louis FORMALWEAR: SavviFormalwear, HAIR & MAKEUP: Kamco Beauty, bridal make-up by Kelly Callaway; bridal hair by Simone Liston

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_La _FINAL.pdf

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CMY

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REAL MOMENTS Margaret + Chayse J U LY 26 , 2025 MAGG I E ADAM S PH OTO

We put welcome bags together that represented some of our favorite things from St. Louis and South Jersey, which is where we live now. We added mini gooey butter cakes for STL and salt water taffy from the Ocean City Boardwalk in New Jersey. I wore my great grandma’s pearls on the wedding day that my mom wore on her wedding day. I also wore a robe made from my mom’s wedding dress while getting ready. My husband’s suit had the date of the wedding inside the collar and he also wore a handkerchief made from his moms wedding dress. Overall we chose all the colors for the weddings ourselves and really did our best to make it our own with the little details of the wedding.”

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Details CEREMONY LOCATION:

Mary Queen of Peace RECEPTION VENUE: The Coronado CATERER: Butler’s Pantry DAY OF WEDDING COORDINATION:

Caroline Darroch with Hillary J. Events FLORIST: Botanical Design Studios CAKE: La Bonne Bouchée CEREMONY MUSIC: Mary Pentecost, Mary Queen of Peace RECEPTION MUSIC: Lost Wax Band STATIONERY: Paige Wade PHOTOBOOTH: Ilo Photobooth TRANSPORTATION: Jed Limousine VIDEOGRAPHER: Lentini Productions GOWN: Mimi’s Bridal at Town & Country FORMALWEAR: Groom’s suit, Enzo custom HAIR + MAKEUP:

Emily Miller Hair & Makeup

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CURATE YOUR ARTFUL CELEBRATION AT

We believe events are about the moments that bring us together. Celebrate these moments in big and small ways with artful surroundings and delightful personal touches, suited just for you. www.lemeridienclayton.com or tell us about your vision sales@lemeridienclayton.com Le Meridien St. Louis Clayton | 7730 Bonhomme Ave. St. Louis, MO 63105 | 314.719.4308

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The Bella Showroom Experience

Your local Bella showroom serves as your home base, providing you with a personalized, one-on-one experience alongside an expert stylist. This allows you to explore bridesmaid dress options in person, ensuring that every detail is perfect for your special day.

Perfect to the Last Detail

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A Wide Selection of Designer Dresses

Personalized Assistance from Start to Finish

If your friends or family reside in diﬀerent parts of the United States, there is no need to worry. Bella has multiple locations nationwide, and you can easily coordinate your bridesmaid’s dress selection through a customized virtual showroom. This service ensures that everyone can participate in the process, regardless of their location.

Bella makes dress shopping simple and enjoyable by oﬀering an extensive collection of designer bridesmaid dresses. With hundreds of styles, colors, and sizes available, you and your bridal party are sure to ﬁnd options that suit everyone’s preferences.

Your dedicated stylist will guide you and your bridesmaids throughout the entire process, from initial selection to the arrival of the dresses. Experience the Bella diﬀerence and discover how eﬀortless and fun bridesmaid dress shopping can be.

BELLA BRIDESMAIDS | 4732 McPherson Ave, St Louis, MO 63108 | 314-925-8584

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REAL MOMENTS Ellen + Ben J U LY 1 9, 2025 CH OSEN PH OTOG R APHY

Truly take the time to enjoy every moment of the wedding planning process and do your best to work together to curate the perfect, most meaningful day for the two of you. It is such a special time in life and it goes by fast!”

Details CEREMONY LOCATION:

Queen of All Saints Catholic Church RECEPTION VENUE: St. Louis Union Station Hotel WEDDING PLANNER: Proposing Dreams FLORIST: Sisters Floral Design Studio CAKE: The Cakery Bakery CEREMONY MUSIC: Cecilia Wall, Nate Jackson RECEPTION MUSIC: High Class DJs, Dawson High SPECIALTY LIGHTING AND DÉCOR: Union Station,

High Class DJs, and Sisters Floral Design Studio RENTALS: Linens by Weinhardt Party Rentals PAPER GOODS: all wedding day paper

coordinated through Proposing Dreams PHOTOBOOTH: Fete Photo Booth TRANSPORTATION: Rockstar Party Bus STL VIDEOGRAPHER: Chosen Photography GOWN: Essence of Australia, True Society

by Belle Vogue Bridal, Kansas City FORMALWEAR: Bridesmaid dresses by Lula Kate,

tuxedos by Jos A Bank HAIR & MAKEUP: Studio Bride GETTING READY ROBE: My getting ready robe was made from my mother’s wedding dress! Beautifully transformed by Kendra J Bridal

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From your first look to your first getaway as a married couple, our dedicated professionals are here to help you through every step of your wedding planning and honeymoon journey. Join World of Hyatt and earn Bonus Points towards rewards that you can enjoy like free nights that can be cashed in for use in time for your honeymoon. Receive these points the moment you sign your wedding contract. Plus, the rewards continue even after your wedding and final payment. Ignite a lifetime of adventure together with qualifying night credits you've earned toward your World of Hyatt status, and begin enjoying rewards such as suite upgrades, additional free nights and status benefits with every stay. Request the code HMOON in your contract by December 31, 2027. Terms apply.

hyattregencystlouis.com

HYATT REGENCY ST. LOUIS AT THE ARCH 315 Chestnut Street St Louis, Missouri 63102

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REAL MOMENTS Denise + Eric OC TO B ER 12, 2025 Z ACH DALI N PH OTOG R APHY

Go with your gut and plan the day that makes YOU BOTH excited. Stick to that as your compass. This is how we planned our whole day, and knew that we were going to have a blast, and our loved ones would too. We wanted our wedding guests to feel like they walked into an extension of the same hospitality we show in our home. We are both sommeliers, so the custom wine experience’and tasting tables were important for us. We included some of our favorite wines from regions that have shaped our travel or love for wine. All of our friends that offered their services and products for our wedding, made it an amazing experience. Our guests were also surrounded by the love of our family and friends. the custom arbor that my father built, which is now attached to our back deck at our home.”

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Details VENUE: Third Degree Glass Factory CATERING: Michele Coen of Michele C Catering & Events COMPOSTABLE SERVICEWARE:

Natural Tableware CUSTOM BEVERAGES SELECTIONS:

Bride and Groom WINE + WHISKEY ATTENDANTS:

Beth & Matt Sorrell of Cocktails are Go! WEDDING PLANNER: Denise Mueller, Bride FLORIST: Bride and Maid of Honor CAKE + BROWNIES: Meaghan Coltrain of Napoli Restaurant Group; Nutmegs Macarons from Lydia Allen of Lydia’s by Sugar & Slice Bakery CEREMONY MUSIC: Cellist, Tai Davis RECEPTION MUSIC: DJ Shad CUSTOM ARBOR: Designed by the Bride, Engineered and Built by Father of the Bride, Charles Mueller PHOTOBOOTH: Fêtebooth GOWN: Jenny Yoo, The Bridal Parlour FORMALWEAR: Men’s Wearhouse HAIR + MAKEUP: Ninfa Serra Govero, Strands Hair

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REAL MOMENTS Heather + Zachary AU G UST 1 0, 2024 M K LO EFFLER PH OTOG R APHY

A piece of advice that we received to help make the planning process more enjoyable & fun was to make a date night out of it. Wedding band shopping l? Grab dinner afterwards! Mailing invites? Enjoy it with a glass of wine & a good playlist!”

Details VENUE: The Olde Wicks Factory CATERER: Bella Milano, cocktail hour,

Cygan & Delaney, reception FLORIST: An Affair To Remember CAKE: Amethyst Cakes & Events CEREMONY MUSIC: Jesse Vincent RECEPTION MUSIC: Porta Party DJs DÉCOR + RENTALS:

An Affair To Remember PHOTO BOOTH: Let’s Celebrate VIDEOGRAPHER: Bryson B Photo PET SITTER: Furever There GOWN: Mia Grace FORMALWEAR: Maroon Bridal BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES: Birdy Grey HAIR & MAKEUP: Face It

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Impress your guests with our Gold Glove service.

Busch Stadium | 700 Clark Street | Saint Louis, MO 63102 314-345-9630 | specialevents@cardinals.com | cardinals.com/events

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REAL MOMENTS Chrissy + Andrew J U N E 6 , 2025 M ICH ELLE JAH N S PH OTOG R APH Y

We met at aviation summer camp at AirVenture Oshkosh when we were both in high school. We have also both worked in Aviation ever since. To incorporate that we had 'Remove Before Flight' tags with our name and wedding date made to pass out as our favors at the reception. Andrew, during his dinner speech, surprised Chrissy with a newspaper from the year we met at camp where a photo of both of us made it into the pages.”

Details CEREMONY LOCATION:

Piper Palm House RECEPTION VENUE:

The Franklin of Soulard FLORIST: The Faux Bouquet CAKE: The Cakery Bakery MUSIC: McMusic Events TRANSPORTATION:

A Perfect Touch Limo and Party Bus GOWN: Essence of Australia, Bon Bon

Belle Bridal, Burlington, WI FORMALWEAR: Groom, Hart Schaffner Marx; Groomsmen Men's Wearhouse HAIR + MAKEUP: PeachBlossoms Hair and Makeup Artistry

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REAL MOMENTS Kathryn + Constantine J U N E 14 , 2025 TALITHA TARRO PH OTOG R APHY

It was important to incorporate both my Italian heritage and my husband’s Greek culture. Our specialty cocktails continued the theme with an Italian Spritz and a Baklava Old Fashioned. We brought in a Greek DJ from Canada to blend Greek music with today’s hits. Guests especially loved watching the groom’s cousins honor their heritage with traditional Greek dances. We also did the Italian wedding dance, inviting all couples to the floor for ‘That’s Amore’. My husband’s grandparents won with nearly 67 years of marriage.”

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Details CEREMONY LOCATION:

Assumption Greek Orthodox Church RECEPTION VENUE:

Missouri History Museum CATERER: Russo’s Catering WEDDING PLANNER: Event Doc STL FLORIST: Always in Bloom CAKE: Russo’s Catering CEREMONY MUSIC: Cantor: Dr. Steve Leon; Organist: Henry Evans RECEPTION MUSIC: V.I.P. Disc Jockey (Greek DJ from Toronto) SPECIALTY LIGHTING AND DÉCOR:

Alobar’s Incorporated, Exclusive Events RENTALS: Weinhardt Party Rentals STATIONERY: Bride designed + produced PHOTOBOOTH: Fête Booth TRANSPORTATION: BEST Transportation VIDEOGRAPHER: Millennium Production LATE NIGHT SNACK: Imo’s Pizza GOWN: Sophia Tolli from Mia Grace bridal FORMALWEAR: Suits Unlimited BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES: Bella Bridesmaid HAIR & MAKEUP: Hair: Salon MaRosie, Deby Sansone, Make-Up: Tina Hamby

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REAL MOMENTS Hannah + Jared SEPTEM B ER 12, 2025 L ACE Y G R AHAM PH OTOG R APHY

We made our wedding feel personal by doing our vows privately before the ceremony. It was such a special moment for just the two of us. It was also really important to us to be at most of our cocktail hour. We wanted to enjoy the yummy appetizers and cocktails and actually spend time with our guests before the reception started. We also put together goodie bags for our guests checking into their hotel with some of our favorite snacks, so they could enjoy a little something special from us.”

Details VENUE: The Bourbon Ballroom at Old Monroe Distillery CATERER: Russo's Catering FLORIST: Savvy Floral Design CAKE: Russo's Catering MUSIC: High Class DJ, Dawson High TRANSPORTATION: Platinum Limo STL GOWN: Mimi's Bridal at Town & Country FORMALWEAR: Savvi Formalwear BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES: Show Me Your Mumu HAIR: Amenities on Main and Kompliments Salon MAKEUP: Bride, Enhanced Beauty Artistry; Bridesmaids,

Miranda Sutton Beauty

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REAL MOMENTS Annie + Chris SEPTEM B ER 13 , 2025 MAGG I E ADAM S PH OTO

We had a lot of guests travel in for our wedding, so we wanted every detail of the weekend to feel thoughtful and personal. We made so many of the details ourselves, including the matchbooks, the welcome party cards, and even the tambourines on the dance floor. One of the most special touches, and something that felt uniquely “us,” was our entrance. All of our guests were seated in the audience at The Fox Theatre, and when the curtain rose, Chris and I were already onstage. The reveal of the entire stage set for the reception with the tables, the florals, and the dance floor was such a magical moment. Seeing their reactions as the curtain lifted and then having everyone join us onstage made it feel so special and real!”

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Details CEREMONY LOCATION: The Old Cathedral RECEPTION VENUE:

The Fabulous Fox Theatre WEDDING PLANNER:

Rebecca Laugeman, Big Designs FLORIST: Artistry Florist and Event Design CAKE: Celebrating Life Cakes CEREMONY MUSIC:

Angela Rocchio, Soprano; Daniel Vizer, Old Cathedral Organist RECEPTION MUSIC: Diamond Empire Band SPECIALTY LIGHTING AND DÉCOR:

Millennium Productions INVITATION:

The Service Bureau Fine Stationery NAPKINS: Sip Sip Hooray MENUS, SIGNAGE: Gene-Del PHOTOBOOTH: St. Louis Photo Party TRANSPORTATION: St. Louis Trolley GOWN: Jenny Yoo, Jenny Yoo Salon FORMALWEAR: Groom, Ralph Lauren;

Groomsmen, Savvi Formalwear HAIR + MAKEUP:

Emily Miller Makeup & Hair

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REAL MOMENTS Emma + Derian MARCH 29, 2025 ZO E WOO DS PH OTOG R APHY

Make decisions around what's important to the two of you, not what may be trending or what you may feel is expected of you. We added sentimental value and personal touches where we could. I wore earrings that 3 generations of women in my family have worn for their weddings, for our champagne toast we used glasses that were a gift to my great grandmother on her wedding day and have now been used by 4 generations on their wedding day, we thrifted all of the chargers, and more. I am from St. Louis but my husband and I met in Hawaii so the Jewel Box seemed like the perfect venue It’s one of the few places you can find palm trees in St. Louis.”

Details CEREMONY LOCATION:

The Jewel Box in Forest Park RECEPTION VENUE: Visitor Center at Forest Park CATERER: Catering St. Louis WEDDING PLANNER: Creedon Rose Events,

Katie Gebke FLORIST: Urban Buds CAKE: Mary Bogacki MUSIC: Millenium Productions, Benji RENTALS: Creedon Rose Events PHOTOBOOTH: Chee Cam Disposable Cameras TRANSPORTATION: STL Party Bus GOWN: Martina Liana, Mimi's Bridal

at Town & Country FORMALWEAR: Stitch & Tie HAIR + MAKEUP: makeup by Smith + Simms,

hair by Tori, Camille Hair

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Photographer: Ray Prop

WHERE LOVE BECOMES A MASTERPIECE Celebrate your love surrounded by timeless art, stunning architecture, and sweeping views of Forest Park. Whether an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, every detail at the Saint Louis Art Museum is a masterpiece in itself.

Scan to begin your celebration at SLAMevents.net SARAH HECKEMEYER • 314.655.5387 • SLAMEVENTS@CIEMAIL.COM

SAINT LOUIS ART MUSEUM ONE FINE ARTS DRIVE, FOREST PARK, ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI 63110

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REAL MOMENTS Anna + John SEPTEM B ER 2 1 , 2024 SAR AH CO RB E T T PH OTOG R APHY

After our first look, we read our vows to each other privately, creating an intimate moment that grounded us before the ceremony began. Instead of a unity candle ceremony, we did a unity sand ceremony. The bride’s sand was from Barrington Beach in Rhode Island, her home town, that she and her sister gathered after her Bachelorette party. The Groom’s sand was collected from the Creve Coeur Lake at the St Louis Rowing Club Boathouse, which is where he has and still rows.”

Details VENUE: The Inn at St. Albans CATERER: Hollyberry Catering FLORIST: Artistry Florist and Event Design CAKE: McArthur’s Bakery DESSERT BUFFET: Blue Owl, Nothing Bundt Cakes,

Hank’s Cheesecakes, and Hollyberry Catering MUSIC: Millennium Productions, DJ Benji M. SPECIALTY LIGHTING AND DÉCOR:

Lighting, Millennium Productions; Arbor flowers were built and arranged by family STATIONERY: Stationery for all the wedding events were designed by the bride and the groom’s family INSTANT FILM: Jeremy Minnerick TRANSPORTATION: The Inn at St. Albans shuttle GOWN: “Cora” by Traditions, Mimi's Bridal at Town & Country FORMALWEAR: Men’s Wearhouse BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES: Azzaie HAIR & MAKEUP: Brides by Brady

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Celebrate your unforgettable day at a “one of a kind” venue. Contact our team of experienced event professionals at (314) 241-4300 or catering@hotelsaintlouis.com *Mention this ad and receive a complimentary champagne toast for your guests when you book your event with us.

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REAL MOMENTS Brianna + Alex AU G UST 3 1 , 2025 M I HA PH OTO, EM I LY ACOSTA

Planning a wedding comes with pressure from so many sides: internally, externally, socially, financially, and emotionally. It was important to us that we stayed true to who we were, so we focused on the things that drew us together: authenticity, sustainability, community, and art. We leaned on the people in our lives; our officiant was a mentor of the bride and the mother of one of our close friends, our pianist was another close friend of ours, and my bridesmaids chose their own dresses and arranged with their own hands the bouquets that they carried. They each put their mark on our wedding day, and we get to see it in every memory and photo.”

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Details VENUE: Das Bevo WEDDING PAINTER: Libby Rule FLORIST: Dried flowers arranged by Bride, Groom, and Bridesmaids. CAKE + DESSERTS:

Tres Leches Cake by Diana's Bakery, Cherokee Street + Crumbl cookies CEREMONY MUSIC:

Haneul "Jennie" Lee, piano RECEPTION MUSIC:

DJ Makossa AKA Rory Flynn GOWN: Vintage 70s Wedding Dress,

purchased at May's Place FORMALWEAR:

Groom's Suit from Peter Christian; vest from The Vintage Haberdashery BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES:

They chose their own dresses. GROOMSMEN SUITS: Savvi Formalwear. HAIR & MAKEUP: Lalo Salon, hair by

Meaghyn M., makeup by Lyssa W.

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REAL MOMENTS Emily + Chris MAY 25 , 2024 M K LO EFFLER PH OTOG R APHY

I’m a huge music buff so I had planned almost every song played, I created the playlists for the ceremony, happy hour and then reception. I had so much fun creating the playlists and the DJ was very supportive in letting me do so! Best advice we have to share? On your wedding day, do not do ANYTHING. Delegate delegate delegate. Your family & friends are more than happy to do anything you need that day. It should be about you and your spouse! Also, from the moment you wake up, put your phones on silent and put them away!”

Details VENUE: Barnett on Washington CATERER: Hendri’s Events +

Graze Craze Charcuterie Boards & Boxes FLORIST: The Flower Lab by Belli Fiori for the brides-

maids bouquets and groomsman’s boutonnieres. My bouquet was my MIL’s that she used at her wedding. Table flower arrangements were made by her sister CAKE + DESSERTS: Sarah’s Cake Shop MUSIC: Elite Pro DJ GOWN: Essense of Australia, The Ultimate Bride STL FORMALWEAR: St. Louis Suit Co. HAIR & MAKEUP: Looks by Lisa

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REAL MOMENTS Alexandra + Sean J U N E 6 , 2025 N ICH O LE PAR K PH OTOG R APH Y

Alex comes from a large family in St. Louis, whose central gathering location is Alex’s grandparents’ home in Compton Heights, which they affectionately refer to as the “Big House.” Many of Alex’s aunts, uncles, and cousins have gotten married at the Big House, and we knew that we wanted to continue this tradition. So, we got married down the street at the Piper Palm House and then celebrated with a reception at the Big House. We wanted every part of our wedding to reflect our love of community and family. Our wedding planning was done by Sean’s mother who has a wedding planning business based out of Milwaukee, our catering was done by Alex’s cousin (a talented chef with a catering business in the Northeast U.S.), and we were officiated by Alex’s cousin Beaux. Alex’s brother, David, was the “Best Brother” in our wedding party and Sean’s twin-sister, Caroline, was the “Best Sister” in the wedding. It truly felt like a family affair. The days leading up to the wedding were a flurry of aunts, cousins, mothers, siblings, and friends helping to decorate and prepare us and the Big House for our big day.”

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Details CEREMONY LOCATION:

The Piper Palm House RECEPTION VENUE: Bride's Grandparents'

Home in Compton Heights CATERER:

Matthew Houghton, Cousin of the Bride WEDDING PLANNER: Morr Events,

Mother of the Groom FLORAL ARRANGEMENTS: Morr Events PERSONAL FLOWERS:

Milwaukee Flower Co. CAKE: The Cakery Bakery RECEPTION MUSIC: Vincent Varvel TABLE LINENS AND NAPKINS:

Windy City Linen RECEPTION CHAIRS, STRING LIGHTING:

Decorum Events. St Louis TENTING, TABLES, ALL TABLEWARE:

Premier Rentals PAPER GOODS:

Invitiations by Hall Creative Co. Day of stationery: Bride and family OFFICIANT: Beaux Watwood. Cousin of the Bride GOWN: Jenny Yoo, Jenny Yoo Chicago Bridal Boutique FORMALWEAR: Nicholas Joseph HAIR + MAKEUP:

Emily Miller Makeup & Hair

SPRING/SUMMER 2026 • BRIDESTL.COM

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REAL MOMENTS Brea + Grace J U N E 20, 2025 IVO RY G ROVE PH OTOG R APHY

The best advice we would give to couples planning their wedding? It's your day, do everything how you want it!”

Details VENUE: Sunset Bluffs FLORIST: Arranged by the brides CAKE: Mid Town Market MUSIC: DJ Coleman FORMALWEAR: Macy's, shoes by Nike HAIR & MAKEUP: Suido Bride

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REAL MOMENTS Etinosa + Richard J U N E 14 , 2025 ESTH ER MAK AU PH OTOG R APHY

Be intentional and remeber that this is your day and the start to the rest of your lives together. It’s so easy to get overwhelmed by opinions, trends, or the pressure of perfection, but the most meaningful weddings are the ones that feel like the couple, not a production. We waited to see each other until i was walking down the aisle. My now husband really wanted to have that as a core memory for himself. We also decided to do runway seating and it was the best decision. No one or their phones were in my way walking down the aisle. I knew people wanted to document the day and I wanted to provide the best arrangment for that. At the end of our vows we did our secret handshake in front of everyone and that was truly my favorite part of our wedding.”

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Details VENUE: Marriott St. Louis Grand CATERER: Komfort's Kitchen WEDDING PLANNER:

The Coda’s Collective FLORIST: Roses + Mint CAKE: Helfers Pastries CEREMONY MUSIC: DJ Bola Maintain RECEPTION MUSIC: Spin Society MC: The Xtreme Xperience RENTALS: TPI STL PHOTOBOOTH: Complete Wedding Stl TRANSPORTATION: St. Louis Trolleys VIDEOGRAPHER: STIL Cinematic GOWN: Pronovias FORMALWEAR: Men's Warehouse HAIR: Canesha, The Brides Beautician MAKEUP: KJ Perkins, KJ Perkins Beauty

SPRING/SUMMER 2026 • BRIDESTL.COM

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REAL MOMENTS Christine + Colin MARCH 8 , 2025 LISA M E YER PH OTOG R APHY

Some of our favorite moments of the day. Colin driving our entire wedding party around in a giant van for photos set the tone for the day, especially when it led to that iconic shot under the Arch. Our friend Andrew officiated, with two of our closest friends sharing meaningful readings that felt so personal to us. We honored our moms with flowers and saved a seat with a Mizzou hat in memory of Colin’s dad, a moment that meant everything. The wedding party walked in to the full VSQ version of “I Want It That Way,” building the anticipation perfectly. Our friend Cody performed a live rendition of our song, ‘This Must Be the Place,’ and later Colby absolutely brought the house down with his Michael Bolton ‘Soul Provider’ performance.”

Details VENUE: Sognare on Lafayette CATERER: Hollyberry Catering WEDDING PLANNER: Renee Joshu of Weddings

by Renee with Day of Coordinator, Jaime Brink FLORIST: An Affair To Remember CAKE + DESSERTS: Celebrating Life Cake

Boutique and Donut Drive In MUSIC: DJ Greg PHOTOBOOTH: Fujifilm mini polaroid

camera for the photo guest book GOWN: Bestow Bridal in Austin, TX FORMALWEAR: Capra and Cavelli BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES: each chose their own HAIR & MAKEUP: Looks by Lisa, Lisa Lipsitz

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REAL MOMENTS Emma + Maxwell MARCH 29, 2025 TAM M I C AM P PH OTOG R APHY

We incorporated so many small, meaningful details that felt like little pieces of us. I’m incredibly close to my brothers and couldn’t imagine getting married without them by my side, so they wore pink suits and served as my ‘bridesmates.’ They even wore the same tie I wear all the time, while my bridesmaids wore the heel version of the shoes I wear daily, tiny nods to my life woven into the day. Our seating chart was made from custom playing cards to honor my husband’s family, who absolutely love card games, and the decals featured bows and bees to represent me. When it comes to making design choices, try to let go of the discourse around ‘trendy’ versus ‘timeless.’ A wedding is a snapshot of a moment in your life—let it look and feel like that moment. If you love something, lean into it. Mason jar it up, queen! Bring on the Princess Di sleeves! It’s your day. Do what you want how you want.”

Details VENUE: Stifel Theatre WEDDING PLANNER: Altar’d Events,

Allissa Reimer FLORIST: Belli Fiori TABLETOP RENTALS:

Styled & Staged STL CAKE: The Cakery Bakery MUSIC: Spin Society, DJ Chris Brown RENTALS: Decorum STATIONERY: On Three Designs WATERCOLOR PORTRAITS:

Cloud Studio, Elysia King MIDNIGHT SNACKS:

Imo’s Pizza + Donut Drive-In TRANSPORTATION: STL Crew Shuttle BRIDAL GOWN: Isabelle by Kim Kassas, Jaxon James Couture GROOM + GROOMSMEN FORMALWEAR:

Men’s Warehouse BRIDESMAIDS: Victoria Beckham BRIDESMATES: Indochino HAIR & MAKEUP: The Artist Edit

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A LOVE STORY FIT FOR ROYALTY Catherine Rhodes Photography

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T A H T C I S U M OU Y S E V O M

How to create a wedding soundtrack that feels as true and memorable as your love story.

he first notes of a song can bring you back to a particular time or

that reminds you of a concert you attended together? Add it to the playlist.

place. A road trip singalong. Closing down the bar in college. Slow

Remember a song that brings you back to the time when you first started

dancing with your fiancé for the first time. These songs make up

dating? Put it on the playlist. Don’t worry about how or if the songs fit

the soundtrack of your relationship and should be the hits of your

together. “Pick songs you love. It doesn’t have to be a dance song to have a

wedding as well.

place in your day. We work with couples to find ways to include the music

“It’s important to us that our clients understand their day is about

they want, whether it is during the cocktail hour, dinner, or the reception.

them. The soundtrack for their day should be as unique as they are,” says

Each part of the day has a different vibe and we want to personalize that

Scott Washington, owner of TKO DJs. So how do you make that happen?

for each couple,” says Washington.

“Music is such an important part of how you feel in the moment as it is

Tony Volkman, President of Millennium Productions, tells couples to

happening. You should give your song choices as much thought as the

keep two things in mind when making their playlist. “First, think about

other details of your wedding,” says Nick Garcia, Marketing Manager and

music you connect with and is meaningful to your core circle. Second, try

DJ with Complete Music.

to find a nice blend of styles and genres that will appeal to all age groups,”

One easy way to start is by using a digital music service that both of

says Volkman. Most wedding music professionals offer online planning

you can access to build a potential playlist for your reception. Hear a song

tools to help spark ideas. “For couples struggling, I advise them to think

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©L TO R: SPECTRUM BAND, COMPLETE WEDDINGS + EVENTS

By Amy Zimmerman

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M U S I C T H AT M OV E S YO U “We are there to support the couple and can handle requests with discretion. We won’t play a song request that is well outside of the couple’s suggested playlist or inappropriate,” says Volkman. Couples who want guest input on their song list may ask for requests via the RSVP card. “But don’t ask them what song they want to hear at your wedding; ask them what song will get them up and dancing at your wedding. The couple can add songs to their playlist based on those answers to make people feel that they are a part of the reception,” says Washington. While music for the reception may be the first thing that comes to mind, musical choices begin with the ceremony. And you don’t have to choose GOLD STANDARD MUSICIANS

TKO DJS

the typical classical and religious songs that are traditionally associated with weddings. Johanna Ballou is the Founder and Owner of Gold instrumental combos for wedding ceremonies, cocktail hour, and dinner. She encourages couples to consider the mood they want to set. “Do they want soft, romantic vibe or more of a celebratory,

THE MANHASSET STRING QUARTET

SPECTRUM BAND

garden party vibe? Do they want classical music or popular music played in the classical style? Some know they want it to sound like Bridgerton.

about their guests and songs that made the

lovey-dovey, just special to you and the person

Those answers help guide us through our song

soundtrack of their experiences together in high

you are sharing the song with. Think back to

choices,” she says.

school or college,” says Garcia.

your childhood. Is there a song that reminds

Couples typically choose the songs they want

you of that person? We all have moments in our

for the processional, the bride’s entrance, and

professionals do their job. They know how to

lives that are defined by music. Your life has a

the recessional. The prelude and postlude can be

get your guests on the dance floor and when to

soundtrack. It doesn’t have to be a popular song;

a combination of songs that set the ambiance.

slow it down. “It’s a gift to your guests to have

it just has to be meaningful to both of you. Don’t

Marilyn Humiston, Founder of Manhasset String

this fun evening and music is a big part of that.

do the generic cookie cutter thing and regret it.

Quartet, works with couples to tailor live string

We are doing everything we can to get guests up

Make a personal choice,” says Washington.

quartet music for their wedding. “I typically start

on the dance floor and get them involved in the

Volkman tells couples struggling to select

Once you have song suggestions, let the music

with the songs for the bride and the wedding

party. We are able to get that guest you never

special dance songs to consider movie

party. Then move on to the other parts of the

thought would be on the dance floor out there.

soundtracks. “I was working with a couple

ceremony. Do they want something classical or

That’s when you know everyone is having a

recently and the bride’s favorite movie she

are they looking for more Game of Thrones type

great time enjoying the music and celebrating,”

remembered watching with her father was

music? Are they Disney fans? We can weave a

says Sean Scales, Bassist and Booking and

Beauty and the Beast. We did a custom mix

variety of songs into different parts of the day,”

Business Manager with Spectrum Band.

of songs from the movie for their dance,” he

she says. For the cocktail hour, couples typically

The special dance songs, including the first

says. Along with the songs and styles of music

want popular tunes or upbeat classical music.

dance, the mother/son dance, and the father/

you like, it is important for couples to tell their

The main goal is to make it fun.

daughter dance provide another opportunity

musical professionals what they don’t like. Tell

In the end, trust your vendors and

for the couple to play meaningful songs that

them if there is a particular genre of music or

communicate with them throughout

are unique to these relationships. Don’t search

artist you do not want to hear at your wedding

the planning process. They are wedding

online for the best songs to use. Put some

but don’t focus too much on what you don’t

professionals and their goal is to take your

thought into it. “I challenge couples not to

want. Typically, your playlist will naturally guide

vision and make it a reality. “Every couple

conform to the stereotypical wedding dance

the music toward the styles you prefer.

is unique and there is no reason why the

songs. This is your day and your chance to make a statement with a song. It doesn’t have to be 140

BRIDESTL.COM • SPRING/SUMMER 2026

Couples should also discuss whether or not they want to take song requests from guests.

soundtrack of your day should be any less unique,” says Washington.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: ©GOLD STANDARD MUSICIANS, ©JOAN FISHER, ©SPECTRUM BAND, ©THE MANHASSET STRING QUARTET

Standard Musicians, a company that provides live

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TEMMTATIONS

Sweetest The

Part of the Night

Today’s sweets are interactive, intentional, and unforgettable.

nce upon a time, wedding dessert meant one thing: a white,

INTERACTIVE DESSERTS AND DANCE-FLOOR TREATS

tiered cake. But in today’s St. Louis weddings, sweets are

For Alexis Cooper of Coop’s Cotton Candy, spinning one of her many

more than a tradition. They are entertainment, décor, and

customizable flavors when the dancing begins adds an extra touch of

storytelling rolled into one. From cotton candy carts and ice

whimsy and joy.

cream bikes to buttercream masterpieces and dessert grazing

“It is not just dessert. It is an experience,” Cooper shared. “As soon as

tables, local bakers and dessert artists are turning sugar into an experience.

someone walks away with a cone, everyone around them reaches out for

Part of what makes the sweetest part of the night truly unforgettable is

a piece. It creates this playful, shared moment.” Cooper’s signature cotton

making dessert an interactive part of the evening.

candy spun onto glow sticks makes for the sweetest dance floor prop. “I

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©MIKE CASSAMITIS PHOTOGRAPHY

By Megan Rubenstein

*Photo credit to Arndt Photo & Cinema

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T H E SW E E T E S T PA R T O F T H E N I G H T

COVERED IN CHOCOLATE

Italian cakes,” O’Neil shared. “We have also done donut bars with plain donuts topped with icings and sprinkles.” Another way to combine tradition with new experiences is bringing the guests into the cake cutting. “I have had a few weddings where couples put a cake at every single table,” said a different flavor, and when the couple did their cake cutting, the guests all cut theirs too. It was

COOP'S COTTON CANDY

like a mini celebration at every table. Guests loved love watching guests dance around the floor

talking about their picks. It is something they will

it. They could walk around, try different flavors,

with glowing cotton candy cones,” she shared.

really remember from the night.”

and it turned dessert into an experience.”

PUSHING TRADITION WITH NEW EXPERIENCES

AUTHENTICITY AND PERSONAL MEANING

walks away with cotton candy more flock to grab

Making their special day one to remember is a

While making dessert an experience can be an

some of their own, Katie Winkleman of Sling “N”

priority for many couples, and Lyndsay O’Neil

exciting and memorable aspect of the night,

Scoops shared the same sentiment about their ice

with Cake House Designs shared that pushing

what truly matters is making sure it is authentic

cream carts and bikes. “We call it the ultimate ice

against tradition can truly make a wedding feel

to the couple.“It is not about fitting into a list

cream experience because it is really interactive,”

“one of a kind.”

of desserts,” Jamie Kohrmann of Covered in

“When I spin cotton candy on the glow sticks, the whole thing lights up. It is such a fun visual.” Just as Cooper noted that when one guest

Winkleman shared. “The first person picks a

“We do interactive dessert experiences,

Chocolate shared. “It is about saying, ‘What do

combo and then everyone else wants the same

like walking around making fresh cannoli

you love? What is meaningful to you?’ and then

thing. It is not just dessert. It is entertainment.

or letting the couple add fruit to their cake

making it happen.” Couples are encouraged

Guests are laughing, trying new combinations,

during the cutting, similar to the trending

to think outside of the box these days, with

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BRIDESTL.COM • SPRING/SUMMER 2026

TOP: ©COVERED IN CHOCOLATE, BOTTOM: ©COOP'S COTTON CANDY

Makenzie Keiling of 3:14 Cakes. “Each one had

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T H E SW E E T E S T PA R T O F T H E N I G H T Kohrmann adding, “We do not give couples a menu. They tell us what they want.” Michael Temm with Temmtations by Wedding Wonderland noted that it is their role as bakers and decorators to take couples’ inspiration photos and “intertwine them with their story and family history to create something personal.” “One bride grew up baking orange chiffon cake with her mom, so we recreated that same flavor for her wedding,” Temm shared. “That kind of connection makes the cake truly special.”

FLAVORS, FIRST DATES, AND STORYTELLING Another way of customizing the wedding dessert is tying it to a special moment in the couple’s journey together, whether it is recreating a first date or just picking something they love to share together. “Some mix root beer and vanilla for a root beer float flavor, or strawberry and cheesecake for strawberry cheesecake,” Cooper shared. “It is fun to make something personal, like recreating their first date at a diner.” Outside of flavors, decorating the desserts can add an additional layer of personalization. “We have an artist on staff who hand paints sugar cookies,” O’Neil shared. “She has done couples’ pets, portraits, monograms, you name it. It is such a fun way to bring personality into the dessert display.” Along with telling a couple’s personal story, the desserts can also simply reflect the season the wedding takes place. “For winter

CAKE HOUSE DESIGN

velvet, or spearmint chocolate chip,” Winkleman shared. “It is fun to choose flavors that match the season or the color palette.” And the packaging can make just as much of an impact. “I do custom labels too,” Cooper added. “Some couples put their wedding monogram or a thank you message on the packaging, or even a photo of their pet as a little gift from their dog or cat.”

DESIGN, DÉCOR, AND STATEMENT DISPLAYS “We work one on one to design the custom cups. Some couples give me their wedding colors or florals, and I will design a monogram to match,” Winkleman added. “Others want their THE CAKERY BAKERY

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BRIDESTL.COM • SPRING/SUMMER 2026

engagement photo, their initials, or even just a fun phrase like ‘Scoops of Love.’ Every cup is different

TOP: ©BAILEY MARIE PHOTOGRAPHY, BOTTOM: ©LPHOTOGRAPHIE

weddings, couples love peppermint bark, red

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T H E SW E E T E S T PA R T O F T H E N I G H T

3:14 CAKES

VARIETY, NOSTALGIA, AND GUEST FAVORITES “I have seen couples do cinnamon rolls, ice cream, cookies, whatever their favorite dessert is,” Keiling shared. “It is fun because they are making it their own. It does not have to be cake only anymore.” “Dessert tables are great because they please everyone,” Kohrmann shared. “Not everyone likes the same thing, and this way, there is something for all ages.” “Cupcakes are definitely having a little

SLING N' SCOOPS

resurgence lately,” Frank quipped. “There is “One thing I always tell couples: leave your

special.” “You can have cookies, gooey butter

Indeed, the look of the dessert can be nearly

cake out,” Temm emphasized. “Too often, caterers

cake, or other sweets, but cupcakes are perfect

as impactful as the taste. Dessert does not just

take it away right after the cutting to make their

for when people still look for that bite of cake,”

serve as an after-dinner treat, but a design

lives easier. But couples spend thousands on these

she added. “Even if couples go for modern dessert

feature. “The display itself becomes part of the

cakes. Let your guests enjoy it, take photos, and

tables or grazing stations, having a little cake

décor,” Kohrmann explained. “It is a piece of

actually see it. Bring back the symbolism and the

element, whether it is a tiered cake or cupcakes,

art at your wedding.”

moment.” “Smaller table cakes can be gorgeous as

feels like a nod to tradition,” Frank shared. “What

part of your décor,” Keiling noted. “One couple

is wonderful about cakes right now is that there is

visual elements to make the cake or desserts

surrounded each one with flowers, and another

no one way to do it. It is all about what fits your

cohesive with the wedding’s aesthetic,” O’Neil

used them as table numbers. It is multipurpose.”

day and your story.”

shared. “We specialize in grazing tables where

“I still make tons of classic white cakes,

all the dessert pieces melt together into one big,

but I am seeing more couples embrace color

THE TRADITION LIVES ON

visually appealing table. We elevate it with stands

lately,” Keiling added. “People are being more

“That moment when the couple cuts the cake, it

but mix everything together, so it is all right in

intentional about their palettes and carrying

is iconic,” Frank emphasized. “It is a photo that

front of guests. It creates a drop-dead gorgeous

them through every detail, including the cake.

has been in every family album for generations.”

look compared to a standard display.”

One bride embroidered her own table numbers

“I think people still love the tradition of

and totally personal to the couple.”

“We consider patterns, stationery, and other

with floral designs and asked me to replicate

cake cutting,” Keiling added. “It is such a sweet

BIG CAKES, COLOR, AND MODERN NOSTALGIA

those same flowers in the icing on her cake.

moment, even if couples do not necessarily want a

It was such a simple way to tie everything

giant eight tiered cake anymore.”

“A large wedding cake is a beautiful way to anchor

together and make it personal.”

“At the end of the day, it is your wedding,”

the room,” Erica Frank of The Cakery shared.

“With the resurgence of vintage style piping

Keiling said. “There is no right way to do dessert.

“Whether it is in the center of the dance floor or

and ornate designs, those big, elegant cakes are

Whether that is a big tiered cake, a single heart

greeting guests as they walk into the reception, it is

having their moment again,” Frank added.

shaped one, or a mix of cookies and ice cream, it

something everyone gathers around.” 148

BRIDESTL.COM • SPRING/SUMMER 2026

should feel like you.”

LEFT: ©SLING N' SCOOPS, RIGHT: ©3:14 CAKES

something fun and casual about it, but it still feels

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BRIDESTL.COM • SPRING/SUMMER 2026

Weddings Neighborhood in your

From Bluffs and Rivers to Sprawling Landscapes: Your Dream Wedding Is Across the River in Illinois By Denise P. McGrail

ust across the Mississippi

MAKE HEADLINES AT THE INK HOUSE

River from St. Louis, the

Tucked away in the heart of Edwardsville’s downtown

Metro East offers couples

district is The Ink House, a rare gem that’s formerly

a captivating blend of

the home of the city’s local newspaper. Today, with

rustic charm and urban

its exposed red brick walls and lofty ceilings, it’s a

sophistication to say “I do.” Communities like

stylishly renovated event space offering “a balance of

Belleville, Columbia, Edwardville, and Highland

historical significance and contemporary charm.”

have an impressive array of options, from renovated

Step inside The Ink House and discover The Press

barn venues and timeless historic mansions to scenic

Room, which boasts nearly 3,500 square feet to use for

riverside overlooks for your wedding and all the

your ceremony, your reception, or both. There’s plenty

festivities leading up to the big day.

of space for your guests to enjoy a cocktail (or two) at

Your dream wedding might just be a short drive away on the other side of the river!

the Art Deco-inspired bar area or strike a pose at the inhouse photo booth.

SPRING/SUMMER 2026 • BRIDESTL.COM

151

W E D D I N G S I N YO U R N E I G H BO R H O O D to seamlessly host every part of their special day from ceremony to reception. The Goldman-Kuenz Sculpture Park, with over 80 acres of wood areas, tranquil ponds, and wideopen green space, functions as a breathtaking choice for an outdoor ceremony. The 60-plus contemporary, large-scale sculptures and serene water features create a dramatic, yet surprisingly intimate setting that is inarguably memorable. The modern art pieces and the endless expanse of trails and natural backdrops turn the most simple photographs into timeless, artistic photographs. The sculpture park is one of the most popular places for wedding photography in the area, from engagement photos to day-of-wedding photos. Cedarhurst is also home to the Mitchell Museum. The sophisticated indoor space complements outdoor ceremonies in the sculpture park. The marble columns create a dramatic entrance, welcoming guests into the Grand Corridor with its soaring ceiling. Once INK HOUSE

inside, guests will find themselves led into the Performance Hall, a spacious, modern addition ideal for large-scale events, featuring ample room for a seated dinner (up to 250) and a lively dance floor, all illuminated by a full wall of windows overlooking the natural beauty of the grounds. Your guests can enjoy cocktail hour outdoors on the back patio while the sun sets around them. Another Illinois gem, located in Columbia, is The Falls Reception and Conference Center, set against the backdrop of a cascading waterfall and forest. Ideal for wedding receptions and engagement dinners, The Falls exceeds every expectation, ensuring a stress-free time for all. All you and your guests have to do is show up

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If 3,500 square feet isn’t enough, check out

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in the romanticism of the moment in the urban

aesthetic, complete with a stunning floral wall

in-house catering packages, which include a full-

outdoor courtyard.

mural and plush pink velvet headboards.

service bar, promise a mouthwatering experience. part of Illinois south of the Chicago suburbs, is

that features eclectic suites ideal for the newly

ART, HISTORY, AND NATURE COLLIDE IN ILLINOIS

married couple’s wedding night or even out-

Eighty miles east of St. Louis is the Cedarhurst

on farmland. Family farms make up much of

of-town guests who enjoy out-of-the-ordinary

Center for the Arts in Mt. Vernon, Illinois.

the state, with Old Monroe Distilling Co. in

accommodations. At this eight-room hotel,

The property’s natural beauty, architectural

Columbia being no different. Owners Adam and

discover the urban ambiance of the Modern

elegance, and artistic inspiration allow couples

Laura Stumpf grow the grains that are part of the

and let The Falls’ staff cater to every need. The

One thing to know about Columbia, or any

Next door to The Ink House is the Urban Collective Boutique Hotel, a boutique hotel

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that you can’t travel far without finding yourself

ALL PHOTOS COURTESY OF EACH VENUE

Falls’ highly skilled Event Coordinator leaves

9th Street Abbey

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W E D D I N G S I N YO U R N E I G H BO R H O O D ceilings, and marble accents. The Beall Mansion is ideally suited for couples who want to feel as if they’ve stepped into Gilded Age romance and don't need a large-scale venue. The midsize venue can comfortably accommodate up to 100 guests and is suitable for elopements, bridal showers, or rehearsal dinners. For couples planning more traditional receptions on the larger size, the Bellecourt Manor in Belleville offers space and full-service packages that cater to classic wedding visions. With over 10,000 square feet of easily adaptable space, you can dream big! BEALL MANSION

OLD MONROE DISTILLERY

NOSTALGIA AND FAMILY TRADITIONS RUN DEEP IN BELLEVILLE When you think of Eckert's Farm in Belleville, the first thing that might come to mind are seasonal activities like peach and apple picking, hayrides, and cut-your-own Christmas trees. Steeped in tradition and nostalgia, Eckert's has been a destination for family-friendly activities for generations. With such deep roots, it’s no wonder couples often choose the Cider Shed at Eckert's as the location for bridal, bachelorette,

ECKERT’S FARM

THE SCHWARTZ BARN

and bachelor parties. Amanda Morgan, Marketing Director of Eckert’s Farm, shares, “The Cider Shed at

grain-to-glass distillery on the eighth-generation

barn has provided elegant ceremony and reception

Eckert's Farm in Belleville, Illinois, is where

family farm and use them to create spirits that

spaces since hosting its first wedding in 2014.

farm-fresh flavor meets laid-back fun!”

truly reflect the taste of the region, and it’s the

Whether you envision a big country wedding or

Morgan happily shares. “Our Cider Shed is a

Bourbon Ballroom at Old Monroe that delivers

something more intimate and quiet, Schwartz

3,500-square-foot venue with a full bar and

a beautiful enmeshing of tradition, charm, and

Barn is the picture-perfect location for any couple

dining room inside and a covered outdoor

elegance to create unforgettable weddings.

who wants to get married amid wide open, green

pavilion, bar, and live music stage. We serve a

landscapes where the sky seems bigger than life

specialty food menu, beer, seasonal cocktails

and the stars dot the sky like confetti.

that rotate with Eckert's fruit, and our complete

special is our direct connection to Old Monroe

line of handcrafted hard cider from fruits grown

Distilling Co., where it all began,” says Candace

on the farm. Hard ciders include Well Red

Old Monroe. “Our roots in the distillery allow

CAPTURE THE ESSENCE OF A BYGONE ERA

couples to enjoy a truly unique experience! From

Historic towns like Alton and Belleville offer

apple), Peach and Quiet (peach apple), and

thoughtfully curated bar options to exclusive

timeless romance with places like the Beall

Roadcider (apple). Pair your drink with our

opportunities like a single barrel pick to create

Mansion on Alton’s “Millionaire’s Row.” What

farm-inspired menu, featuring shareables, fresh

a personalized spirit. We then craft signature

makes the Beall Mansion the ideal place for

salads, hearty power bowls, and irresistible

cocktails around it for your guests to enjoy,

wedding festivities is its history: it was built in

desserts ... [and] offers an unforgettable location

making your celebration as distinctive and

1903 by railroad baron Z.B. Job as a wedding gift

for bridal, bachelorette, or bachelor parties."

memorable as their story.”

for his son and his bride, Mary Drummond, who

Donjon, Venue Sales and Events Director at

(strawberry apple), Berried Alive (blackberry

south of St. Louis, tucked away on 53 acres.

to feel right at home in the elegant bed-and-

RIVERSIDE ROMANCE AND BLUFFTOP ADVENTURE IN GRAFTON

Located in Highland, Illinois, an area known for

breakfast that feels like a private European

A beautiful wedding celebration calls for a

its Swiss heritage (and a few UFO sightings!), the

estate with its crystal chandeliers, 12-foot

setting that is both romantic and unique, and

Another memorable ceremony or reception

was the heiress to the Drummond Tobacco fortune.

location is The Schwartz Barn, forty-five minutes

Of course, you don’t have to be an heiress

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BRIDESTL.COM • SPRING/SUMMER 2026

ALL PHOTOS COURTESY OF EACH VENUE

“What makes The Bourbon Ballroom so

A CUSTOM HAT BAR EXPERIENCE for your special day events@inkandpatch.com inkandpatch.com 314.899.9860

Engagement Parties, Bridal & Couples Showers, Bachelorette & Bachelor Weekends, Rehearsal Dinners, Welcome Parties, Bridal Suite “Getting Ready”, Wedding Receptions & After Parties, Farewell Brunches, Destination Wedding Weekends & More.

Visit our Studio to design a sample hat and explore all our services. Call 314.899.9860 to schedule your visit. 400 Lemay Ferry Road, Suite 100, St. Louis, MO 63125 STLWB_260100_INKANDPATCHLLC_00636008.indd STLWB_260100_145_160.indd 155 1

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W E D D I N G S I N YO U R N E I G H BO R H O O D wear. Where can you find a curated, stress-free, and private experience to fall in love with the gown of your dreams? Bridal Parlour, of course! Located in Shiloh, Bridal Parlour offers modern gowns for the romantic bride and a private experience. “One of the top advantages of our shop is the exclusivity of designers to the region as well as private, intimate appointments where the bride is the only one in the store. The gowns we carry have a modern, fresh twist that lean classic to connect with many tastes of style,” explains Heather Craft of Bridal Parlour. The private wedding gown shopping experience means you get more personalized guidance and the space and time to find the right dress for you without feeling rushed. It’s

AERIES RESORT

an experience many people outside of larger cities like New York and Chicago don’t often Grafton, Illinois, delivers with its stunning

the central hub for adventure. It features the

get, but when they do the wedding dress

blend of riverside charm and picturesque bluffs.

Grafton SkyTour gondola ride that carries guests

shopping experience comes with more ease and

Located northwest of St. Louis along the scenic

up the bluffs for sweeping panoramic river views

less stress. Sometimes, with the sheer number of

Great River Road, Grafton’s claim to fame is its

that are a great way to relax the morning after

options in larger shops, saying yes to the dress

spectacular natural beauty as it sits right at the

the wedding. For the more adventurous guests,

can feel overwhelming.

confluence of the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers

the resort is also home to a zipline canopy.

and nestled beneath towering limestone bluffs.

Additionally, the historic charm of the town

their fun nature as well as ease of wear,” Craft

Often called the "Key West of the Midwest,"

provides simpler pleasures: guests can explore

told me. “Raised necklines have also made a

you’ll find venues with panoramic river views

local shops, tasting rooms, and riverfront bars,

huge comeback.” But which one is the right

and opportunities for a full weekend of engaging

or rent bikes and enjoy the scenic ride along

choice for you? Bridal Parlour’s goal is to help

activities for your guests. Whether you envision a

the path next to the river when the weather's

you understand the trends and find the gown

charming ceremony at a winery, a grand affair in

nice. During the winter months, Grafton is also

that fits your style. The shop carries dresses from

a historic lodge, or an adventurous itinerary for

famous for its bald eagle watching, a memorable

designers like Saint Bridal, Made with Love, and

your wedding party, Grafton never fails to deliver.

seasonal group activity that isn’t always part of

the Jenny Yoo Collection.

your average wedding facilities.

out: the Grafton Winery and Brewhaus and

You’ll also find plenty of cozy cottages and

Pere Marquette Lodge and Conference Center.

guest houses in Grafton like Tara Point Inn &

The Grafton Winery, with its Confluence Patio,

Cottages, where some of the most spectacular

YOUR LOCAL DESTINATION WEDDING IS JUST ACROSS THE RIVER

offers an intimate setting perfect for a welcome

sunset views in the Midwest happen. Grafton

The Metro East proves that you don't have to

party or dinner while providing dramatic

has a vibe that isn’t replicated anywhere else

venture far from the St. Louis area to find a

river and bluffs backdrops. Alternatively, the

in the region. Couples seeking a one-of-a-kind

truly unique and memorable setting for your

historic Pere Marquette Lodge and Conference

locale for weekend-wedding events find that

wedding. The region offers natural beauty

Center, built from limestone and massive

Grafton checks all the boxes.

and is rich in history and nostalgia. Whether

timbers, provides a grand, rustic atmosphere.

you envision a classic wedding at a historic

PRIVATE WEDDING DRESS SHOPPING IN THE METRO EAST

bed and breakfast, a laid-back celebration

can accommodate everything from a formal rehearsal dinner to a casual post-wedding

The Metro East has an abundance of venues and

surrounded by sculptures, the Metro East

brunch, all while guests enjoy the awe-inspiring

locations for the ceremony, reception, pre-wedding

ensures your wedding weekend will not only

architecture and the surrounding 8,000-acre

festivities, and photography, but there’s one thing

what you dreamed, but also stress-free and

state park of the same name.

we haven’t talked about yet: the wedding dress.

exciting for your guests.

Its on-site restaurant and various event rooms

Grafton makes it easy to turn a wedding into

No element of a wedding is more personal

a destination weekend, with Aerie's Resort being

or symbolic than the dress the bride chooses to

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BRIDESTL.COM • SPRING/SUMMER 2026

on sprawling farmland, or a modern affair

The perfect place to say "I do" is waiting, right across the river.

ALL PHOTOS COURTESY OF VENUE

For rehearsal dinners, two locations stand

“Slits have been very popular this year due to

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THE SOCIAL AFFAIR

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Menus Filled With Meaning The best menus start long before the wedding day. They are built from the flavors you love, the memories you carry, and the traditions that have shaped your families, coming together in a meal that reflects who you are.

©RACHEL MYERS PHOTOGRAPHY

by Beth von Behren

SPRING/SUMMER 2026 • BRIDESTL.COM

159

MENUS FILLED WITH MEANING be something as simple as ube - a purple sweet potato that is the most beautiful purple color that can be easily incorporated into a meat and potatoes midwestern dish.” Making a wedding meal memorable doesn’t have to be an international affair. With American couples, it may be more about how or where they met or how they got engaged. For one couple whose first date was at a pizza place, Kelly’s chef created mini-calzones as a late-night snack. “It’s amazing what you can do when you make comfort foods intentional,” Kelly said. One of Kelly’s client couples got engaged under the Eiffel Tower in Paris, and as the proposal was playing out, somebody was walking by and began to record the proposal on a smartphone. The couple didn’t know they were O+O HOSPITALITY

being filmed, but the stranger shared the video with them. “The engagement story was so deeply meaningful that we created a French menu for

ncorporating a family’s cultural customs

in 2020, when they needed a larger kitchen,

and traditions into a wedding allows the

she opened The Dogwood, a full-service events

bridal couple to honor their parents and

venue in The Grove, that also houses her offices

favorite things to do in her role as Director of

grandparents and make them a part of the

and catering kitchen.

Sales and Catering is to talk to wedding couples

ceremony itself. For example, in Jewish weddings, the groom will often stomp on

“We believe the wedding menu should reflect the bridal couple,” Kelly said. “That’s why we

them,” said Kelly. Tasha Irving of Butler’s Pantry says one of her

– and to listen to them. “The question I start with is - is there another

a wine glass wrapped in cloth, as a symbolic

don’t have set menus. Each person has different

nod to past suffering and the fragility of

tastes, a different upbringing, a different cultural

human relationships.

heritage. We want the menu to reflect them and

has an international family and ancestry, she

their families, not just something we’re putting

encourages them to tie their culture into the

in front of them and say pick A,B, or C.”

menu. This sometimes surprises the couple.

For couples of Nigerian descent, the “Tasting of the Four Elements” ritual, also referred to as the

culture we’re celebrating?” Tasha said. If she does discover that the bride or groom

“bitter root” ceremony, uses four distinct flavors

Kelly begins the menu planning process by

– spicy, sour, bitter, and sweet – to symbolize the

spending time with the couple, asking questions

said. “I love showing them how they can do

ups and downs of marriage. Today’s wedding

about their families, their engagement, and other

this. Maybe the appetizers incorporate a nod to

couples may also incorporate family recipes and

special moments in their life together so far.

their culture, or maybe it’s a late-night station

“They’re thinking it’s all or nothing,” Tasha

menus into meal planning for the celebration, to

“I ask them: What food means something to

that has banh mi [for a Vietnamese couple].

honor their ancestry and cultural heritage on the

you?” Kelly said. “What would really get you

What’s important is that they understand it’s

day they join together their families.

excited? We love when couples bring us family

not a hassle. If it’s something they’re excited

For Kelly Spencer, founder and CEO of The

recipes. We want to tie in cultural traditions.

about, we can do it.”

Social Affair, creating a wedding menu that is tied

Food is such a deeply personal expression of

to a couple’s cultural traditions is second nature.

who the two people are. We believe the wedding

bride really wanted to tie in their Hindu culture

menu should reflect them.”

to the wedding meal but didn’t want an outside

“This is how we’ve always done it, and it’s what we’re known for,” Kelly said. “We turn meals into

For a Filipino Indian couple, her chef created

Tasha cites the time an Indian mother of the

caterer. Tasha assured her the chef and crew

a memories. That’s what food is. It sparks emotions

a lumpia for the meal, which is a kind of thin

could do it. They worked with the mother to get

and memories. We turn that into something

eggroll. It was something specific to the bride

her recipe for a vegetable korma just right.

extraordinary, delicious, and unforgettable.”

who had grown eating them.

“We went back and forth,” Tasha said. “She

Kelly founded her catering company in 2009,

“It’s a way to set the mood and tone for

gave us wonderful feedback on the spices. One

and from the beginning she worked with couples

the guests,” Kelly said. “And it’s a great way

of the best feelings at the end of the event is

to create customized menus. She is proud of how

to make cultural dishes approachable to the

when the client tells you everything was perfect

her company has never created the same menu

Midwest palate. It’s nothing crazy or out of the

and the food was delicious.”

twice. Eventually, The Social Affair evolved into

ordinary, but it makes the guests want to try

a full-service wedding and event business, and

it, which makes the couple feel special. It can

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At O+O Hospitality in Webster, Casey Fechter, Director of Events, described how the event

L TO R: ©MIKE CASSIMATIS PHOTOGRAPHY, ©JESS AND JENN PHOTOGRAPHY

BUTLER'S PANTRY

Photograph by @bluewillowphotovideo

Plan a perfect wedding Welcome to 612North, situated in the heart of historic Laclede's Landing in St. Louis, Missouri with breathtaking views. Built in 1882, the venue features three distinct event spaces—VUE, ARC, and KOR—each with its own unique style and charm. Blending the elegance of modern design with the rich history of the building, 612North offers an unparalleled dining experience. Indulge in a mouthwatering menu crafted from only the finest quality ingredients, all expertly prepared by our talented culinary team. Whether you are planning a wedding, corporate event, private party, or any other special occasion, 612North is the perfect choice. Our versatile spaces can accommodate any group size, and our dedicated staff will work with you to create an unforgettable experience. Come experience the magic of 612North, where modern meets history and the finest dining awaits.

FOR MORE INFO: 612north.com @612north

STLWB_260100_161_176.indd 161

(314)899-0612

events@612north.com

12/4/25 12:3 PM

MENUS FILLED WITH MEANING with us - or they had a related milestone our food reminded them of,” Events Director Madi Keller said. “Maybe they got engaged in Italy and Pastaria’s Roman-style Italian menu is just like what they had there. The throughline in all of these instances is that our food plays a big part in sparking these memories!” Madi’s planning process for couples is to sit with them in the restaurant they have booked, to hear about their vision for the menu and what they want to evoke out of it. Do they want a more elevated, formal feel for the evening with an individually plated meal? Or are they wanting for guests to feel more relaxed and intimate, with a family-style dinner?

PASTARIA

“One of my favorite events of the past few years was a wedding we hosted at Pastaria,” Another time, they had a groom who wanted

Madi said. “The couple had been dining at

an arepa, which is a type of South American

Pastaria since they first started dating in high

flatbread that can be eaten alone or stuffed with

school! Their entire ethos for the wedding was

whole concept of the events team was to mimic

a filling. The O+O chef researched the recipe,

to share spaces and menus that were special

the main dining room as much as possible. In the

and the groom told her it “tasted like home.”

to them with their friends and family. They

restaurant, our menu changes consistently. We

“It can be a challenging thing to do,” Casey

have some staple items, but otherwise the menu

said. “We are lucky because we’re tied to the

dinner reservation at Pastaria – but with 120

changes. We work with farmers and vendors

restaurant and can do a lot of these things on an

guests! Guests got to enjoy a family-style dinner

that are local so we reap the benefits of what

economy of scale. No kitchen wants to be making

with their favorite pastas – with special menu

they have. We may get a call that says I have 20

the same kind of food over and over again.”

notes about how the bride and groom had been

their restaurant’s approach. “Nobody does what we do,” Casey said. “Our

pounds of sea bass available, and that will go on the menu for the next few days.”

O+O can also create a fully vegan menu or a

wanted the entire wedding to feel like a regular

enjoying them for years at Pastaria.”

menu that is sensitive to a predominant dietary

For their wedding clients, a similar process

restriction. “Everybody deserves to feel they are

plays out. They don’t use a set menu, or a “Pick

a priority and not an afterthought,” Casey said.

The Social Affair

from “A,B,C.” They work with wedding clients

“Every person gets their own meal.”

The Dogwood

based on the time of year they plan to get

Gerard Craft, Chef and owner of the Niche

married and then create a seasonal menu.

Food Group, which operates nine restaurants

4308 Manchester Ave., St. Louis, MO 63110 314-349-1242 | info@tsastl.com

“We have a four-page document we have them

locally and in Nashville, has recently moved

fill out,” said Casey. “It asks what kinds of cuisines

into weddings. Their menus are chef-driven,

Butler’s Pantry

do you lean towards, what’s your go-to date night

and couples come to them for that rather than

The Coronado / 18Rails / The Reverie

spot, or if you are cooking at home on a Tuesday,

going to a hotel where the menu selections

1414 Park Ave., St. Louis, MO 63104

what are you making? Our staff will study their

may be narrower.

314-664-7680

answers, and then our executive chef, Grace

“Our event planners work with them to create

Dinsmoor, creates the menu based on what they

a warm space, reflective of the couple,” Gerard

O+O Hospitality Group

answered. No two wedding menus for us are alike.”

said. “One of our spaces is in a garden center,

Olive + Oak / The Clover & the Bee / O+O

with an outdoor kitchen, that has the feel of an

Pizza / Perennial on Lockwood / O+O Events

upscale farm dinner or a European venue”

Info@oohosp.com

Casey described the time a groom was Colombian, and he mentioned maybe having an ice box cake. He sent her his grandmother’s

Out of that foundation, the Niche Food

recipe, and the O+O chef was able to create it for

Group is able to provide a particular focus on

Niche Food Group

him. Another time, both the bride’s family and

cuisine by concept.

Bowood by Niche / Brasserie by Niche

the groom’s family prided themselves on making

“I don’t see a ton of unique requests for

ExPat BBQ / Fordo’s Killer Pizza / Kitchen

a great plum cake, so they gave O+O the recipe,

specific custom cultural dishes, but we do have

Bar None of the Above / Pastaria Deli &

and Casey pulled together a dueling plum cake

clients who approach us because they have a

Wine, Pastaria St. Louis / Porano

for dessert. “They got to taste-test them against

fond memory either tied specifically to one of

nichefoodgroup.com

each other,” she said. “That was a really fun one.”

our restaurants - maybe they had their first date

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BRIDESTL.COM • SPRING/SUMMER 2026

©BACKCOUNTRY BOHEMIANS PHOTOGRAPHY, DEVIN LARSON

venue part of the Olive + Oak business mimics

Only at the MAC

Step into a world where timeless elegance meets modern romance at the Missouri Athletic Club. Let the splendor of the historic Missouri Ballroom sweep you off your feet as you dance beneath glittering crystal chandeliers on the pristine marble floor. Indulge in tailor-made menus, from tantalizing appetizers to personalized wedding cakes crafted to perfection. With well-appointed, on-site hotel rooms and convenient shuttle services, your celebration will continue seamlessly into the night. Create unforgettable memories and let your dreams come true — only at the MAC.

405 Washington Avenue ✦ St. Louis, MO 63102 ✦ 314-539-4424 ✦ mac-stl.org ✦ facebook.com/MACWeddings

MAC-STLbride-MAY24.indd 1 163 STLWB_260100_161_176.indd Untitled-4 1

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THIRD DEGREE GLASS FACTORY

YO U IN THE LOU… and Your Wedding Guests, too! From historic landmarks to modern art spaces, these venues were made to be celebrated in. By Jennifer C. Frakes

SAINT LOUIS ART MUSEUM

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BRIDESTL.COM • SPRING/SUMMER 2026

UNION STATION

am a St. Louis girl through and through. Born and raised here, I met a guy from Ohio who moved here for his job. He had family there and in Indiana and Kentucky. When Scott popped the question, my wheels quickly began turning about how to show off St. Louis to his family and friends and every guest who might not know what our city has to offer. We hosted our rehearsal dinner at

Busch Stadium, were married at The Old Cathedral, took photos at Union Station and Keiner Plaza, the guys played golf in Forest Park and we hung out in the Central West End and on The Hill. Everyone was impressed, with many guests also heading out on their own to enjoy other St. Louis area sites. Following are 11 St. Louis spots (and two that are not far beyond the metro area) that offer truly

9TH STREET ABBEY

SEVEN GABLES INN

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: ©IVORY GROVE PHOTOGRAPHY, ©SARAH CORBETT PHOTOGRAPHY, ©SEVEN GABLES INN, ©KATE HARGIS PHOTOGRAPHY, ©SARAH CORBETT PHOTOGRAPHY

unique and memorable experiences for you and all your guests.

BUSCH STADIUM

Having these historic and familiar spaces

Home of the St. Louis Cardinals, Busch Stadium

to yourselves is in itself so unique. You can

is, of course, in downtown St. Louis and in the

get married at home plate with your fans in

shadow of the Gateway Arch. It’s adjacent to

the green seats, host a smaller gathering in the

Ballpark Village, an entertainment district that

player’s clubhouse or have a themed signature

is home to the St. Louis Cardinals Hall of Fame

cocktail at the bar in the dugout. Cocktail hour

and Museum and the team-owned restaurant,

can be enjoyed on the outfield’s warning track.

Cardinals Nation. WORDS TO REMEMBER: “The quality of WHAT MAKES IT EXCEPTIONAL:

the service we provide makes your day easy,”

“When you think St. Louis, you think baseball

Coticchio said. “We are proud of customizing

and the St. Louis Cardinals,” said Jenn

your experience to exactly what you want it to

Coticchio, Director of Special Events. Whether

be. We have a lot of fun around here and want

a baseball fan or not, most would agree Busch

to make sure you and your guests do, too.”

Stadium and the Cardinals are a symbol of

cardinals.com

the city. Hosting your Big Day at Busch is unforgettable. You can have a ceremony and

CHASE PARK PLAZA HOTEL

reception at several different places around

The Royal Sonesta Chase Park Plaza Hotel

the ballpark, from April 1 to November 5, on

(AAA 4 Diamond-Rated) is in the heart

non-game days. “It’s a really unique perspective,

of St. Louis' bustling Central West End

being in the stadium when it’s empty,” Coticchio

neighborhood, surrounded by an abundance

said. “We like to say when the Cards are away,

of art, boutiques, eateries and entertainment.

it’s our turn to play!”

This beautiful Art Deco hotel opened in 1929

Couples can opt for typical baseball food, but

and boasts former guests such as Elvis Presley,

the skilled culinary team at Busch offers a range

the Rolling Stones and several presidents. The

of options, from nostalgic food to finely curated

Chase Park Plaza has been inducted into the

cuisine and high-end plated dinners.

Historic Hotels of America and is a stone’s throw from Forest Park.

EXCLUSIVE ACCESS AND EXPERIENCES: The lineup is loaded with special, private-event

WHAT MAKES IT EXCEPTIONAL:

only opportunities for you and your guests. You

Besides its beauty, history and location, many

take some swing in the batting cages, throw

elements of The Chase make it ideal for a

pitches in the bullpen or from the mound, can

wedding celebration. The Starlight and Zodiac

hold a game-used bat during cocktail hour, or

Ballrooms boast floor-to-ceiling windows that

even get your hands on a World Series ring or

overlook the city skyline and Forest Park from

trophy. “There are lots of fun things to do to add

the 11th floor, and can be booked together

interest to a cocktail hour,” Coticchio said. You

or individually. “Our Starlight and Zodiac

can even mingle with a Cardinals alum or our

Ballrooms also have large private outdoor

new Mascot Hall of Fame inductee, Fredbird.

balconies for the perfect indoor/outdoor event

Ever wanted to see your name and face in lights?

space,” said Paul Buff, Director of Sales and

Your name and photos of you and your betrothed

Marketing. The historic Khorassan Ballroom

can be featured on the giant scoreboard.

brings timeless elegance, with signature SPRING/SUMMER 2026 • BRIDESTL.COM

165

YO U I N T H E LO U… A N D YO U R W E D D I N G G U E STS , TO O ! changes often, so there is always something new to see,” Jenkins said. EXCLUSIVE ACCESS AND EXPERIENCES: The mezzanine level is open throughout the night, and photographers can shoot from there to capture the guests and happenings down below. “Guests can also walk the mezzanine level to see the glass-walled artist studios, with the chance to catch artists at work,” Jenkins said. “If their door is open, you can even walk into the studio space and chat with the artists. There’s also a lovely view of the Missouri River from that level.” WORDS TO REMEMBER: “People are often

BUSCH STADIUM

surprised when they come to the Foundry for the first time,” Jenkins said. “They may not have known we are here and are so surprised by our bright and inviting interior and all the wonderful artwork, then have so much fun at an event here,” Jenkins said. “The Foundry Arts Centre is where historic charm meets modern elegance.”

MISSOURI HISTORY MUSEUM A perennial Knot Award Winner, the Missouri FOUNDRY ARTS CENTRE

CHASE PARK PLAZA HOTEL

History Museum is at the north entrance to Forest Park, the same spot that served as the entrance to the 1904 World’s Fair. This historic

chandeliers that transform the space into a

FOUNDRY ART CENTRE

Beaux Arts building has modern amenities and

romantic evening under the stars.

The Foundry Art Centre sits on historic Main

outdoor options for a ceremony or cocktail hour,

Street in St. Charles, along the Missouri River

such as the stately front of the building and a

EXCLUSIVE ACCESS AND EXPERIENCES:

and Katy Trail. A cultural center exhibiting art

courtyard off the Grand Hall.

“Whether in our ‘Grand Hall’ or on one of our

from local, national and international artists in

spiral staircases, we have the ideal photo locations

its five galleries, the Foundry Art Centre also

WHAT MAKES IT EXCEPTIONAL:

for our in-house weddings,” Buff said. “It’s also

serves as a working studio for 12 artists and a

“The museum gives guests an introduction to

the perfect spot for ‘First Look’ pictures.”

performance and education center.

and a lasting impression of our city,” said Tami

WORDS TO REMEMBER: The Chase offers

WHAT MAKES IT EXCEPTIONAL: The

Experience. The museum boasts a one-of-a-kind

so many amenities, there’s no need to leave the

attractive brick building home of the Foundry

collection, celebrating St. Louis’s rich, diverse

property the entire wedding weekend. There

Art Centre was once where railroad cars were

and fascinating history, and connecting its past

is a Mediterranean-style pool and courtyard,

produced, in the 1850s. The interior has been

to the future. Though many installations change,

three on-site restaurants, a charming movie

beautifully redesigned, with soaring 75-foot

the 1904 World’s Fair exhibit is permanent and

theater, a fitness center, sophisticated guest

ceilings and plenty of convertible space for a

fascinating for visitors. The Grand Hall offers a

rooms and suites, and private rooms for

variety of sizes of celebrations. “We kept the

beautiful open floor plan and sweeping views of

bridal showers, rehearsal dinners, and farewell

industrial feel but made it modern,” said Paige

the park. Look down to admire the floor’s winding

brunches. “Many of our wedding parties visit

Jenkins, Event Specialist and Special Events

River Mosaic, and look up to see “The Spirit of St.

also The Chase Club following their event to

Coordinator at Foundry Art Centre. Having

Louis,” the sister plane to Charles Lindbergh’s.

enjoy live music while they continue dancing

both a historical setting on a cobblestone

the night away,” Buff said.

street and bright, contemporary spaces and

EXCLUSIVE ACCESS AND EXPERIENCES:

colorful artwork leads to endless possibilities

A couple recently married at the museum said,

for photographs. “The artwork in each gallery

“The added exhibit access was a hit for our

Goldman, Director of Tourism and Visitor

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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: ©BUSCH STADIUM, ©DEREK COFFMAN PHOTOGRAPHY, ©SWEET SMILES BY SARAH MICHELLE

foundryartcentre.org

Scan to get your ticket! Upcoming Wedding Shows

January Show: January 10th, 2026 Where: St. Charles Convention Center Time: 11am-3pm

theoneweddingshow.com

August Show: August 2nd, 2026 Where: Ameristar St. Charles Time: 12pm-4pm

Image © Rhonda Favor Studios

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YO U I N T H E LO U… A N D YO U R W E D D I N G G U E STS , TO O ! guests, who appreciated taking a break from the

ops among the brick sidewalks and historic

EXCLUSIVE ACCESS AND EXPERIENCES:

dance floor and learning a bit about Missouri

buildings. The property also features on-site

“The gallery at night when the museum is not

history.” The gift shop can also be opened for

accommodations for up to 30 guests, allowing

open to the public has a cool, almost forbidden

your celebration, where guests can find carefully

your wedding weekend to unfold on one lovely

feeling,” Heckemeyer said. “Being surrounded by

curated locally-made products, gifts and

property. Stay in the beautifully restored former

world famous art — by artists everyone would

historical merchandise.

Rectory or the charming old Schoolhouse,

know — is an exceptional opportunity.”

and experience the magic of saying “I do” in a RAVE REVIEWS: A new bride was thrilled

neighborhood well-accustomed to celebrations.

WORDS TO REMEMBER: The Saint Louis Art

about her day at the museum. “Our wedding

(The Soulard neighborhood, is of course, the

Museum holds memories for many St. Louisans,

at the Missouri History Museum was better

home of St. Louis’s Mardi Gras parade and

whether it be field trips, dates, prom pictures,

than anything I dreamed!” she said. “I had seen

festivities, often said to be the third largest

or having visited special exhibitions. “The Saint

the museum set up for weddings and knew

Mardi Gras party in the world). The Abbey also

Louis Art Museum is in an iconic building that

it is a beautiful space. We received so many

offers an enchanting garden and one of the best

has stood the test of time. It’s a place couples

compliments from guests who were really

patios in Soulard, a community also known for

will always be able to come back to for a date or

wowed by how gorgeous it was! We made a

its appealing outdoor areas.

anniversary. And out-of-town guests are always so impressed with the museum, and its big city

‘grand entrance’ coming down the staircase in the Grand Hall. It allowed us to briefly chat

RAVE REVIEWS: “One of the things we

with guests located on the second-floor balcony

hear most often is how smooth and effortless

and look out over at all our guests below. I got

everything feels from start to finish,” Gallas

emotional walking down the stairs and seeing

said. “Guests also comment on how stunning

ST. LOUIS UNION STATION HOTEL

the genuine joy and happiness on our guests’

the space is. The way the beautiful stained-glass

At Union Station, of course! This former

faces. I wish I could relive that moment again.”

windows glow at golden hour or how magical

railway terminal in downtown St. Louis has

the candlelight looks against the vaulted ceilings.

been converted to hold this wonderful hotel

Many say that they felt taken care of every step

(a Hilton property). It is also home to The St.

9TH STREET ABBEY

of the way. It’s the ultimate compliment when we

Louis Aquarium, The Wheel (the giant and

The 9th Street Abbey is nestled in the heart

see their families lingering in the courtyard at the

colorfully-lit Ferris wheel), unique restaurants,

of Soulard, one of St. Louis’ oldest and most

end of the night, not wanting the celebration to

and new amusement park rides and games at

charming neighborhoods, with architecture

end. That’s when we know we’ve done our job!”

The Midway. The gorgeous and photo-friendly

mohistory.org

dating back to the mid-1800s. The Abbey was

longshotpropertiesstl.com

feel in a beautiful park,” Heckemeyer said. slam.org

Meeting of the Waters fountain is directly across the street from the hotel and has been impressing

built in the late 1800’s, and with its rib-vaulted ceilings and stunning original stained-glass

SAINT LOUIS ART MUSEUM

windows, has endured beautifully. “The space’s

At the highest point of Forest Park, on Art

natural beauty means couples can save money

Hill, sits the nationally-acclaimed Saint Louis

WHAT MAKES IT EXCEPTIONAL: The hotel’s

on decor and budget for the moments and

Art Museum. The building has stood there

magnificent Grand Hall is the showstopper here.

details that truly matter to them,” said Madeline

since the 1904 World’s Fair and holds $500

“It was built in 1894 and recently restored to

Galla, Sales Manager and Event Coordinator.

million worth of art. It offers gorgeous views

its original charm,” said Jaci Konz, Director

and exquisite spaces for both smaller-scale or

of Catering and Events at the hotel. “The

large celebrations.

Grand Hall features sweeping archways, gold

WHAT MAKES IT EXCEPTIONAL: The

visitors since 1939.

leaf detailing, and art glass windows. One can

experienced and dedicated catering team prepares every dish fresh on site, ensuring

WHAT MAKES IT EXCEPTIONAL: The

imagine the impression this leaves on guests!

restaurant-quality flavor and flawless

Sculpture Hall is truly a stunning and elegant

St. Louis Union Station Hotel offers a unique,

presentation. “Because we work so closely

setting for your reception. Guests can visit the

classic, and unforgettably elegant wedding venue

together, our coordination and culinary teams

galleries near the Sculpture Hall that feature

and, of course, legendary service.”

operate as one, supporting you from your first

world-renowned artists. Sarah Heckemeyer,

planning meeting to your last dance,” Galla said.

Director of Catering and Events said, “It’s a

EXCLUSIVE ACCESS AND EXPERIENCES:

“Every event is approached with care, creativity,

traditional, glamourous feel, especially being

One of the venue’s most magical features is the

attention to detail, and genuine excitement! This

surrounded by amazing sculpture and art.” The

3D light show projected onto the Grand Hall’s

makes each and every celebration at The Abbey

sophisticated space speaks for itself and needs

ceiling. This immersive experience includes

as unique as the couple at its center.”

little to no decoration, if you choose. In addition

animated visuals, music, and storytelling,

to the gorgeous building, views and art, the

transforming the ceiling into a living canvas.

EXCLUSIVE ACCESS AND EXPERIENCES:

museum’s garden offers beautiful outdoor spaces

“Guests are often stunned by this unexpected

You don’t have to go far to find incredible photo

for cocktail hour and even dancing.

spectacle, and it’s frequently cited as a highlight

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YO U I N T H E LO U… A N D YO U R W E D D I N G G U E STS , TO O !

THE SHELDON

couples, from the cocktail hour to the ceremony and then the reception,” said Kim Vermillion, Sales Manager and Event Specialist. “It can all happen right here.” WORDS TO REMEMBER: “If your friend owned a Tudor mansion with a courtyard, had a private chef, an excellent staff and 15 charming rooms for you and your guests to stay, and you

MISSOURI HISTORY MUSEUM

wanted to have your wedding there, this would be the place,” Erney said.

of the evening,” Konz said.

WHAT MAKES IT EXCEPTIONAL: This

sevengablesinn.com

Beyond the Grand Hall, the hotel offers

charming Tudor building has stood since 1926

multiple event spaces to suit different styles and

and features a beautiful, fairy-lit courtyard.

THE SHELDON

guest counts, including the Regency Ballroom

“It really is an urban oasis,” said Mark Erney,

The Sheldon is a mecca for live music, art and

for a more modern vibe. Couples can also

General Manager. “Seven Gables Inn is a

culture, and is fittingly located in the heart of

incorporate access to the St. Louis Aquarium,

charming cottage in the middle of a city, with

Grand Center, in Midtown. The Sheldon’s concert

The Wheel, or even fire and light shows over the

modern amenities. It’s the best of both worlds.”

hall was completed in 1912 and designed by

lake into their wedding weekend. “Our on-site

The courtyard is protected by walls, so guests

Louis Spiering, architect for the 1904 World’s Fair.

venue coordinators help tailor these experiences,

can enjoy the outdoors and skylines but it’s

The grand staircase at the front of the building is

making each wedding feel like a curated

peaceful, secluded and private. The courtyard

perfect for wedding party and family photos.

weekend getaway,” said Konz.

can seat 90 or accommodate up to 150.

RAVE REVIEWS: “Couples rave about the

EXCLUSIVE ACCESS AND EXPERIENCES:

off a huge renovation just revealed in October,

‘wow factor’ of the Grand Hall, the delicious

With its 15 guest rooms, you can book the

The Sheldon offers a new entry, visitor space,

menu items, the seamless blend of history

entire inn if you choose, which offers maximum

bar, lobby and updated gallery space. “We’ve

and modern luxury, and how the venue itself

flexibility for hosting multiple events. (Seven

upgraded spaces while keeping the historic

becomes part of the story,” Konz said. “Many

Gables Inn is a Marriott Tribute Portfolio hotel).

charm and loveliness,” said Cary Goldwasser,

say it’s the most memorable wedding they’ve

“It’s an intimate, but sophisticated, setting with

Director of Marketing and Communications.

ever attended, thanks to the immersive setting

a warm, fuzzy feeling,” Erney said. “Our rooms

and unexpected touches like the light show or

are a blend of traditional and modern with lots of

Ballroom and Konneker Room for receptions.

aquarium access.”

thoughtful touches. Your guests can wake up to the

The Konneker Room has floor-to-ceiling glass

smell of breakfast throughout the inn. It’s an ideal

windows and offers a view of the Central West

union-station-hotel

place to create memories with family and friends.”

End and Cathedral Basilica, as well as serving

The food is excellent farm-to-table fare

as a spectacular backdrop during sunsets. The

SEVEN GABLES INN

with some of the produce grown right in the

Sheldon Ballroom features golden hardwood

Seven Gables Inn is a European-style boutique

courtyard. Seven is the restaurant on site and

flooring, a full stage and dramatically beamed

hotel in Clayton, a walkable, upscale business

offers delicious and inventive cuisine.

ceilings with large skylights. A glass walkway

www.hilton.com/en/hotels/stlcuqq-st-louis-

In addition to the Concert Hall, there are the

links the historic facilities with the more

and residential district conveniently located

Though, or maybe because, it is a boutique

minutes from the airport and downtown.

hotel, Seven Gables makes it easy to customize

contemporary art galleries and chic gathering

Clayton offers an array of restaurants, bars,

the day and even weekend to your needs. “We

spaces. The Sheldon offers flexible options for

shops, galleries and nearby Shaw Park.

have hosted entire wedding celebrations for

weddings large and small.

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YO U I N T H E LO U… A N D YO U R W E D D I N G G U E STS , TO O ! THIRD DEGREE GLASS FACTORY Third Degree Glass Factory is just west of the Central West End, and is the anchor of the Delmar Maker District, which provides space and support for artists and creators of all kinds. Though the District was damaged by last May’s tornado, Third Degree was fortunate to be able to bounce back within a few weeks. WHAT MAKES IT EXCEPTIONAL: Third

Degree Glass Factory is St. Louis’s only publicly accessible glass art studio and education center, as well as a gallery with stunning glass work and a unique event space with 30-foot windows. There are permanent installations, such as the colorful plate wall, as well as rotating ones. This historic former Pontiac dealership has garage doors that open to a courtyard oasis that’s perfect for cocktail hour. SILVER OAKS CHATEAU

EXCLUSIVE ACCESS AND EXPERIENCES:

Couples can include a glassblowing demonstration for the guests to watch artists

EXCLUSIVE ACCESS AND EXPERIENCES:

Silver Oaks a special place. “Whether gathering

in action. The couple can pick a customized

Getting married in the Concert Hall, with its

on the patio or by the outdoor fireplace under

piece, a bowl or a vase, for a meaningful take-

perfect acoustics (no microphones needed) is a

the bistro lights or listening to the sounds of the

home piece of art. “Glassblowing is so cool

truly special experience. Guests will have full

waterfall, Silver Oaks is a warm and inviting place

to watch and it’s ideal to do during cocktail

and private access to the contemporary elegance

where guests want to hang out,” said Gabrielle

hour, especially if the room is being converted

of the art galleries during cocktail hour.

Falciano, Director of Events. “Indoors, the dance

from a ceremony to a reception space,” said

floor, bar and tables are all in one room, so all

Tyler Wolff, Venue Manager. “Couples can

RAVE REVIEWS: “Visitors are immediately

the guests are a part of the entire evening. People

also choose a unity ceremony, similar to a

impressed, and put at ease when they enter

don’t want the party to end,” said Falciano.

sand ceremony, but they use tiny pieces of glass called frit, and their two chosen colors

The Sheldon,” Goldwasser said. “It’s relaxed, warm and welcoming. It’s not stuffy at all. It

EXCLUSIVE ACCESS AND EXPERIENCES:

of frit merge together to create a distinctive,

just feels like a happy place. People also love the

A wedding celebration can have the property all to

personal piece that commemorates their

intimate feel of the Concert Hall and its unique

themselves, giving the ultimate feeling of privacy

wedding day.”

and beautiful stained-glass windows. There is

and exclusivity. There is also a luxurious Chalet

Third Degree offers craft cocktails curated

nothing cookie-cutter about any of our spaces.”

on property, that sleeps 18 and can also host a

by nationally-recognized St. Louis bartender

rehearsal dinner or bridal brunch. Weddings of 50

Meredith Barry, who has appeared on the

people or less can even be hosted in the Chalet.

Netflix show “Drink Masters” and her bar,

SILVER OAKS CHATEAU Just 35 miles west of St. Louis in Pacific, Missouri, Silver Oaks Chateau is a Frenchinspired estate on 28 beautiful acres of an Oak Forest Preserve. The Chateau features high ceilings, lots of natural light and beautiful chandeliers. The outdoor space includes a patio, waterfall, pond, dock and fountain.

Platypus, was named Best Under the Radar WORDS TO REMEMBER: The layout and

Bar in the country.

design of the venue, and the dedicated staff, leads to a smooth-running day. “We pride

WORDS TO REMEMBER: “The glassblowing

ourselves on over-delivering and have received

and rotating art installations make Third Degree

rave reviews about our coordination and hard-

a one-of-a-kind event space,” Wolff said. “Our

working staff. The floor plan is very flexible

indoor and outdoor spaces flow well and we

with lots of options. Whenever couples return

have tons of natural light and great backdrops

and show us their wedding albums, they all look

for photos. Being a creative space, we are

WHAT MAKES IT EXCEPTIONAL:

very different from each other. I think that’s a

always flexible and open to a couple’s ideas and

The private and sophisticated French-style setting

testament to all the possibilities at Silver Oaks.”

thinking outside the box to create their vision.”

with wonderful spots indoors and out makes 172

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silveroakschateau.com

thirddegreeglassfactory.com

www.thesheldon.org

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R E C E P T I O N S I T E S | 86 of our favorite reception venues

CEREMONY SITE

CAPACITY STANDING

CAPACITY SEATED

OUTDOOR PARTY AREA

ON SITE CATERING

ALLOW CHOICE OF CATERER

ROOM CHARGE

CAKE CUTTING CHARGE

OVERNIGHT GUESTS

Whether your party is upscale and elegant or informal and fun, you’ll find the perfect venue in our comprehensive list below.

9th Street Abbey, 708-256-6237, (Ad on page 153) 1808 S 9th Street, 63104 • www.longshotpropertiesstl.com

499

250

list

ask

18 Rails, 314-664-4680, (Ad on page 3) 3700 Forest Park Avenue, 63108 • www.18rails.com

700

350

612 North Event Space & Catering, 314-899-0612, (Ad on page 161) 612 N. 2nd Street, 63102 • www.612north.com

700+

500+

call

Ameristar Casino Resort Spa, 636-940-4300, (Ad on page 21) One Ameristar Blvd., St. Charles, 63301 • www.ameristar.com

1,450

640

Angad Arts Hotel, 314-561-0033 3550 Samuel Shepard Drive, 63103 • www.angardartshotel.com

200

Anheuser-Busch Biergarten, 314-765-3260, (Ad on page 69) 1200 Lynch Street, St. Louis MO 63118 • www.budweisertours.com

ask

280

Ballpark Village St. Louis, 314-797-7530, (Ad on page 127) 601 Clark Ave., St. Louis, Missouri 63102 • www.stlballparkvillage.com

400

171

Barnett on Washington, 844-GO-BARNETT, (Ad on page 41) 3207 Washington Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63103 • www.barnettonwashington.com

365

200

call

Bowood by Niche, 314-454-6868, (Ad on page 49) 4605 Olive Street, St. Louis, MO 63108 • www. bowoodbyniche.com

Brookdale Farms, 636-938-1005 ext. 101, (Ad on page 14) 8004 Twin River Rd., Eureka, MO 63025 • www.brookdalefarms.com

600 255 in

450

Cardinals Special Events, 314-345-9630, (Ad on page 111) 700 Clark St., 63102 • www.cardinals.com/events

2,000 1,200

The Chase Park Plaza Royal Sonesta St. Louis, 314-633-1006, (Ad on page 137) 212 N Kingshighway Blvd., 63108 • www.sonesta.com/royal-sonesta/mo/st-louis/chase-park-plaza-royal-sonesta-st-louis

2,000 1,000

N/A

ask

The Cheshire, 314-932-7857 7036 Clayton Ave., St. Louis, MO 63117 • www.cheshirestl.com

255

170

City Cottage on Chouteau, 314-961-7588, (Ad on page 39) (Catering St. Louis) 3800 Chouteau, 63110 • www.cateringstlouis.com

175

100

The Coronado Ballroom, 314-881-4346, (Ad on page 3) 3701 Lindell Blvd., 63108 • www.thecoronado.com

600

350

The Dogwood in the Grove, 314-300-8500, (Ad on page 25) 08 Manchester Ave., St. Louis, MO 63110 • www.thedogwoodstl.com

250

150

DoubleTree Chesterfield, 636-532-5000, (Ad on page 192) 16625 Swingley Ridge Rd., Chesterfield, MO 63017 • www.doubletreechesterfield.com

1,000

500

ask

Expat BBQ, 314-924-9728, (Ad on page 49) 3730 Foundry Way, St. Louis, MO 63110 • www.expatstl.com

200

120

The Falls Reception & Conference Center, 618-281-3255 300 Admiral Weinel Blvd., Columbia, IL 62236 • www.seethefalls.com

800

550

Forest Park Visitor’s Center, 314-961-7588 x221, (Ad on page 39) (Catering St. Louis) 5595 Grand Drive in Forest Park, 63112 • www.cateringstlouis.com

275

210

Foundry Art Centre, 636-255-0270, (Ad on page 145) 520 North Main Center, Saint Charles, MO 63301 • www.foundryartcentre.org

400

350

The Franklin of Soulard, 314-585-6323, (Ad on page 113) 816 Allen Avenue, St. Louis, MO, 63104 • www.thefranklinofsoulard.com

350

300

Gatsby Events, 314-948-4494 2710 Lafayette Ave., St. Louis, MO 63103 • www.GatsbyEvents-Stl.com

300

220

The Hall at Olive + Oak, 314-736-1370 x2, (Ad on page 63) 216 W. Lockwood Avenue, 63119 • www.oliveandoakstl.com

500

220

Hilton St. Louis at the Ballpark, 314-421-1776, (Ad on page 29) 1 South Broadway, 63102 • www.hiltonstlouis.com

900

650

Hilton St. Louis Frontenac, 314-993-1100, (Ad on page 189) 1335 S. Lindbergh Blvd., 63131 • www.stlouisfrontenac.hilton.com

1,000

500

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MEMORIES ARE FOREVER

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CEREMONY SITE

CAPACITY STANDING

CAPACITY SEATED

OUTDOOR PARTY AREA

ON SITE CATERING

ALLOW CHOICE OF CATERER

ROOM CHARGE

CAKE CUTTING CHARGE

OVERNIGHT GUESTS

Hotel Saint Louis - A Marriott Autograph Collection, 314-241-4300, (Ad on page 123) 705 Olive Street, 63101 • www.hotelsaintlouis.com

170

150

Hyatt Regency St. Louis at the Arch, 314-342-4655, (Ad on page 107) 315 Chestnut Street, 63102 • www.hyattregencystlouis.com

3,500 2,000

call

Innsbrook Resort, 636-928-3366 x9410, (Ad on page 65) 596 Aspen Way Drive, Innsbrook, MO 63390 • www.innsbrook-resort.com

400

350

ask

Knotting Hills, 314-337-3133, (Ad on back cover) 1756 Moloney Drive, Pevely, MO 63070 • www.knottinghills.com

300

The Lake at Knotting Hills, 314-337-3133, (Ad on back cover) 1756 Knotting Hills Pl., Plevely, MO 63070 • www.knottinghills.com

225

LaVerona at The Marketplace, 314-961-7588 x221, (Ad on page 39) 4925 Daggett Ave, 63110 • www.cateringstlouis.com

250

190

Le Meridien St. Louis Clayton, 314-719-4308, (Ad on page 104) 7730 Bonhomme Avenue, 63105 • www.lemeridienclayton.com

300

250

Live! by Loews St. Louis, 314-597-9675, (Ad on page 99) 799 Clark Avenue, St. Louis, MO • www.loewshotels.com/live-by-loews-st-louis-missouri

550

340

Lodge at Grant’s Trail, 314-638-3340, (Ad on page 214) 4398 Hoffmeister, 63125 • www.lodgeatgrantstrail.com

125

Magnolia Hotel St. Louis, 314-436-9000 421 North 8th Street, St. Louis, MO 63101 • www.magnoliahotels.com

250

200

The Mahler Ballroom, 314-361-4411, (Ad on page 61) 4915 Washington Ave., 63108 • www.mahlerballroom.com

250

200

Marriott St. Louis Airport - Grand Ballroom, 314-423-9700, (Ad on page 191) 10700 Pear Tree Ln., St. Louis, MO 63134 • www.marriott.com/STLAP

1,400

850

ask

Marriott St. Louis Airport - East Ballroom, 314-423-9700, (Ad on page 191) 10700 Pear Tree Ln., St. Louis, MO 63134 • www.marriott.com/STLAP

700

ask

Marriott St. Louis Grand-Crystal Ballroom, 314-418-5820, (Ad on page 35) 800 Washington Ave., Downtown • www.marriottstlouisgrand.com

400

270

call

Marriott St. Louis Grand-Statler Ballroom, 314-418-5820, (Ad on page 35) 800 Washington Ave., Downtown • www.marriottstlouisgrand.com

300

180

call

RECEPTION SITES

WOW YOUR GUESTS WITH A UNIQUE WOOD FIRED EVENT! WE CAN CUSTOMIZE YOUR MENU!

Bridal Showers Rehearsal Dinners Wedding Receptions

il forno wood FIre pizza CATERING AND ON SITE SERVICES AVAILABLE 314.771.4900 | ST. LOUIS, MO

5046 Shaw Ave. St. Loius, MO | 314.771.4900 | guidosstl.com Untitled-8 1 190 BRIDESTL.COM • SPRING/SUMMER 2026

11/19/21 10:43 AM

CEREMONY SITE

CAPACITY STANDING

CAPACITY SEATED

OUTDOOR PARTY AREA

ON SITE CATERING

ALLOW CHOICE OF CATERER

ROOM CHARGE

CAKE CUTTING CHARGE

OVERNIGHT GUESTS

The McPherson Wedding Venue, 314-713-9922, (Ad on page 97) 4715 McPherson Ave, St. Louis, MO 63108 • www.TheMcPhersonVenue.com

290

240

Missouri Athletic Club, 314-539-4424, (Ad on page 163) 405 Washington Avenue, St. Louis MO 63102 • www.mac-stl.org

500

360

Missouri Botanical Garden, 314-577-0200, (Ad on page 101) (Catering St. Louis 961-7588 x221) 4344 Shaw Blvd., 63110 • www.cateringstlouis.com

300

200

Missouri History Museum, 314-454-3159, (Ad on page 75) 5700 Lindell Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63112 • www.mohistory.org/museum/host-an-event

400

250

Moonrise Hotel, 314-721-1111, (Ad on page 77) 6177 Delmar Blvd., 63112 • www.moonrisehotel.com

200

The Noble, 314-455-7111, (Ad on page 41) 3611 S Grand Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63118 • www.thenoblestl.com

200

350

230

N/A

Old Hickory Golf Club, 636-477-8960, (Ad on page 23) 1 Dye Club Drive, St. Peters, MO 63304 • www.oldhickorygc.com

1,000

550

The Olde Wicks Factory / Gatsby Room, 618-651-6323, (Ad on page 7) 1100 5th Street, Highland, IL 62249 • www.oldewicksfactory.com

200

150

The Olde Wicks Factory / Grand Hall, 618-651-6323, (Ad on page 7) 1100 5th Street, Highland, IL 62249 • www.oldewicksfactory.com

550

350

The Olde Wicks Factory / Main Hall, 618-651-6323, (Ad on page 7) 1100 5th Street, Highland, IL 62249 • www.oldewicksfactory.com

600

500

The Olde Wicks Factory / West Hall, 618-651-6323, (Ad on page 7) 1100 5th Street, Highland, IL 62249 • www.oldewicksfactory.com

410

350

Oliva on the Hill, 314-961-7588 x221, (Ad on page 39) 4915 Daggett, 63110 • www.cateringstlouis.com

120

100

Orlando’s Event & Conference Centers, 314-638-6660, (Ad on page 47) 4300 Hoffmeister, 63125 • www.orlandogardens.com

1,000

900

Orlando’s Event & Conference Centers, 314-453-9000, (Ad on page 47) 2050 Dorsett Village Plaza, Maryland Heights, MO 63043 • www.orlandogardens.com

900

600

Piazza Messina, 636-232-0109, (Ad on page 97) 5535 State Highway N, Cottleville, MO 63304 • www.PiazzaMessina.com

500

300

RECEPTION SITES

SPRING/SUMMER 2026 • BRIDESTL.COM

191

CEREMONY SITE

CAPACITY STANDING

CAPACITY SEATED

OUTDOOR PARTY AREA

ON SITE CATERING

ALLOW CHOICE OF CATERER

ROOM CHARGE

CAKE CUTTING CHARGE

OVERNIGHT GUESTS

The Post Building, 314-202-4518, (Ad on page 41) 1190 Cole St. St. Louis, MO 63101 • www.thepoststl.com

800

600

The Reverie, 314-664-7680, (Ad on page 3) 17057 N Outer 40 Rd, Chesterfield, MO 63005 • www.thereveriestl.com

800

400

The Ridge Room, 314-724-7413 (Ad on page 193) 60 N. Gore Ave, Webster Groves, MO 63119 • www.ridgeroomstl.com

120

100

ask

The Ritz Carlton, St. Louis, 314-863-6300, (Ad on page 13) 100 Carondelet Plaza, 63105 • www.ritzcarlton.com

1,000

800

call

Saint Louis Art Museum, 314-655-5387, (Ad on page 121) One Fine Arts Drive, St. Louis, MO 63110 • www.slam.org/host-an-event

400

275

Saint Louis Zoo, 314-646-4855, (Ad on page 85) One Government Drive, Forest Park • www.stlzoo.org/weddings

unltd.

500

The Sheldon Concert Hall & Ballroom, 314-533-9900, (Ad on page 72) 3648 Washington Blvd., 63108 • www.sheldonconcerthall.org

700

500

call

Sheraton Westport Lakeside Chalet, 314-878-1500, (Ad on page 28) 191 Westport Plaza, 63146 • www.sheratonwestport.com

1,000

500

Sheraton Westport Plaza Hotel, 314-878-1500, (Ad on page 28) 900 Westport Plaza, 63146 • www.sheratonwestport.com

500

250

Silver Oaks Chateau, 314-807-6037, (Ad on page 27) 1168 State Highway 100, Wildwood, MO 63069 • www.silveroakschateau.com

300

Slate Private Event Space, 314-899-0430 1015 Locust St., St. Louis, MO 63101 • www.eventsatbaileys.com

170

150

ask

Smith & Company at the Moto Museum, 314-446-1805, (Ad on page 41) 3408 Locust St, St. Louis, MO 63103 • www.thesmithstlouis.com

1,000

450

The Solarium at The Ritz Carlton, St. Louis, 314-863-6300, (Ad on page 13) 100 Carondelet Plaza, 63105 • www.ritzcarlton.com

250

150

SqWires Annex, 314-865-3522 1415 South 18th St., St. Louis, MO 63104 • www.sqwires.com

200

150

St. Louis Union Station Hotel, 314-621-5262 1820 Market St., 63103 • www.stlunionstationhotel.com

500

call

RECEPTION SITES

Here’s to to Here’s Forever Forever

You dream dream it. it. You We’ll create create it. it. We’ll

C H E S T E R F I E L D - S T. L O U I S C H E S T E R F I E L D - S T. L O U I S

16625 Swingley Ridge Road 16625Chesterfield, Swingley Ridge MO Road Chesterfield, MO 636.532.5000

636.532.5000 DoubleTreeChesterfield.com DoubleTreeChesterfield.com

192

BRIDESTL.COM • SPRING/SUMMER 2026

Whether you’re dreaming of a formal ballroom celebration or a more intimate gathering, DoubleTree by Hilton Chesterfield wedding professionals vow to create a most memorable event.

CEREMONY SITE

CAPACITY STANDING

CAPACITY SEATED

OUTDOOR PARTY AREA

ON SITE CATERING

ALLOW CHOICE OF CATERER

ROOM CHARGE

CAKE CUTTING CHARGE

OVERNIGHT GUESTS

Stone House of St. Charles, 636-317-1222, (Ad on page 31) 4401 McClay Road, St. Charles, MO 63304 • www.stonehouseofstcharles.com

call

500

Sugar Spring Manor, 618-281-2276, (Ad on page 37) 4505 HH Road, Waterloo, IL 62298 • www.sugarspringranch.com

Sugar Spring Ranch, 618-281-2276, (Ad on page 37) 1385 Centerville Road, Columbia, IL 62236 • www.sugarspringranch.com

420

300

Sugar Spring South, 618-281-2276, (Ad on page 37) 1365 N IL-3, Waterloo, IL 62298 • www.sugarspringranch.com

300

225

Sunset Bluffs, 314-660-2210 230 Sunset Bluffs Rd., Washington, MO 63090 • www.sunsetbluffs.com

300

Sunset Event Space by Twisted Tree, 314-620-2141, (Ad on page 38) 10705 Watson Rd., St. Louis, MO 63127 • www.sunseteventspace.com

N/A

300

ask

Third Degree Glass, 314-367-4527, (Ad on page 41) 5200 Delmar Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63108 • www.thirddegreeglassfactory.com

500

225

Three Barn Farm, 314-961-7588 x221, (Ad on page 39) 20955 Highway W, Clarksville, MO 63336 • www.cateringstlouis.com

150

124

Tuscany Landing, 636-655-8243, (Ad on page 131) 60 Crocker Lane, Foristell, MO 63348 • www.TuscanyLanding.com

200

175

The Venue at Maison du Lac (Ces & Judy’s Catering), 314-991-6700, (Ad on page 91) 2603 Wild Plum Valley Road, Catawissa, MO 63069 • www.thevenuestl.com

300+

The Weingarten, 618-257-9463, (Ad on page 147) 1780 E State Rte 15, Belleville, IL 62221 • www.theweingarten.com

350+

200

ask

Westin St. Louis, 314-621-2000, (Ad on page 143) 811 Spruce Street, St. Louis, MO 63102 • www.marriott.com/stlwi

400

270

ask

Westwind Hills, 314-325-2556, (Ad on page 19) 1641 Highway OO, Pacific, Missouri 63069 • www.westwindhills.com

300

ask

Willow Private Event Space, 314-899-0430 321 North 10th St., 63101 • www.weddingsinwillow.com

300

225

ask

Xaiver Grand Ballroom, 314-977-7303, (Ad on page 97) 3628 Lindell Blvd St. Louis, MO 63108 • www.RussosGourmet.com/venues/xavier-grand-ballroom/

550

330

RECEPTION SITES

B E C A U S E E V E RY L OV E S T O RY D E S E R V E S E XC E P T I O N A L F L AVO R

Celebrate, Connect, Create. C AT E R I N G W E D D I N G S•R E H E A R S A L D I N N E R S•S H O W E R S

8103 Big Bend Blvd | 314-724-7413 Catering@balkantreatbox.com

60 A North Gore Ave | 314-724-7413 | lisa@balkantreatbox.com

SPRING/SUMMER 2026 • BRIDESTL.COM

193

ESSENTIAL GUIDE A list of local businesses to make planning your wedding in the St. Louis metropolitan area easier

KATHERINE + NICK JULY 26, 2025 LISA HESSEL PHOTOGRAPHY

CONTENTS

194

Accommodations

196

Gifts, Favors and Hospitality Bags

201

Planners and Consultants

204

Bachelorette/Bachelor Parties

197

Honeymoons

202

Reception Sites

205

Beauty and Health

197

Invitations/Stationers

202

Registry

205

Bridal Gowns & Salons

198

Jewelry

202

Rehearsal Dinner Sites

205

Cakes & Confections

198

Lighting & Décor

202

Rentals

207

Caterers

199

Making It Legal

208

Special Touches

207

Content Creation

200

Mother of the Bride

203

Specialty Services

207

Décor

200

Music & Entertainment

203

Transportation

207

Destination Weddings

200

Online Planning

203

Videographers

207

Floral Preservation

201

Offciants

203

Wedding Shows

208

Florists

201

Photobooths

203

Formalwear

201

Photographers

204

BRIDESTL.COM • SPRING/SUMMER 2026

Say “I d

o” with

BBQ

CELEBRATE YOUR DAY

with the BEST BBQ in Missouri* *Southern Living, 2022

Weddings | Rehearsal Dinner | Showers

Ask About Our Private Banquet Space, Appetizers and Wedding Menus! 314-760-9517 | Liz@pappyssmokehouse.com 3106 Olive Street | St. Louis, MO 63103

STLWB_260100_193_208.indd 195

12/ /25 5:15 PM

ESSENTIAL GUIDE ACCOMMODATIONS 21C MUSEUM HOTEL 1528 Locust Street 314-347-6400 www.21cmuseumhotels.com/stlouis AC HOTEL BY MARRIOTT CHESTERFIELD 16461 Wild Horse Creek Road 636-778-5600 www.marriott.com/stlac AMERISTAR HOTEL 1 Ameristar Blvd, St Charles 636-949-7777 www.ameristar.com ANGAD ARTS HOTEL 3550 Samuel Shepard Drive 314-561-0033 www.AngadArtsHotel.com THE CHESHIRE SAINT LOUIS 6300 Clayton Road 314-647-7300 www.cheshirestl.com

DOUBLETREE BY HILTON 16625 Swingley Ridge Road—Chesterfield 636-532-5000 www.doubletree3.hilton.com

HOTEL SAINT LOUIS 705 Olive Street 314-241-4300 www.hotelsaintlouis.com

THE FOUR SEASONS HOTEL 999 North 2nd Street 314-881-5800 www.fourseasons.com

HYATT REGENCY ST. LOUIS AT THE ARCH 315 Chestnut Street 314-655-1234 www.hyattregencystlouis.com

GOLD DOOR LOFT Airbnb in Soulard Instagram: @GoldDoorLoft www.JandJdesignteam.com

INNSBROOK RESORT 596 Aspen Way Drive Innsbrook, MO 636-928-3366 www.innsbrook-resort.com

HILTON ST. LOUIS AIRPORT HOTEL 10330 Natural Bride Road 314-426-5500 www.hiltonstlouisairport.com HILTON ST. LOUIS AT THE BALLPARK One South Broadway 314-421-1776 www.hiltonstlouis.com HILTON ST. LOUIS FRONTENAC 1335 S. Lindbergh Boulevard 314-993-1100 www.stlouisfrontenac.hilton.com

LE MERIDIEN ST. LOUIS CLAYTON 7730 Bonhomme Avenue 314-863-0400 www.lemeridienclayton.com LIVE! BY LOEWS 799 Clark Avenue 314-597-9700 www.loewshotels.com LODGE AT GRANT’S TRAIL 4398 Hoffmeister Avenue 314-638-3340 www.lodgeatgrantstrail.com

A N D T H E Y AT E C A K E

Happily Ever After St.Louis-Chesterfield Louis-Chesterfield St. 159Lamp Lampand and Lantern Lantern Village 159 Village Chesterfield, MO MO 63017 63017 Chesterfield, (636)220-6087 220-6087 (636)

StLouis-Brentwood Louis-Brentwood St 9040 Manchester Manchester Rd 9040 Rd Louis,MO MO63144 63144 StStLouis, (314)942-3535 942-3535 (314)

St. Peters Peters St. 6123Mid MidRivers Rivers Mall Blvd 6123 Blvd StPeters, Peters, MO MO 63304 63304 St (314) 492-2325 492-2325 (314) Fairview Heights 5915 N IllinoisHeights St Fairview Fairview Heights, IL 62208 5915 N Illinois St (618) 416-8002 Fairview Heights, IL 62208 (618) 416-8002 Maryland Heights 2037 Dorsett Rd. Maryland Heights, MO 63043 314-455-8556

Wentzville 1600 Wentzville Pkwy, Ste 109 Wentzville 63385 1600 Wentzville, Wentzville MO Pkwy, Ste 109 (636) 466-8006 Wentzville, MO 63385 (636) 466-8006

NothingBundtCakes.com

196

BRIDESTL.COM • SPRING/SUMMER 2026

Columbia Columbia 2900Trimble Trimble Road, Ste 2900 Ste 103 103 Columbia, MO MO 65201 65201 Columbia, (573)615-7500 615-7500 (573) Edwardsville 6151 Trace Parkway Dr, Ste C Edwardsville Edwardsville, IL Dr, 62025 6151 Trace Parkway Ste C (618) 221-4931 Edwardsville, IL 62025 (618) 221-4931 Arnold 834 Arnold Commons Dr Arnold Arnold, MO 63010 834 Arnold Commons Dr (636) 245-2340 Arnold, MO 63010 (636) 245-2340

ESSENTIAL GUIDE MARRIOTT ST. LOUIS GRAND 800 Washington Avenue 314-418-5820 www.marriottstlouisgrand.com

ST. LOUIS UNION STATION HOTEL 1820 Market Street 314-231-1234 www.stlunionstationhotel.com

MOONRISE HOTEL 6177 Delmar Boulevard 314-721-1111 www.moonrisehotel.com

WESTIN ST. LOUIS 811 Spruce Street 314-621-2000 www.marriott.com/stlwi

THE RITZ-CARLTON, ST. LOUIS 100 Carondelet Plaza 314-863-6300 www.ritzcarlton.com

BACHELORETTE/ BACHELOR PARTIES

THE ROYAL SONESTA CHASE PARK PLAZA 212 Kingshighway 314-633-3000 www.sonesta.com SEVEN GABLES INN 26 N. Meramec Ave. 314-863-8400 www.sevengablesinn.com

360 ULTIMATE ROOFTOP BAR 1 South Broadway 314-241-8439 www.360-stl.com BALLPARK VILLAGE 601 Clark Ave. www.StlBallparkVillage.com BUDWEISWER BEERMASTER TOUR 1200 Lynch Street www.budweisertours.com

SHERATON WESTPORT PLAZA & LAKESIDE CHALET 900 Westport Plaza 314-878-1500 www.sheratonwestport.com

BEAUTY & HEALTH BRIDES BY BRADY 14145 Clayton Road 662-801-5898 www.bridesbybrady.com FLAWLESS BRIDAL CO. 314-287-3314 www.flawlessmakeupllc.com GOGLOW 9538 Manchester Road 314- 408-6699 www.goglow.co/rock-hill-mo LALO SALON 16223 Baxter Road, Chesterfield 636-733-6996 www.lalosalon.com LOOKS BY LISA & CO 8000 Bonhomme Ave. 314-229-1964 www.looksbylisa.com LILI HU – LOOKS BY LILI ALTNETHER 314-520-0534 www.lilihulooks.com

St. Louis’ Best

Musicians From Classics to Modern Hits create that Bridgerton flair! Attention to detail Decades of dedication 5-star client experience

Call 314-807-6460 for a free consult visit www.goldstandardmusicians.com to listen

SPRING/SUMMER 2026 • BRIDESTL.COM

197

ESSENTIAL GUIDE NORY BEEBE 214-310-7220 www.norybeebe.com

BRIDAL PARLOUR 3630 Green Mount Crossing Dr, Shiloh, IL 618-622-0880 www.BridalParlour.net

SHEAR STUDIOS 17057 Baxter Road 636-778-0877 www.shearstudios.com

KIRSTEN PAGE BRIDAL www.KirstenPaige.com

BRIDAL GOWNS & SALONS AJ BRIDAL COMPANY 245 W. Essex Avenue 314-887-1211 835 Broadway Street, Cape Girardeau, MO www.AJBridalCo.com

MIA GRACE 108 Chesterfield Towne Center 636-778-3433 www.MiaGraceBridal.com MIMI’S BRIDAL AT TOWN & COUNTRY 2730 N. Ballas Road 314-863-7200 www.MimisBridalTownAndCountry.com

BELLA BRIDESMAIDS 4732 McPherson Avenue 314-205-1191 www.BellaBridesmaids.com

TAILORED BRIDAL 609 E. Lockwood Ave., Suite 202 www.TailoedSTL.com

BERRYBRIDGE 9904 Clayton Road 314-997-1439 www.BerrybridgeBridal.com

THE ULTIMATE BRIDE 1115 S. Big Bend Blvd. 314-961-9997 www.TheUltimateBride.com

CAKES & CONFECTIONS THE CAKERY 1420 Tamm Avenue 314-647-6000 www.TheCakeryBakery.net CELEBRATING LIFE CAKE BOUTIQUE 13877 Manchester Road 636-458-7727 www.CelebratingLifeCakes.com CLEMENTINE’S NAUGHTY & NICE CREAMERY 314-782-5400 www.ClementinesCreamery.com COLD STONE CREAMERY 3228 Green Mount Crossing Drive, Shiloh, IL #7 Ronnie’s Plaza 618-622-0044 www.ColdStoneCreamery.com COOP’S COTTON CANDY 573-432-4372 www.CoopsCottonCandy.com

Photos by Russo Photography

An intimate wedding venue specializing in micro weddings and modern elopements.

9036 Veterans Memorial Parkway O’Fallon, MO 63366 | www.marrymecottage.com | 636-734-6077 198

BRIDESTL.COM • SPRING/SUMMER 2026

ESSENTIAL GUIDE THE CUP 28 Maryland Plaza, Central West End 314-367-6111 1057 Century Dr., Edwardsville, IL 618-656-2287 www.CraveTheCup.com LA BONNE BOUCHÉE 12344 Olive Blvd. 314-576-6606 www.LaBonneBouchee.com

BOGART’S SMOKE HOUSE 1627 South 9th Street 314-603-2003 www.BogartsSmokeHouse.com

CATERING ST. LOUIS 2141 59th Street 314-961-7588 x221 www.cateringstlouis.com

BUTLER’S PANTRY 1414 Park Avenue 314-664-7680 www.butlerspantry.com

CES & JUDY’S CATERING 314-991-6700 www.cesandjudys.com

MCARTHUR’S BAKERY 3055 Lemay Ferry Road 314-894-0900 www.McArthurs.com NOTHING BUNDT CAKES 159 Lamp and Lantern Village, Chesterfield 636-220-6084 9040 Manchester Road, Brentwood 314-942-3535 6123 Mid Rivers Mall Blvd., St. Peters 314-492-2535 2900 Trimble Road, Suite 103, Columbia, MO 573-615-7500 5915 N. Illinois Street, Fairview Heights, IL 618-416-8002 1600 Wentzville Pkwy Ste 109, Wentzville 636-466-8006 6151 Trace parkway Dr. Ste C, Edwardsville 618-221-4931 2037 Dorsett Road, Maryland Heights 314455-8556 834 Arnold Commons Dr., Arnold 636-245-2340 www.NothingBundtCakes.com

WEDDINGS EVENTS MILESTONES

POP POP HURRAY! 256 South Florissant Road 314-733-5350 3730 Foundry Way 314-733-5350 www.PopPopHurray.com SLING ‘N SCOOPS 204 S. Main, Red Bud, IL 618-791-3965 www.slingnscoops.com TEMMTATIONS BY WEDDING WONDERLAND 3449 Pheasant Meadow Drive, O’Fallon, MO 314-837-5015 www.wwcakeshop.com

P otog Ph ogr og gra rap aphy h by b Mi Mik ike Ca C ss s imatis iis

CATERERS

Also see REHEARSAL DINNER on page 205 and the RECEPTION SITES grid on page 188. Please note that many of the restaurants listed here may also be able to help you with small, intimate wedding receptions. 612 NORTH EVENTS AND CATERING 612 North 2nd Street 314-889-0612 www.612north.com BALKAN TREAT BOX 8103 Big Bend Blvd. 314-733-5700 www.BalkanTreatBox.com

www.hillaryjevents.com @hillaryjevents

SPRING/SUMMER 2026 • BRIDESTL.COM

199

ESSENTIAL GUIDE CULINARY CANVAS 314-446-1805 www.culinarycanvasstl.com DALIE’S SMOKEHOUSE 2951 Dougherty Ferry Road 314-243-8740 www.DaliesSmokehouse.com

THE FIFTH WHEEL CATERING BY BAILEY’S RESTAURANTS 314-899-0430 www.eventsatbaileys.com

GUIDOS 5046 Shaw 314-771-4990 www.guidostl.com

THE GITTO RESTAURANT GROUP 5226 Shaw Avenue 314-772-8898 www.charliegittos.com

NICHE FOOD GROUP www.EventsByNiche.com ORLANDO’S CATERING 4300 Hoffmeister 2050 Dorsett Village Plaza 314-638-6660 www.orlandogardens.com THE PASTA HOUSE COMPANY CATERING 2200 59th Street 314-644-1400 www.thepastahouse.com PATTY LONG CATERING 412 N Euclid Avenue 314-621-9598 www.pattylongcatering.com RUSSO’S CATERING 9904 Page Avenue 314-427-6771 www.russosgourmet.com

THE SOCIAL AFFAIR 2232 Thurman Avenue 314-735-5527 www.thesocialaffairstl.com EN

WALNUT CATERING COMPANY 314-600-4097 www.walnutcatering.com

PH O TO

CONTENT CREATION

HYPE QUEEN MEDIA 314-882-1130 www.HypeQueenMedia.com

DÉCOR ALL SEASONS LINEN 8312 Olive Blvd 314 983-0090 www.allseasonslinen.com EYE CANDY RENTALS BACKDROPS 618-541-1383 www.eyecandyrentals.com

©R E BE C

LIFE LIGHTS 618-401-7413 www.getlitwithlifelights.com

WARSON WOODS ANTIQUE GALLERY 10091 Manchester Road 314-909-0123 www.MissouriAntiqueMalls.com

ST E PH EN

SO N

W EDPETS.COM /BOOK INFO@W EDPETS.COM 200

BRIDESTL.COM • SPRING/SUMMER 2026

ZHUZH RENTALS 7529 Forsyth Boulevard 314-257-9960 www.zhuzh.rentals

ESSENTIAL GUIDE DESTINATION WEDDINGS INNSBROOK RESORT 596 Aspen Way Drive, Innsbrook, MO 636-928-3366 www.innsbrook-resort.com TRAVEL HAUS OF ST. LOUIS 11229 Concord Village Ave 314-842-6000 www.travelhausstlouis.com

West County Center, 314-821-0070 White Oak Mall, 217-787-8150 www.savviwedding.com STALLONE’S FORMAL WEAR Chesterfield, 636-519-7111 Ladue, 314-997-8900 Maryland Heights, 314-576-5900 South County, 314-729-0004 O’Fallon, 636-272-4799 www.stallonesformalwear.com

TAILORED GENTS AT SAVILE ROW 8101 Maryland Avenue 314-721-7848 www.tailoredgents.com

GIFTS, FAVORS, HOSPITALITY BAGS AND ACCESSORIES COOP’S COTTON CANDY 573-432-4372 www.CoopsCottonCandy.com

WASHINGTON MISSOURI 636-239-2715 www.visitwashmo.com

FLORAL PRESERVATION VARIA, LLC FLOWER PRESERVATION www.Varia-LLC.com

FLORISTS ALWAYS IN BLOOM 3300 Watson Road 314-781-1717 www.AlwaysInBloomStLouis.com ARTISTRY 2734 LaSalle Street 314-772-1301 www.ArtistryFlorist.com BELLI FIORI 2705 LaSalle Street 314-772-1301 www.BelliFioriStl.com FLORAL PLAY 210 Old Dorsett Road 314-277-6145 www.FloralPlay.com THE PRICKLY THISTLE 314-529-7797 www.ThePricklyThistle.com QUEEN BEE BLOOMS 13063 Spanish Pond Road 636-643-6494 www.QueenBeeBlooms.com ROSES AND MINT 20 MB Corporate Park Ct., St. Charles 314-502-9950 www.RosesAndMint.com WILDFLOWERS 1013 Ohio 314-772-9900 www.WildflowersSTL.com

FORMALWEAR

Also see BRIDAL GOWNS & SALONS on page 198 SAVVI FORMALWEAR Alton Square Mall, 618-465-1110 Columbia Mall, 573-445-6602 Mid Rivers Mall, 636-970-2281 St. Clair Square, 618-632-8415 Saint Louis Galleria, 314-727-0088 South County Center, 314-894-2991 University City Loop, 314-725-2150

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ESSENTIAL GUIDE CROWN CANDY KITCHEN 1401 St. Louis Avenue 314-621-9650 www.CrownCandyKitchen.net

HEARTH & SOUL 9640 Clayton Road 314-567-SOUL www.hearthandsoul.com

THIRD DEGREE GLASS FACTORY 5200 Delmar Blvd 314-367-4527 www.stlglass.com

EYE CANDY CONFETTI NEON SIGNS hello@eyecandyconfetti.com www.eyecandyconfetti.com

POP POP HURRAY! 256 South Florissant Road 314-733-5350 3730 Foundry Way 314-733-535 www.poppophurray.com

WARSON WOODS ANTIQUE GALLERY 10091 Manchester Road 314-909-0123 www.MissouriAntiqueMalls.com

HONEYMOONS TRAVEL HAUS OF ST. LOUIS 11229 Concord Village Ave 314-842-6000 www.travelhausstlouis.com

re Than We're Mo house! oke Just a Sm Traditional BBQ Favorites Specialty Sandwiches | Daily Specials

INVITATIONS/STATIONERS LEIGHWOOD DESIGN STUDIO www.leighwooddesignstudio.com PERFETTA PAPER STUDIO 314-221-8035 www.perfettapaperstudio.com

JEWELRY FIRE AND FACET STUDIOS 601A E. Lockwood Ave. 314-731-6008 www.fireandfacetstudios.com THE SILVER LADY 6364 Delmar Blvd. 314-727-0704 www.thesilver-lady.com TIMEKEEPERS 17 N. Meramec, Clayton 314-721-4548 www.timekeepersclayton.com 11118 Olive Blvd., Creve Coeur 314-991-0994 www.timekeepersstl.com

LIGHTING & DÉCOR ALOBAR’S INC 716 Hanley Industrial Court 314-781-7600 www.alobars.com COMPLETE WEDDINGS + EVENTS WE DO PHOTOGRAPHY, VIDEO, PHOTO BOOTH & LIGHTING 314-991-5656 www.completewedo.com/st-louis EXCLUSIVE EVENTS 13633 Lakefront Drive 314-995-7282 www.exclusiveeventsinc.com

636.529.1898

dailessmokehouse.com Catering: 314.243.8740

2951 Dougherty Ferry Road, St. Louis, MO 63122

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HIGH CLASS DJ’S 636-486-6670 www.HighClassDJs.com MILLENNIUM PRODUCTIONS 8269 Brentwood Industrial Drive 314-918-9335 www.millenniumproductions.com

ESSENTIAL GUIDE TKO 314.647.3000 www.tko-djs.com

MOTHER OF THE BRIDE/ SPECIAL OCCASION MIMI’S BRIDAL AT TOWN & COUNTRY 2730 N. Ballas Road 314-863-7200 www.mimisbridaltownandcountry.com

OFFICIANTS ENDY EVENTS 636-251-3639 www.EndyEvents.com IT’S OFFICIAL 314! WEDDINGS AND CEREMONIES 314-479-9241 www.itsofficial314.com

THE LOVE STORYTELLER 314-605-7804 www.thelovestoryteller.com

PHOTOBOOTHS COMPLETE WEDDINGS + EVENTS WE DO PHOTOGRAPHY, VIDEO, PHOTO BOOTH & LIGHTING 314-991-5656 www.completewedo.com/st-louis

THE VAULT LUXURY RESALE 2325 S. Brentwood Blvd. 314-736-6511 www.thevaultluxuryresalecom

MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT ALL MIXED UP BAND www.AllMixedUpBand.com COMPLETE WEDDINGS + EVENTS WE DO PHOTOGRAPHY, VIDEO, PHOTO BOOTH & LIGHTING 314-991-5656 www.completewedo.com/st-louis GOLD STANDARD MUSICIANS www.GoldStandardMusicians.com HIGH CLASS DJ’S 636-486-6670 www.HighClassDJs.com MANHASSET STRINGS 636-537-0405 www.ManhassetStrings.com MILLENNIUM PRODUCTIONS 8269 Brentwood Industrial Drive 314-918-9335 www.MillenniumProductions.com SHOW ME SOUND 573-340-5558 www.ShowMeSound.com SPECTRUM BAND 314-610-0128 www.SpectrumBand.net SPECTRUM TRIO 314-610-0128 www.SpectrumBand.net/Spectrum-Trio TKO 314.647.3000 www.tko-djs.com

ONLINE PLANNING GREAT RIVERS & ROUTES www.riversandroutes.com SAINT LOUIS BRIDE MAGAZINE www.BrideStl.com WASHINGTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 636-239-2715 www.visitwashmo.com

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ESSENTIAL GUIDE FÊTE BOOTH PHOTO BOOTH 618-541-1383 www.fetebooth.com

ST. LOUIS PHOTO PARTY 314-356-8940 www.stlphotoparty.com

FISH EYE FUN 314-621-8638 www.FishEyeFun.com

PHOTOGRAPHERS

COMPLETE WEDDINGS + EVENTS WE DO PHOTOGRAPHY, VIDEO, PHOTO BOOTH & LIGHTING 314-991-5656 www.completewedo.com/st-louis

THE BENNETTS PHOTOGRAPHY 573-480-4610 www.TheBennettsPhoto.com

ENDY EVENTS 636-251-3639 www.EndyEvents.com

GLOW BOOTH STL 314-304-8886 www.GlowBooths.com

KELLY PARK PHOTOGRAPHY 314-570-7413 www.KellyParkPhotography.com KINDLED FILMS 314-406-6018 www.KindledFilms.com

Celebrate Your “I DO” with Bogart’s BBQ!

MEMORIES ARE FOREVER 618-560-4503 www.memoriesareforever.com MICHELLE JAHNS PHOTOGRAPHY www.MichelleJPhotography.com SARAH CORBETT PHOTOGRAPHY 314-369-9961 www.SarahCorbettPhotography.com TRULY MOMENTS 317-690-4109 www.TrulyMoments.com WHITE KLUMP PHOTOGRAPHY 314-471-8027 www.WhiteKlumpPhotography.com ZACH DALIN PHOTOGRAPHY 7128 Pershing Avenue 314-941-6253 www.ZachDalin.com ZETTL PHOTOGRAPHY www.ZettlPhoto.com

PLANNERS & CONSULTANTS CELEBRATE BY CECE 314-441-5562 www.celebratebycece.com COORDINATING WITH CATHERINE 573-714-4275 www.CoordinatingWithCatherine.com DIVINE EVENTS 314-669-5933 www.mydivineevents.com FLOURISH EVENTS 314-803-8134 www.flourishstl.com

Weddings | Rehearsal Dinners | Showers 314.603.2003

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HAWTHORNE CREATIVE WEDDING + EVENT CO. 573-344-9249 www.HawthorneCreativeCo.com HILLARY J EVENTS 636-675-0523 www.HillaryJEvents.com

6/3/21 3:48 PM

ESSENTIAL GUIDE MAUREEN RENÉE EVENTS 314-800-0660 www.maureenreneeevents.com ONE FOXY AFFAIR 314-699-4450 www.OneFoxyAffair.com REVEL & WONDER WEDDINGS 314-920-7824 www.revelwonderwed.com SAPPHIRE SQUARE EVENTS www.sapphiresquareevents.com SIGNED SEALED DELIVERED EVENTS + WEDDINGS 314-789-3211 www.SignedSealedDeliveredEvents.com

RECEPTION SITES

See RECEPTION SITE GRID on page 188.

REGISTRY CRATE AND BARREL 1 The Boulevard 314-725-6380 www.crateandbarrel.com HEARTH & SOUL 9640 Clayton Road 314-567-SOUL www.hearthandsoul.com MACY’S St. Louis Galleria, 314-726-1810 Mid Rivers, 636-278-6660 St. Clair Square, 618-624-2000 West County Center, 314-966-0017 www.macys.com/locator

REHEARSAL DINNERS, SHOWERS & BRUNCHES

Also see RECEPTION SITE GRID on Page 188 and CATERERS beginning on page 199. BARNETT ON WASHINGTON 3207 Washington Avenue 844-462-2763 www.barnettonwashington.com BROOKDALE FARMS 8004 Twin Rivers Road, Eureka 636-938-1005 www.brookdalefarms.com CARDINALS NATION 601 Clark Street - Ballpark Village 314-345-9880 www.cardinalsnation.com CARDINALS SPECIAL EVENTS 700 Clark Street - Busch Stadium 314-345-9630 www.cardinals.com/events CELEBRATING LIFE CAKE BOUTIQUE 13877 Manchester Road 636-458-7727 www.CelebratingLifeCakes.com

PHOTOGRAPHY • VIDEOGRAPHY DJ • PHOTO BOOTH • COORDINATION

314.991.5656 completestlouis.com

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ESSENTIAL GUIDE CHARLIE GITTO’S “ON THE HILL” 5226 Shaw Avenue 314-772-8898 www.charliegittos.com

WHY CHOOSE FUN TYME LIMOUSINE? • Our fleet consists of a wide variety of vehicles from 1 passenger up to 44 passengers. • Pricing includes – fuel, pickup, drop off, unlimited stops, bottled water, soda, and champange. • We specialize in luxury limousine service for Weddings, Bachelor & Bachelorette Parties, Airport Transports and more. • Our chauffeurs are professionally trained and take pride in their work.

THE CHESHIRE 6300 Clayton Road 314-647-7300 www.cheshirestl.com CITY COTTAGE ON CHOUTEAU 3800 Chouteau Avenue 314-961-7588 www.cateringstlouis.com CYRANO’S CAFÉ 603 E. Lockwood Ave. 314-963-3232 www.cyranos.com THE FOUNTAIN ON LOCUST 3037 Locust 314-649-0567 www.fountainonlocust.com GATEWAY ARCH RIVERBOATS 50 S. Leonor K. Sullivan Blvd. 314-923-3047 www.gatewayarch.com GUIDO’S 5046 Shaw Ave - The Hill 314-771-4900 www.guidosstl.com LA BONNE BOUCHÉE 12344 Olive Blvd. 314-576-6606 www.LaBonneBouchee.com LILIANA’S COTTLEVILLE 3891 Mid Rivers Mall Drive, Cottleville 636-477-5550 www.lilianascottleville.com THE LODGE AT GRANT’S TRAIL BY ORLANDOS 4398 Hoffmeister 314-638-3340 www.lodgeatgrantstrail.com OLD HICKORY GOLF CLUB 1 Dye Club Drive, St. Peters 636-477-8960 www.oldhickorygc.com OLIVA ON THE HILL 4915 Daggett Street 314-961-7588 www.cateringstlouis.com

Serving artisan hand-dipped ice cream for receptions or rehearsal dinners from our custom designed ice cream cart. We will serve you and your guests anywhere in the Metro-area! Book us now at www.SlingnScoops.com | 618-444-7298 206

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THE RIDGE ROOM EVENT SPACE 60 North Gore Ave. 314-724-7413 www.RidgeRoomStl.com SQWIRES 1415 South 18th Street 314-865-3522 www.sqwires.com THE VENUE AT MAISON DU LAC 2603 Wild Plum Valley Road, Catawissa 314-991-6700 www.thevenuestl.com

ESSENTIAL GUIDE RENTALS ALL SEASONS LINEN 8312 Olive Blvd 314 983-0090 www.allseasonslinen.com ALOBAR’S INC 716 Hanley Industrial Court 314-781-7600 www.alobars.com

Coop’s Cotton Candy - all the ﬂuff,

none of the fake. It’s the elevated treat your sweet tooth’s been waiting for! • • • • • •

Dye-free and allergy-friendly Certiﬁed vegan Gluten-free Nut-free Parve/kosher Made with USDA organic cane sugar

EXCLUSIVE EVENTS 13633 Lakefront Drive 314-995-7282 www.exclusiveeventsinc.com EYE CANDY RENTALS BACKDROPS 618-541-1383 www.eyecandyrentals.com LIFE LIGHTS 618-401-7413 www.getlitwithlifelights.com TRAUBE TENTS & STRUCTURES 800-352-TENT www.traubetent.com ZHUZH RENTALS 7529 Forsyth Boulevard 314-257-9960 www.zhuzh.rentals

COOPSCOTTONCANDY@GMAIL.COM

All cotton candy is spun fresh for your event, either on site or custom packaged. Savor the nostalgia of your childhood with ingredients you trust and an experience you’ll remember!

SPECIAL TOUCHES EYE CANDY CONFETTI NEON SIGNS hello@eyecandyconfetti.com www.eyecandyconfetti.com GOOD ICE 3942 Laclede Avenue 636-544-4215 www.GoodIceSTL.com INK AND PATCH 400 Lemay Ferry Road, Suite 100 314-899-9860 www.InkAndPatch.com

SPECIALTY SERVICES WEDPETS www.wedpets.com

TRANSPORTATION BEST TRANSPORTATION 4628 Crossroads Industrial Drive 314-989-1500 www.besttransportation.com FUN TYME LIMOUSINE 314-313-LIMO www.funtymelimo.com

VIDEOGRAPHERS COMPLETE WEDDINGS + EVENTS WE DO PHOTOGRAPHY, VIDEO, PHOTO BOOTH & LIGHTING 314-991-5656 www.completewedo.com/st-louis

Music by

The Manhasset St�ing Quar�et Marily�

636-346-3844

manhassetst�ings.com Manhasset String Quartet Our professional string quartet will add that special touch of elegance and style to your event. We offer an extensive variety of music from the classics to the contemporary. Whether it is your wedding, dinner or reception, we will work with you to design the music of your dreams to make your celebration a magical one.

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ESSENTIAL GUIDE FIRST TWIN FILMS www.firsttwinfilms.com FOREVERMOORE PHOTO + FILM 217-415-8389 www.ForeverMooreFilms.com WESTVIEW MEDIA 314-726-6222 www.westviewmedia.com ZACH DALIN PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEO 7128 Pershing Avenue 314-941-6253 www.zachdalin.com

WEDDING SHOWS WEDDING CONNECTION Sunday, January 18, 2026 from 12 - 4:00pm The Ritz-Carlton Saint Louis 100 Carondelet Plaza. Clayton www.BrideSTL.com BRIDE ST. LOUIS – 2026 WEDDING SHOWS Sunday, January 4, 11am - 4pm St. Louis Science Center Sunday, January 11, Noon - 3pm Historic John B. Busch Brewery, Washington, MO Sunday, February 1, Noon - 3pm The Foundry Art Centre — St. Charles Sunday, February 15, Noon - 3pm Holiday Inn — Columbia, MO Sunday, February 22, Noon - 3pm The Fountain Conf. Center, Fairview Heights, IL Sunday, March 1, Noon - 3pm The Christy Banquet Center, O’Fallon, MO www.BrideStLouis.com OFF WHITE – THE WEDDING SHOW Sunday, March 1, 2026 from 12 - 3:30pm The Chase Park Plaza — Royal Sonesta Hotel www.OffWhiteSTL.com/tickets THE ONE WEDDING SHOW Saturday, January 10, 2026 from 12 - 3pm St. Charles Convention Center Sunday, August 2, 2026 from 12 - 4pm Ameristar St. Charles www.TheOneWeddingShow.com

Cardinals Nation Restaurant & Bar Cardinals Nation Restaurant & Bar is the perfect place to celebrate your special occasion. Our experienced staff is standing by to help you plan your rehearsal dinner, engagement party, shower or reception. From local favorites to innovative creations, the dining experience is matched only by the world championship service. Private rooms, including the Cardinals Hall of Fame & Museum, are available to add a touch of exclusivity and enhance your overall experience. Contact us to make a reservation or to book an event. cardinalsnation.com | specialevents@cardinals.com | 314-345-9880 208 Untitled-18 1

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MAKING IT LEGAL Though procuring a wedding license isn’t quite as complicated as the wedding itself, it helps to know the rules. Here they are: 1. All applicants in Missouri and Illinois must receive a license before the ceremony; Saint Louis Bride recommends a minimum of 24 hours. Blood tests are not required in either state. 2. A Missouri license is valid for thirty days from its effective date; an Illinois license for sixty days.

MAKING IT LEGAL 3. Both bride and groom must apply in person. In Missouri, you may apply for a license at any office provided the wedding is to take place within the state. In Illinois, you must apply for and receive a license from the county in which the ceremony will take place. CITY OF ST. LOUIS City Hall, 1200 Market Street, Room 127 Hours: 8a.m.-5p.m. Mon.-Fri. ID: State ID/driver’s license, proof of social security number if absent from license Phone: 314-622-3257 Fee: $48 (cash only) ST. LOUIS COUNTY St. Louis County Government Center 41 S. Central Avenue (4th floor), Clayton Hours: Mon., Wed., Fri. 8a.m.-5p.m.; Tues. and Thu. 8a.m.-6p.m. ID: State ID/driver’s license, proof of social security number; if under 18, must be accompanied by custodial parent/legal guardian with guardianship papers ($1.00 fee), must present certified copy of birth certificate Phone: 314-615-7180 Fee: $45 (cash only) FRANKLIN COUNTY Government Center 400 E. Locust, Room 102 (Union) Hours: 8a.m.- 4:30p.m. Mon.-Fri. ID: proof of social security number Phone: 636-583-6367 Fee: $46 (cash only)

Best Fit, Service, Style and Price Stallone’s Formal Wear Visit our store and you will be convinced there is a difference in where you purchase or rent your formal wear. Worldwide Service for Out-of-Town Wedding Party. Maryland Hts | 87 Progress Parkway 314-576-5900 Ladue | 9644 Clayton Rd 314-997-8900 O’Fallon | 2392 Hwy K 636-272-4799 South County | 5714 S. Lindbergh 314-729-0004 www.stallonesformalwear.com Entirely Fitting Since 1899 Sales & Rentals Tuxedos/Suits

ST. CHARLES COUNTY St. Charles County Admin. Building 201 N. 2nd Street, Room 338 Hours: 8a.m.-5p.m. Mon.-Fri. ID: driver’s license, proof of social security number if absent from license; if 15-17, must be accompanied by custodial parent ($1.00 fee), 18 and under must present certificate of birth as well Phone: 636-949-7505 Fee: $48 (cash only) JEFFERSON COUNTY Jefferson County Administration Center, Room 126, Maple Street (Hillsboro) Hours: 8a.m.-5p.m. Mon.-Fri. ID: driver’s license Phone: 636-797-5415 Fee: $51 (cash only) ST. CLAIR COUNTY Illinois, County Clerk’s Office 10 Public Square (Belleville) Hours: 8:30a.m.-4:30p.m. Mon.-Fri.; 8:30a.m.-12:00p.m. Sat. ID: two valid forms of ID (i.e. driver’s license, social security card) Phone: 618-277-6600 x2388 Fee: $32 (cash, money order or local check) MADISON COUNTY Illinois, Administration Building 157 N. Main Street, Suite 109 (Edwardsville) Hours: 8:30a.m.-4:30p.m. Mon.-Fri. ID: State ID, driver’s license Phone: 618-692-6290 Fee: $30 (cash only)

Day of Wedding Management Partial Planning Services Full Planning Services Catherine Brooks Owner info@coordinatingwithcatherine.com SPRING/SUMMER 2026 • BRIDESTL.COM

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Style

That Perfect Something Varia LLC Flower Preservation

Visit www.bridestl.com for more information

Make your wedding flowers last longer than a day! Preserve them in resin, pressed frames, shadow boxes and more!

— A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION —

www.varia-llc.com

Timekeepers Specializing in Repair, Restoration, Purchase, and Sale of Fine Jewelry, Timepieces, and Music Boxes. Our services also include Custom Jewelry Design, Hand Engraving, and Laser Engraving. We proudly offer a selection of unique Estate Jewelry and exceptional Timepieces, perfect for Bridesmaids, Groomsmen, or anyone deserving of something truly special. The Estate Jewelry Experts 17N. Meramec Ave - Clayton 11118 Olive Blvd - Creve Coeur (314) 721-4548 (314) 991-0994 www.timekeepersclayton.com www.timekeepersolive.net

Spectrum Band Spectrum Band is a variety dance band based in St. Louis that specializes in live music for weddings! This talented group of professional musicians perform a wide “Spectrum” of popular genres of music. They have received The Knot’s “Best of Weddings” and Wedding Wire’s “Couple’s Choice” awards for eleven consecutive years. They love entertaining audiences with their energetic and professional performances. If you’re looking for a lively, fun, and experienced band for your wedding, Spectrum Band is the band for you. www.spectrumband.net • 314-610-0128

TKO Glow Booth We Can’t Wait to Party With You! www.glowbooths.com • inquire@glowboothstl.com • 314-304-8886

TKO has been turning dreams into memories since 1984. While other companies have come and gone, TKO remains the largest locally owned and operated entertainment provider in the St. Louis area. At TKO, our experienced team will help you personalize the perfect soundtrack to your day! Call, email or stop by our office today to find out about the TKO difference. www.tko-djs.com | 314.647.3000

— REHEARSALS, BRUNCHES & SHOWERS —

Crown Candy Let the family traditions of Crown Candy Kitchen be a part of your special day. From welcome gift baskets, rehearsal dinner thank yous and reception favors, our rich chocolate is handmade just for you. Let us help create the sweetest memories for your family and friends. Select from our moulded chocolate bars, hand dipped nuts, caramels & cremes or customize the perfect gift. www.crowncandykitchen.com • info@crowncandykitchen.com • 314-621-7229

Celebrating Life Cake Boutique Celebrating Life Cake Boutique has the perfect space for showers and brunches right inside the bakery! Our space has plenty of room for your guests to mingle, neutral tables and chairs that work with your decorations, and some sweet backdrops for adorable photos. Plus with cakes and confections baked on-site, everyone can indulge in the most exquisite desserts around! 13877 Manchester Rd., 63011 - 636-458-7727 celebratinglifecakes@gmail.com - www.celebratinglifecakes.com

All Mixed Up is St. Louis’s premier wedding dance and party band, guaranteed to pack your dance floor from the first song to the last. We deliver nonstop, instantly recognizable dance hits from every era powered by our 7-piece live band and highenergy live DJ. We can provide music and entertainment for every part of your event — ceremony, cocktail hour, dinner, reception. Bookings include our live DJ, pro-grade sound and lighting, wireless mics for toasts, full emceeing, and seamless A/V access for your videographers. We will partner with your vendors to make your event stress-free and unforgettable. Dates fill fast so reserve yours today! allmixedupband.com • allmixedupband@gmail.com • (314) 412-3490

Good Ice Make your big day unforgettable with Good Ice. From elegant ice sculptures to

personalized engraved cubes, we craft stunning, custom pieces that add a touch of luxury to your wedding. Impress your guests and elevate every detail—because your love story deserves to shine in crystal-clear ice. 3942 Laclede Avenue 636-544-4215 www.goodicestl.com

Knotting Hills Wedding + Event Venue The Garden at Knotting Hills is one of two stunning ceremony locations at The Main Venue. A timeless backdrop for your vows, it is framed by flourishing greenery and a cascading fountain. The Garden also transitions perfectly for cocktail hour, featuring a speakeasy-style bar and extensive grounds for guests to explore.

Piazza Messina All-inclusive event venue in Saint Charles, Missouri, where your dream wedding becomes a reality. Owned by the experienced Russo’s Catering family, this venue combines decades of expertise to make your special day extraordinary. From your first consultation with our expert event planners to the wedding meal of your dreams, our professional team ensures the planning process and your special day are enjoyable in every way. 5535 State Highway N, Cottleville, MO 63304 636-232-0109 • PiazzaMessina.com

— REHEARSALS, BRUNCHES & SHOWERS —

Olive + Oak

The Weingarten Let The Weingarten provide an unforgettable experience, while you enjoy the serene backdrop of our country farmstead. Located in Belleville, Illinois, our rustic Party Barn can host seated events for up to 88 guests, but if an outdoor setting is preferred, our Garden Tent provides ample seating for up to 200 people. Your guests can enjoy drinks on your private patio-space, included with your rental, and choose from menus offering hors d’oeuvres to a full-seated dinner. 1780 E St. Rt 15, Belleville, IL 62221 • 618-257-9463 theweingarten.com • events@theweingarten.com

Hospitality is at the heart of what we do here at Olive + Oak. Receptions, rehearsal dinners, engagement celebrations, and showers alike receive a carefully curated experience. Our team’s passions lie within providing an exceptional food and beverage journey and standout service to match. No matter your group size, we have a spot for you to gather around our table. 216 West Lockwood Avenue Webster Groves, Missouri | 63119 314.764.4184 oliveandoak.oohosp.com/events

Charlie Gitto’s St. Louis’ Favorite Italian Dining Experience and the perfect setting for your rehearsal dinner, as well as, welcome and post-wedding send-off events. Charlie Gitto’s On the Hill 5226 Shaw Ave., St. Louis, MO 63110 314.772.8898 Charlie Gitto’s at Hollywood Casino 777 Casino Center Drive, Maryland Height, MO 63043 314.770.7663 www.charliegittos.com

Butler’s Pantry Your wedding deserves thoughtful hospitality at every step. Butler’s Pantry offers full-service catering for rehearsals, welcome events, and wedding days in our exclusive venues or any setting you choose. For showers, morning-of bites, and smaller moments, our Entertaining Now drop-off menus offer a simple yet elevated option. 1414 Park Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63104 • (314) 664-7680

Saint Louis Zoo Located in the heart of beautiful Forest Park, the Saint Louis Zoo offers the most unique venues available for your intimate gathering or ornate reception. Whether you envision your special day in a lush garden or near a moonlit veranda, the Zoo’s event planners will ensure every detail is executed to perfection. Your event will be impeccably catered, with gourmet entrees prepared by our culinary experts. We would love to work with you to make your dream event a reality. 314-646-4855 stlzoo.org/booking

Presentation Hall Event Space + Catering Presentation Hall is located beneath a beautiful Catholic church built in 1915 in Overland, MO. The venue accommodates up to 300 guests and offers the flexibility to bring in your own food and beverages or choose professional catering. If you’re looking for an affordable, welcoming space to host your next celebration, this is the perfect spot. You can hold your ceremony in the stunning historic church, then have your guests walk directly downstairs for the reception—simple, seamless, and convenient. Presentation Hall rental includes off-street parking, tables and chairs, a stage with audio and visual equipment, a bar with refrigeration, and spacious restrooms. 8860 Tudor Avenue, Overland, MO 63114 eric.vogel@eatwalnut.com 314-600-4097 www.walnutcatering.com

— REHEARSALS, BRUNCHES & SHOWERS —

The Franklin of Soulard At The Franklin of Soulard, timeless character meets modern hospitality in a space designed for gathering. Whether you’re hosting an intimate rehearsal dinner, a lively welcome party, or a post-wedding brunch, our historic venue, warm service, and chef-driven menu create a celebration your guests will remember. From “yes” to “I do” and every event in between, we make hosting effortless. Contact us today to start planning! events@thefranklinofsoulard.com www.thefranklinofsoulard.com 816 Allen Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63104

Westwind Hills Host an unforgettable rehearsal dinner or welcome party at Westwind Hills, where versatile spaces and exceptional cuisine set the stage for a perfect celebration. With accommodations for 50 to 300 guests, we offer a range of dining experiences from hot hors d’oeuvres to full dinners, with a variety of culinary options to suit any taste. Enjoy al fresco dining on our scenic patio, relax under the covered veranda with weather protection, or opt for the comfort of our elegant indoor spaces. At Westwind Hills, your pre-wedding festivities will be as memorable as your big day. www.westwindhills.com | 1641 Highway OO Pacific, MO 63069

Le Meridien Hotel

Hyatt Regency St. Louis at The Arch

Your rehearsal dinner at Le Meridien St. Louis Clayton will be vividly remembered and fondly recalled. Host the celebration before the celebration through a tapestry of choices and customizations at Café la Vie with a 15% discount on your rehearsal dinner when you book your wedding at Le Meridien St. Louis Clayton in 2023 and 2024. For more information or to book, contact our sales department at sales@lemeridienclayton.com or 314-719-4308.

Hyatt is an ideal venue for all your wedding related events. Book your wedding reception with us and take 10% off your bridal shower, rehearsal dinner or brunch. Let us host your personalized bridal shower to kick off your wedding festivities. Entertain your closest friends and family in one of our private event spaces for your rehearsal dinner. The perfect ending to the perfect weekend is brunch at Hyatt. We’ll help you customize menus for each event so you can concentrate on preparing for your big day. Contact our Events and Sales Department 314.342.4655 • salesstlrs@hyatt.com • 315 Chestnut Street, St. Louis, MO 63102 hyattregencystlouis.com

Extraorinary Welcome to

Panorama Panorama, the upscale café at the Saint Louis Art Museum, is the picture-perfect venue for your rehearsal dinner. Enjoy our chef ’s beautiful cuisine inspired by the Museum’s art. Panorama is named after its sweeping views of Forest Park through floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Art Hill. One Fine Arts Drive - Forest Park 314-655-5387 www.slam.org

The Dogwood in The Grove The Dogwood is a cozy-chic venue in a vibrant city neighborhood, perfect for celebrations of all types. The venue offers five separate spaces including the main floor and bar, our bright and airy second floor with bar, an outdoor terrace, a lush garden, and bridal suite and groom’s quarters to accommodate celebrations both large and intimate. Events at The Dogwood are catered exclusively by The Social Affair and include custom menu design, delicious from-scratch food, curated bar packages, and our friendly and hospitable service. Welcome to Extraordinary! 4308 Manchester Avenue St. Louis, MO 63110 www.thedogwoodstl.com

— REHEARSALS, BRUNCHES & SHOWERS —

Create the wedding experience of your dreams starting with a personalized consultation.

Hilton St. Louis Frontenac True to the French influence of the suburb it calls home, the Hilton St. Louis Frontenac is a destination synonymous with elegance and comfort where professional staff awaits dedicated to making every event memorable. The Ambassadeur & Clayton Ballrooms will accommodate groups from 25-600 guests and our 263 beautifully appointed guest rooms offer comfort and style in one of Saint Louis’ most prestigious communities. 1335 South Lindbergh Blvd.; St. Louis, MO 63131 314.993.1100 • www.stlouisfrontenac.hilton.com

Kate Hunter Director of Catering Sales Katherine.Hunter@ritzcarlton.com 314-863-6300 Ritzcarlton.com/stlouis

Old Hickory Golf Club

The Lodge at Grant’s Trail

Old Hickory Golf Club #1 Dye Club Dr., St. Peters, MO 63304 636-477-8960 | www.oldhickorygc.com

Located in South County, this unique bed and breakfast is perfect for Wedding Receptions, Ceremonies, Rehearsal Dinners, and Showers. The Lodge features a cozy three-story fireplace with an impressive wall of windows. With seating from 35 to125 guests, it’s an ideal venue for your intimate gathering. The Lodge also features nine uniquely themed guest rooms for overnight accommodation, with complimentary breakfast included. 4398 Hoffmeister Avenue • For Reservations call 314.638.3340. www.LodgeAtGrantsTrail.com

“Host your rehearsal dinner in style at Old Hickory Golf Club. Our elegant spaces, attentive service, and customizable menus create the perfect atmosphere to relax and celebrate with your closest friends and family before the big day. Enjoy a seamless experience from start to finish — our team ensures every detail is handled so you can simply savor the moment.”

Ameristar Casino Resort Spa When celebrating your love deserves more than a single day, choose a location that can host every memory under one roof. From micro weddings to lavish affairs, From rehearsal dinners to celebratory brunches, From bachelorette parties to pre-wedding spa pampering, Unforgettable celebrations are uniquely yours at Ameristar Casino Resort Spa Learn how we make events remarkable by calling 636.940.4364 or visiting us at AmeristarStCharles.com

Anheuser-Busch Biergarten Located in the heart of downtown St. Louis, MO, The Biergarten at Anheuser-Busch is a perfect Rehearsal Dinner venue! Our small, intimate spaces provide a relaxing atmosphere to dine and socialize before the big day. Entertain guests in one of our event spaces available and enjoy a crisp beer while creating long-lasting memories. 1200 Lynch St., St Louis, MO | (314) 765-3260 www.budweisertours.com/stlprivateevents | @homeofbud

— REHEARSALS, BRUNCHES & SHOWERS —

Seven Gables Inn A Tribute Portfolio Seven Gables Inn is a perfect spot for intimate receptions, ceremonies, showers, and rehearsal dinners where guests are welcomed by a warm atmosphere and charm. Featuring historic detail, modern amenities and an attentive staff makes for the perfect combination for memorable occasions. Offering catering for gatherings up to 150 with custom options to make each gathering one of a kind. 26 N. Meramec Avenue, • Clayton, MO 63105 • 314-863-8400 www.SevenGablesInn.com *Mention this ad and receive complimentary Champagne toast when you book your event with us.

Cardinals Special Events With options in Busch Stadium and Cardinals Nation for groups of all sizes, Cardinals Special Events has the right venue for your rehearsal dinner. Let us help make your wedding weekend one for the record books! Request additional information today cardinals.com/events 314-345-9630

612North Event Space + Catering 612North is located in the historic Laclede’s Landing Cutlery Building, encompassing three spaces each unique in their own styles. Modern meets history here. Located next to the iconic St. Louis Arch, 612North delivers an unrivaled paramount dining experience with a mouthwatering menu only made from the finest quality ingredients. Our team is committed to helping you create the perfect backdrop for your celebration. 612 North 2nd Street, Saint Louis, MO 63102 • 314-899-0612 Contact: events@612north.com • www.612north.com

Marriott St. Louis Grand A Pairing of Tastes. A Marriage of Flavors. When it comes to rehearsal dinners, our culinary staff at the Marriott St. Louis Grand will work with you to create menus that reflect your own special style. Maybe there’s a family tradition passed down from generations you want to keep, or cultures brought together in a special way. You may want to break a few rules or combine ideas to make it your own. No matter what you have envisioned, we’ll work hard to make it a reality. You’ll be so happy you said yes to the Marriott St. Louis Grand. 800 Washington Avenue • 314-418-5820 • MarriottStLouisGrand.com

Guido’s Located Hill”, Located in the heart of “The Hill”, Guido’s Pizzeria & Tapas offers aa Guido’s banquet room room for for your your private banquet private event. event. Our Our banquet banquentroom roomcan canaccommodate accomodate up to 50 guests. upWe to 50 guests. We offer an intimate offer an intimate setting with setting with floors, a hardwood floors,hardwood a beautiful fireplace, beautiful fireplace, and bar. a private bar. and a private With such a diverse menu, we are able With able to customize customize your your package package to to to fit fit your your budget. budget. We are open 7 days a week. We are open 7 days a week. Call us for more details on our event space, catering and Call us off for site more details options, on our event space, off site catering options, our our wood fired cuisine mobileand oven. wood fired cuisine mobile oven. guidosstl.com guidosstl.com 5046 Shaw Ave. 5046 Shaw Ave. 314-771-4900 314-771-4900

Moonrise Hotel The Moonrise hotel offers a variety of distinctive event spaces perfect for intimate weddings, rehearsal dinners, showers, brunches and guestroom accommodations. Contact Moonrise Hotel’s wedding specialists sales@moonrisehotel.com

B E Y O N D T H E D A Y | Words of Wisdom LOOKING BACK, ANYTHING YOU WOULD HAVE DONE DIFFERENTLY? “No,” I say without hesitation. “The wedding felt like who we were. We wouldn’t change a thing.”

WHAT IS ONE OF THE MOST VALUABLE THINGS YOU’VE LEARNED ABOUT MARRIAGE? Jim said, “There is give and take on both sides.” I agree, “Marriage is about supporting each other, staying open, and empowering one another to grow. You are on the same team, even on the hard days.”

WHAT RITUALS OR HABITS KEEP YOUR MARRIAGE HAPPY AND HEALTHY? Life gets busy, and it is easy to move through days without truly seeing each other. Jim said, “You have to step back and notice each other.” That simple pause is everything. A breath. A check-in. A reminder that the rest can wait while you come back to one another.

HOW DO YOU KEEP THE ROMANCE ALIVE AFTER BEING MARRIED FOR SO LONG? Jim says, “Date nights, holding hands,

MARIANNE + JIM MOORE

For me, romance is about the everyday. “Cooking dinner together is my favorite,” adding, “It is quiet time for us. No rush. No noise.

s the editor of Saint Louis Bride, I spend my days telling other people’s love

Just being together in the home we created.”

stories. It is one of the greatest privileges of this job. I get to listen as couples

in their bones, and the moments that surprised them. After so many years of sharing everyone

WHAT DO YOU THINK IS THE KEY TO A LONG AND HAPPY MARRIAGE?

else’s stories, it feels like the right time to share a little bit of mine.

Jim says, “Communication and being a better

share the little rituals that made their day meaningful, the choices that felt right

listener.” I agree completely. Listening with patience and curiosity shifts everything.

TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOUR WEDDING.

nothing formal. Just us.” I remember, “We had a

“We were married on August 23, 2002, and it

one-man band Jim booked, and it ended up being

BEST PIECE OF ADVICE FOR A COUPLE JUST BEGINNING THEIR JOURNEY?

was unbelievably hot,” We say this every time,

perfect for the night. And in the middle of the

Jim says, “Really think about your response

it was one of those days when the air barely

reception, Jim took the mic and guitar and sang

before you react. Take a breath.”

moves. We planned our wedding around sailing

this fun, silly little song to me that caught me

because that was our world then. The marina

completely off guard. It was sweet, and so him. I

only the beginning. The real beauty is in the

where we kept our boat was our weekend

will never forget that moment.”

life you build afterward. Choose each other

home, so it felt natural to get married right there on the water. 216

BRIDESTL.COM • SPRING/SUMMER 2026

Jim adds, “We threw a big luau. Fun, relaxed,

The whole day was simple, meaningful, and completely ours.

And I add, “Remember that the wedding is

with intention, even in the messy moments. That ‘s where the magic lives.”

PHOTOS FROM OUR PERSONAL ALBUM

compliments, noticing the little things.”

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