I’ll be completely honest and say that sometimes weddings are so bittersweet for me because while it’s such a joy to celebrate with my sweet couples, it also means my journey with them as their wedding photographer is coming to a close. Drew and Allie’s day makes me tear up just thinking about it because it was that impactful. Their story is one of redemption – of waiting, of prayer, of Jesus. All of that waiting and hoping and seeking came to a culmination this past weekend and it was simply beautiful.

It’s incredible how two people can come together and simultaneously create better versions of each other. Two are better than one… more powerful than one. Drew and Allie complete each other. They make each other better, they radiate together. They love fully and love well, but only because Jesus loved them first. When we first met for coffee, Allie told me about their desire to have their ceremony decorated with empty vases to signify how we come to Jesus – empty, hollow, desperate to be filled. At their reception, those empty jars and vases were filled with flowers to symbolize the way that Jesus fills us up with HIS goodness, grace, and love – overflowing. What a simply beautiful picture of the gospel! I simply adore these two and I hope you’ll enjoy a peek into their gorgeous day!

Everyone began the wedding day prep at the Pear Tree Inn Union Station in St. Louis.

Anyone recognize sweet baby Nora and her beautiful Momma, Sarah?? So fun to have two Jessica Lauren Brides together!!

Drew’s expression when he first saw Allie was absolutely precious. THIS is why I always encourage first looks… they are priceless!!

The girls were such troopers in the crazy, chilly wind!! Loved the the navy dresses for Allie’s house part and combination of blush and navy for bridesmaids!! So beautiful!

They’re MARRIED!!!!

We headed to Downtown St. Louis after the ceremony for Drew and Allie’s bride and groom portraits! Seriously stunning!

The perks of having a wind advisory is that it makes for some epic veil shots!! Allie, your cathedral veil was SO worth it!! :)

Look at those beautiful, full vases at Windows on Washington! Gorgeous! One of my very favorite venues to photograph!

These two were killing it on the dance floor… so much fun!

I can’t even handle how precious this image is… watching Allie’s dance with her Father!

Drew and Allie had a live band for their reception and it was AMAZING!! Having a live band completely changes the mood of a reception and it’s the best!

Congratulations, Drew and Allie!! I am SO excited for you two as you begin this new life together and cannot wait to see what the future holds! Thank you so much for inviting me into your beautiful day… it was such a joy!!

And a huge shoutout to all the wonderful vendors who made Drew & Allie’s day possible!!

Ceremony Venue: Chesterfield Presbyterian Church
Reception Venue: Windows on Washington
Hair and Makeup: Flawless STL
Wedding Dress: Simply Elegant Bridal
Cake: Celebrating Life Cakes
Live Band: Accolade
Groom and Groomsmen Attire: Joseph A Bank
Bridesmaid Skirts: Etsy
Second Photographer: Courtney Smith Photography

Much love,
Jessica Lauren