Words have never been my strong suit. I struggle to find a new way to talk about love and friendship and marriage in a way that hasn’t been done in a better way by someone who is more articulate than me. Which I guess makes sense as photography is my chosen art. But all that being said, this blog post was especially hard to write because I don’t think my words will do justice to how I feel about Eric, Alex and their beautiful day.

If you didn’t know, the three of us, along with many attendees at the wedding, went to Mizzou together. I met Eric through our time at the KCOU, the radio station there. We even had a radio show together entitled Kodachrome. Those times at the radio station, hanging out with other DJs and friends, are some of my favorite memories.

When Eric introduced me to Alex, I had a feeling it was the start of something big. Being around so many couples and attending so many weddings just gives you a sense about these things. I’m so glad I was right.

Eric and Alex are just truly a beautiful pair. They’re loving, kind, hilarious and just fun to be around. After spending time with Eric’s family, who have always been so warm and welcoming to me, and then meeting Alex’s parents, who were generous and kind from the moment we met, it’s easy to see why this pair just works.

I guess I was able to find some words after all, but now I will let these photos tell you the story of Alex And Eric’s love for their friends, family and each other.

 

I started off the day with Eric and his groomsmen, a group who would definitely fail at the try not to laugh challenge. I certainly failed it while with them. They made quick work of getting ready to have a little more time for stories, speeches and, of course, beer.

The day was an on-again-off-again rainy day, but the sun came out when we needed it. The Lemp Mansion looked beautifully historic, nestled between the foliage just starting to change color for fall.

While Alex donned her beautiful dress, I don’t think there was a dry eye in the area. She looked absolutely stunning.

The ceremony was so romantic, taking place underneath a tent, with beautiful floral archway at the front and center. Eric’s face as he saw Alex for the first time was truly something wonderful to see and to capture.

Alex and Eric made a seriously good looking couple, made all the more romantic by the twinkling string lights overhead as we took a few portrait with the last light of the day.

After the photos it was time to party at the Lemp Grand Hall… And let me tell you, this group knows how to party! Between pie pops, coffee bar, singing, dancing, late night hot dogs and more, the reception was a blast.

I always cry during the speeches and I’m surprised I was able to get through these ones at all! Scott’s speech touched everyone in the room, especially as he, a die-hard Cardinals fan, waved the W Flag as a gesture of support for Eric’s Chicago roots… Not a dry eye in the house! But the crying turned to singing as Maggie and Rob raised their glasses and sung Sto Lat, ia traditional Polish song that expresses good wishes, good health and long life to a person, to Eric and Alex.

 

Congratulations Eric and Alex! I’m so happy to have met you, to have known you and to have been able to spend this special day with you. I know you will have so many more special days to come.

 

 

Thank you to the wonderful vendors that made this day possible!

Venues: Lemp Mansion and Grand Hall

Hair: Kim Preston

Makeup: Joey Manley – Notch 

Dress: The Bridal Parlour

Florals: Snapdragon Studios

Officiant: Noel Stephens

Catering: Lemp Mansion

Video: Al Horton – STL Studios

DJ: Jeremy Picker- Rockstar DJ

Cake/Desserts: The Blue Owl Bakery

Photography: Madeline – Madexposure Photography