10 Beautiful Southern Illinois Wedding Venues

Southern Illinois is a hidden gem for couples getting married in the Midwest. Whether you’re from around St. Louis, looking for a unique destination, or just looking for a venue right in your backyard, Southern Illinois has a lot to offer! As you move further downstate closer to Shawnee National Forest, the landscapes get beautiful, textured, and lush. Even if you’re not down for hiking on your wedding day, there are so many stunning wedding venues in Southern Illinois! As a St. Louis-based wedding photographer, I prioritize amenities, an amazing team, and beautiful light when I’m helping couples pick a venue. While it’s tough to narrow it down, I’ve done my best to gather 10 of my favorite Southern Illinois wedding venues from which to choose!

Need wedding planning help and not sure where to start? Get our FREE Timeline Guide!

The Best Wedding Venues In Southern Illinois

The Hangar Wedding and Event Venue

The Hangar | Bryson B Photo

Just outside of Greenville, Illinois, The Hangar Wedding and Event Venue offers a unique blend of modern charm and full service amenities. As a former aircraft hangar, this unique venue boasts a spacious interior with tall ceilings that can accommodate up to 250 guests, making it perfect for both intimate gatherings and bigger celebrations. When I photograph here, I LOVE taking my couples out for sunset photos by the pond and for night photos when the stars come out. Check out one of our full wedding days at The Hangar!

For more information, please visit https://www.thehangarweddingandeventvenue.com/

Style: Modern
Starting Price: $$
Capacity: up to 250
Phone Number: 618-975-6415
Address: 1 Embry Drive, Greenville, IL 62246

A Pocket Full of Sunshine

A Pocket Full of Sunshine | Bryson B Photo

A Pocket Full of Sunshine is a charming, cozy venue located in Mt. Vernon that just oozes natural warmth and beauty. Comfortably seating up to 240 guests, the venue’s main features are a gorgeous barn, covered patio, beautiful pond with a fountain, and an intimate wooded ceremony area. A Pocket Full of Sunshine is one of few venues that can truly pull off a great wedding during any season, all while helping you with your decor, place settings, and offering plenty of dedicated space for getting ready. My first time photographing at Pocket Full of Sunshine, the couple wanted to steal away for some sunset photos. After the short session, I literally turned to the owner, Talia, and asked, “How much did you pay nature to get such amazing light here?!” It was that beautiful.

For more information, please visit https://www.apocketfullofsunshine.info/

Style: Modern Barn
Starting Price: $$
Capacity: up to 240
Phone Number: 618-472-1823
Address: 11384 East Idlewood Road, Mt. Vernon, IL  62864

Olde Wicks Factory

Olde Wicks Factory | Bryson B Photo

One of the largest and most full-featured venues in the area, The Olde Wicks Factory stands as an amazing destination for those dreaming of a stunning wedding day with every amenity you’d expect from a top-notch venue. Sitting in the middle of Highland, Illinois, Olde Wicks is a sprawling, 80,000-square-foot venue and, with its capacity to host up to 500 guests, is truly is a canvas for a vibrant, classy, memorable wedding. The venue has multiple spaces for different wedding vibes, including dedicated “getting ready” spaces, the Grand Hall, The West Hall, The Gatsby Room, The North Patio, The Main Hall, and the Stained Glass Hall. Along with a long list of amenities, Olde Wicks is a great choice for a variety of wedding days!

See my full review of Olde Wicks HERE!

For more information, please visit https://www.oldewicksfactory.com/

Style: Industrial + Architectural
Starting Price: $$$
Capacity: up to 500
Phone Number: (618) 651-6323
Address: 1100 5th St., Highland, IL 62249

Main Street Abbey

Main Street Abbey | Bryson B Photo

Main Street Abbey - Reception | Bryson B Photo

Main Street Abbey, located in Columbia, IL, is a beautifully restored historic church that offers a stunning blend of architectural charm and contemporary styling. With a capacity of up to 250 guests, the Abbey features gorgeous stained glass windows, vaulted ceilings, dedicated prep areas with lots of natural light, and a spacious reception area. This venue provides a timeless setting for any wedding! Pro Tip: Go out for night photos on the patio with your photographer - there are tons of places to get creative!

See a FULL wedding day at Main Street Abbey!

For more information, please visit https://mainstreetabbey.com/

Style: Historic + Church
Starting Price: $$
Capacity: up to 250
Phone Number: (618) 719-2335
Address: 340 S Main St, Columbia, IL 62236

Cedarhurst Center for the Arts

Cedarhurst Center for the Arts in Mt. Vernon is an art lover's dream. This venue can accommodate up to 400 guests and offers both indoor and outdoor spaces surrounded by stunning interiors and a picturesque campus. The entire property includes four unique venues to suit different needs and styles. Make sure to go out for sunset photos! With the pond and so many interesting textures and architectural features, you’ll have endless options to get some amazing photos!

For more information, please visit https://cedarhurst.org/

Style: Gallery + Architectural
Starting Price: $$
Capacity: up to 400
Phone Number: (618) 242-1236
Address: 2600 E Richview Rd, Mt Vernon, IL 62864

Dragonfly Wedding Venue

Dragonfly Wedding Venue is a dreamy, full-featured wedding venue in southern Illinois. Sitting on 36 acres in Herrin, Illinois, Dragonfly is a picturesque location that specializes in outdoor weddings while having plenty of indoor options for ceremonies and receptions. With a capacity of up to 300 guests, Dragonfly offers a serene and natural backdrop for any wedding day. I love photographing this venue, and it really comes alive at night with the abundance of string lights throughout the property. So beautiful!

For more information, please visit https://dragonflyherrin.com/

Style: Nature + Contemporary Barn
Starting Price: $$
Capacity: up to 300
Phone Number: 1(800)942-5395
Address: 1826 West Oak St., Herrin, IL 62948

The Ink House

The Ink House | Bryson B Photo

I just LOVE a wedding venue with cool history! Having formerly been the site of a local newspaper, The Ink House is just that: A sweet venue that just oozes historic charm! Situated in Edwardsville, Illinois, the venue can accommodate up to 250 guests and offers a variety of spaces, including the striking Press Room and a charming outdoor patio. The Ink House is known for its exquisite décor and impeccable service, making it an ideal choice for couples looking for a stylish and seamless wedding day.

For more information, please visit https://www.inkhouseevents.com/

Style: Modern Industrial
Starting Price: $$
Capacity: up to 250
Phone Number: (618) 692-9506
Address: 117 N 2nd St, Edwardsville, IL 62025

Garden Grove Event Center

Garden Grove Event Center in Carbondale, IL, is an all-inclusive, elegant wedding venue that has hosted over 1000 events - ranging from intimate weddings to 300+ guest-count celebrations. Garden Grove offers three distinct locations with distinct ceremony and reception areas: The Courtyard for up to 450 guests, The Loft & Terrace for intimate gatherings, and The Wedding and Event Garden for up to 180 guests. Each space is equipped with getting-ready suites and beautiful styling. With all the surrounding nature and beautiful, open-air ceremony spaces, Garden Grove lights up in the fall when the trees turn colors, though it’s beautiful year-round!

For more information, please visit https://www.gardengroveeventcenter.com/

Style: Ballroom + Garden
Starting Price: $$
Capacity: up to 450
Phone Number: (618) 727-4436
Address: 1215 East Walnut Street, Carbondale, IL, 62901

Loveland Estates

Loveland Estates | Bryson B Photo

Located in Pocahontas, Illinois, Loveland Estates is a modern, cozy waterfront wedding venue that offers tons of amenities and is a gorgeous, turnkey solution for your wedding day.  This modern ranch-inspired wedding venue is nestled among lush scenery on a serene lakefront and provides a stunning backdrop for a modern, “boho-infused,” wedding. With ample indoor and outdoor options for your guests, Loveland Estates can host weddings of up to 215 guests, making it a great choice for larger celebrations. As a photographer, this venue has it all! Amazing light at sunset and a top-notch team make weddings here at Loveland a total joy to capture.

See my FULL review of Loveland Estates

Style: Estate + Greenhouse
Starting Price: $$$
Capacity: up to 215
Email: lovelandestatesevents@gmail.com
Address: 519 Stevenson Dr, Pocahontas, IL 62275

The Woods Event Center

The Woods Event Center in Robinson, IL, nestled beside Crawford County Forest Preserve and near Oak Glen Golf Course, offers a rustic and peaceful setting for weddings. This venue, set on eight acres, accommodates up to 300 guests across its main floor and loft. It features expansive windows for natural light and views, two dedicated getting-ready spaces, a ceremony stage, beautiful vaulted ceilings, and many other amenities that couples would expect from an experienced venue. As its name would suggest, The Woods is surrounded by lush, towering trees and nature. This venue is just breathtaking in any season!

For more information, please visit https://www.thewoodseventcenter.com/

Style: Modern Barn
Starting Price: $$
Capacity: up to 300
Phone Number: +16184693838
Address: 10584 N 600th St, Robinson, IL 62454

Loveland Estates | Bryson B Photo

SOUTHERN ILLINOIS Wedding Venues FAQ

HOW MUCH DOES A WEDDING COST IN SOUTHERN ILLINOIS?

The average cost of a wedding in Southern Illinois was $22,000 between 2016-2019. In 2020 the average cost was brought down to $19,044 due to the rise in elopements related to the effects of the pandemic. However, experts are predicting that cost to rise in 2024 and beyond.

HOW MUCH DO WEDDING VENUES COST IN Southern Illinois?

Venue investments vary widely depending on your guest count, amenity preferences, and of course… Location, location, location! Southern Illinois wedding venues roughly begin at $2,000-$4,000 for 50 people, but average between $6,000-$10,000 for larger weddings.

WHAT IS THE AVERAGE SIZE OF A WEDDING?

Most weddings that I photograph in Southern Illinois are between 80-200 people, while larger non-western weddings can be upwards of 400 people. Micro-weddings usually have 50 guests or fewer, and an elopement typically has fewer than 10 guests. That might consist of the couple, two sets of parents, the officiant, and the photographer.

WHAT SHOULD I LOOK FOR IN A WEDDING VENUE?

I suggest looking for a Southern Illinois wedding venue that can accommodate all parts of the day, too much travel to multiple locations can throw a wrench in your timeline and become more of a hassle than it’s worth. Ideally, a wedding venue has two prep suites, a space for the ceremony and reception, and is centrally located or has onsite opportunities for unique photographs.

WHAT ARE THE MOST POPULAR TYPES OF WEDDING VENUES?

Historic buildings, estates, modern barns, greenhouses, and gardens can all be excellent Southern Illinois wedding venues depending on your needs. Once you’ve booked your venue, the next step is a photographer! Feel free to reach out below or see how I do things differently here.

Looking for a boring, cookie-cutter wedding photographer?

Didn’t think so!

The Olde Wicks Factory | Highland IL Wedding Venue Review

Olde Wicks West Hall | Photo: Bryson B Photo

Have Your Dream Wedding At The Olde Wicks Factory

Nestled just outside of St. Louis in Highland, Illinois, The Olde Wicks Factory stands as a quintessential destination for those dreaming of a stunning, timeless wedding day with every amenity you’d expect from a top-notch venue. As a St. Louis photographer, making beautiful photos and capturing important moments at Olde Wicks is simple. I point my camera lens somewhere, and the venue just sets up gorgeous image after gorgeous image! This sprawling 80,000-square-foot venue, with its capacity to host up to 500 guests, is not just a venue space - it truly is a canvas for a vibrant, classy, memorable wedding. The Olde Wicks Factory, with its varied spaces, abundant natural light, and timeless styling, is a fantastic setting for every important moment of your wedding day.

Are you planning your dream wedding and want to see all the venues in the St. Louis area? Get the definitive STL + Metro area venue master list and find the perfect space for you!

LOCATION: 1100 5th St, Highland, IL 62249
MAX GUEST COUNT: 500

Table of Contents

1. Wedding Day Prep and Where To Get Ready

2. Reception, Cocktail Hour, and Ceremony Spaces

3. Wedding Day Amenities at Olde Wicks Factory

4. What Does a Wedding Cost At Olde Wicks Factory?

5. Olde Wicks Factory Photo Opportunities

6. Olde Wicks Factory Wedding Photographer

Preparing for the Big Day: The Perfect Spaces to Get Ready

Groom Getting Ready at Olde Wicks Factory

Bridal Getting Ready Room at Olde Wicks Factory

The Olde Wicks Factory takes pride in its thoughtfully designed getting-ready spaces. The first prep area, bathed in natural light, features five hair and makeup stations, comfortable seating, a breakfast bar, and a secluded room for some final preparations. On the other side, the secondary prep room has subtle warmth with its cozy wood tones, and is equipped with a TV, pub table, and private bathrooms. Each distinct prep area makes it easy to relax, enjoy your friends and family, and down a couple of mimosas while you’re at it!

Need more help picking the perfect venue? Let me help you as a photographer!

Versatile and Elegant Event Spaces At Olde Wicks

Spread across Olde Wicks’ 80,000 square feet of space are 6 main spaces that play host so many amazing weddings at this venue! Let’s break them down.

The Grand Hall

Wedding Ceremony in The Grand Hall at Olde Wicks

If you’ve seen wedding photos from Olde Wicks, you’ve likely seen the Grand Hall. The Grand hall is a shining example of how light, airy spaces can still feel comforting and elegant. This massive room is adorned with crystal chandeliers, skylights, and a grand 16’ stone fireplace. It comfortably seats 350 guests for meals and up to 400 for ceremonies, making it a perfect choice for both.

The West Hall 

Reception Decor | West Hall

Wedding Party in Olde Wick’s West Hall

Stepping into the West Hall is like taking a walk through history. Built in 1906, its historic charm is immediately evident in the immaculately restored original exposed brick, curved rafters, and century-old hardwood floors. The expansive dance floor is calling for your uncle to get out there and shake it, while the Mill Room Bar and adjacent West Hall Courtyard provide perfect spots for taking a short break from the party. This space, accommodating up to 350 guests, is tailor-made for receptions that blend its historic charm with modern touches.

The Gatsby Room 

The Gatsby Room | Olde Wicks Factory

The Gatsby Room is a testament to the hard work that the team at Olde Wicks has done to restore the venue. Here, turn-of-the-century aesthetics add to the cozy, almost “speakeasy” ambiance. The room's stained glass windows, exposed brick and rafters, and ample seating arrangements, make the Gatsby Room ideal for intimate cocktail hours. With seating for 70 and room for 200 standing guests, the Gatsby Room serves as a versatile space nestled between the Grand and West Halls.

The North Patio 

The North Patio is Olde Wicks’ answer to outdoor weddings, offering a serene escape with its open-air garden and natural wooded surroundings. The stamped concrete and arbor, coupled with a cozy gas fire pit and atmospheric outdoor lighting, create the perfect setting for springtime dinners or outdoor ceremonies. This space can comfortably seat up to 200 for dinner or 300 for a ceremony. I love the North Patio for sunset and night photos, specifically because of the beautiful string lights and the surrounding woods.

Sunset Photos | North Patio

The Main Hall

The Main Hall is the product of the latest renovation project at The Olde Wicks Factory, characterized by its industrial chic design. This spacious hall, with its capacity to host up to 500 guests, is adorned with contemporary touches and is a veritable blank canvas for some awesome wedding decor. The two bars and huge dance floor are perfect if you’re having live music at the reception or are just planning to create some epic reception moments.

The Stained Glass Hall

Originally part of a Pipe Organ showroom, the Stained Glass Hall is a space rich in history and versatility. The stained glass windows cast colorful reflections, creating an almost mystical atmosphere. This room, with its exposed brick and spacious layout, is ideal for smaller, more intimate weddings or banquets. Seating 120 for meals and 150 for ceremonies, it offers a cozy, yet elegant option within the Olde Wicks Factory.

Wedding Day Amenities at The Olde Wicks Factory

Each distinct space at The Olde Wicks Factory includes essential amenities: various table options, white folding chairs or Champagne Gold Chiavari Chairs, bartenders, and a dedicated venue coordinator. Additional offerings include the previously mentioned on-site wedding prep quarters, options for indoor or outdoor ceremonies, and spaces for rehearsal dinners or bridal showers.

What Does a Wedding Cost At The Olde Wicks Factory?

The Olde Wicks Factory offers transparent pricing with its all-inclusive packages. According to their website, 2025 pricing ranges from $6,400 for Fridays and Sundays to $7,400 for Saturdays, with additional options for progressive weddings. For smaller events, hourly rates apply, ensuring affordability and flexibility. As always, contact the venue directly for the most accurate quote for your specific wedding!

Unmatched Photo Opportunities

One the best things about The Olde Wicks Factory is that it provides so many photo opportunities in every corner and amazing light at any time of day, and especially when it gets close to sunset. The garden around the patio, the West Hall Courtyard, the surrounding woods, and the various venue buildings themselves offer endless chances for your photographer to get creative and make some stunning images. Want to amp up the quality of your wedding photos at The Olde Wicks factory? Let your photographer take you out for sunset photos and night photos to really add some gorgeous light and spice up your final gallery!

Olde Wicks Factory Wedding Photographer

The Olde Wicks Factory in Highland, Illinois is so much more than just a wedding venue; it's a place where your dreams for your wedding are realized, and memories are made. Its combination of beauty, versatility, functionality, and top-notch service makes it an outstanding choice for your special day. Whether planning a grand event or an intimate affair, Olde Wicks promises an experience that is nothing short of magical.

If you’re still looking for a wedding photographer, especially one who knows this venue, get in touch with me below!

A Year In Review | My Favorite Images of 2023

2023 has come and gone, and the year passed by blazingly fast and, at the same time, delightfully slow. The fact that, for nearly every week this past year, I was able to wake up, grab my camera(s), and create with some of the genuinely nicest folks I’ve ever met will perpetually blow my tiny lil’ brain.

After so many years of living my life in two different spaces - 2023 was the year where I simplified everything and, subsequently, made it more complex. Last year, I quit any level of full-time employment I had so that I could commit 100% of my time to my work and, most importantly, my couples. It’s been scary, but SO rewarding!

It’s another year of astounding, vibrant people.

It’s another year totally devoid of any wedding horror stories (I have the best couples).

It’s another year where I feel I don’t deserve to be on my two feet, doing what I love.

I’m working with people I call friends (vendors and couples alike), making the photos I’ve always wanted to make in places I’ve always wanted to make them.

For a photographer who typically covers the St. Louis area, I sure as heck didn’t stay put this year. From Northern to Southern Illinois, Missouri, Minnesota, and Kansas - these were just a few places to which I lugged around my camera bags.

To my couples - thanks for the trust, the laughs, the hugs, and the vibes. You mean SO much to me! If you’re reading this, I’m thankful for you and your attention.

Here are some of my favorite images that I made this year!

Hey, that was a lengthy blog you scrolled through! If you’re looking for a wedding photographer in 2024 and beyond, I’d love to learn more about you and your dreams for your wedding!

Best Small Wedding Venues in St. Louis, MO (Intimate & Micro Weddings)

Are you planning a micro or intimate wedding in St. Louis, Missouri? If so, you’re in the right place! Today I’m sharing my favorite small wedding venues in St. Louis from the perspective of a wedding photographer.

Venue | Verde on Cherokee

Intimate Weddings & Elopements Are In

No matter what you call it - an elopement, a micro wedding, or an intimate wedding - it’s undeniable that these smaller celebrations have become so much more popular since 2020. Whether you’re trimming down the guest list to reduce budget or stress, or you’re looking to increase the impact of those special moments, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with having a wedding that isn’t packed with people. Just because you’re having a smaller event doesn’t mean you have to miss out on booking an iconic St. Louis wedding venue. From restaurants to greenhouses to private outdoor spaces, St. Louis has plenty of incredible options for elopements and intimate or micro weddings.

Are you planning a wedding, but the timeline has your head spinning? Get my FREE Wedding Timeline Guide full of sample timelines and helpful tips and tricks!

Top St. Louis Small Wedding Venues

Not sure where to start in your venue search? In no particular order, here is a guide to some of the top small wedding venues in and around St. Louis. Not all of these venues are explicitly "tiny,” but these are all spaces that work very well for small weddings or elopements!

Verde on Cherokee

This one is a bit of a guilty pleasure, just because I’m so partial to greenhouses and impeccably decorated spaces! Verde on Cherokee has 4 main sections to the venue, with both indoor and outdoor options, so there’s tons of flexibility for any weddings of up to 100 guests.

LOCATION: 2118 Cherokee St., St. Louis, MO 63118

MAX GUEST COUNT: 100

Check out my full write up of Verde on Cherokee HERE!

Marry Me Cottage

Just about half an hour outside the city in O’Fallon, MO, Marry Me Cottage is a venue that specializes in small wedding days. As if the name didn’t say enough, Marry Me Cottage is an exceedingly cozy, excessively sweet, and overwhelmingly cute place for micro weddings and elopements. The venue has 4 distinct spaces that have a wide range of guest capacities - from 10 to 50 total headcount. As far as pricing and packages go, Marry Me Cottage’s collections start at 20 minutes and go all the way up to 4 hours, and include a variety of options including an officiant in every package. Day-of investment starts at $175. I recommend getting a more extended rental time so you can take advantage of the many awesome photo locations around the property!

LOCATION: 9036 Veterans Memorial Parkway O'Fallon, MO 63366

MAX GUEST COUNT: 50

Learn more at: https://www.marrymecottage.com/

Contemporary Art Museum

In the most literal sense, no two weddings are ever the same at the Contemporary Art Museum of St. Louis. Being an active art gallery first and an event venue second, the ever-changing exhibitions that line the walls and floorplan of the space mean that CAM is ever-evolving and always exciting, which is one of my favorite things about shooting here. CAM has 3 distinct spaces that work for ceremonies, cocktail hours, or receptions - the Performance Space, Cafe & Courtyard Terrace, and the Lobby. Rental times are maxed out at 5 hours, so couples have a good amount of flexibility in how they want to use their time.

LOCATION: 3750 Washington Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63108

MAX GUEST COUNT: 300

Learn more at: https://camstl.org/event-rentals/

The Thaxton

If you’re looking for something a bit more stylized, The Thaxton just might be for you. The Thaxton is an art-deco wedding venue in downtown St. Louis. With a max seated capacity of 120, a smaller event or micro wedding won’t get swallowed up in a massive room. This multi-level venue offers distinctive spaces like the Grand Hall, Speakeasy, and an additional 2nd Floor event space, each oozing with their own specific vintage charm. Essential amenities including day-of coordination, a wedding party lounge, tables, chairs, lounge seating, and a full sound system, ensure a seamless and elegant celebration all wrapped in the stunning historic setting of The Thaxton. When hiring a photographer for your wedding here, make sure they’re very comfortable photographing in low light!

LOCATION: 1009 Olive St, St. Louis, MO 63101

MAX GUEST COUNT: 120

Learn more at: https://www.thethaxton.com/thethaxton-weddings

SqWires Restaurant & Market

Nestled in the always gorgeous Lafayette Square, SqWires Restaurant & Market is most commonly known for its delicious, seasonal, and expertly curated menu of American Cuisine. Just off the main restaurant, however, is SqWires’ Annex & Front Room - two spaces that are perfect for small to medium-sized wedding ceremonies and receptions. The Front Room has warm brick and plenty of natural light and can host up to 40 guests, while the Annex is laden with industrial touches, tall ceilings, and an inviting mezzanine. The Annex can host a guest count of up to 150. If your itinerary allows, I highly recommend using the mezzanine and staircase for a few creative night photos!

LOCATION: 1415 S. 18th St, St. Louis, MO 63104

MAX GUEST COUNT: Front Room - 40 | Annex - 150

Learn more at: https://sqwires.com/sqwires-annex-front-room/

Your Boutique Hotel

If you’re open to taking a short trip to the other side of the river, Your Boutique Hotel (formerly WOW on Broadway) in Alton, IL could be the perfect option for a micro wedding! From a visual standpoint, Your Boutique Hotel stands out due to its iconic spiral staircase, beautiful exposed brick, and gorgeous yet functional getting-ready spaces. This venue is perfect if you have out-of-town guests because the venue still functions as an active hotel. Accommodating family or friends who are traveling for your wedding is extremely simple at Your Boutique Hotel.

LOCATION: 515 E 3rd St, Alton, IL 62002

MAX GUEST COUNT: 100

See our full venue review on Your Boutique Hotel!

Magic Chef Mansion

The Magic Chef Mansion was built in 1907 and, after being sold and purchased by the current owners, has been a restoration project and labor of love over the past 20 years. Now, having been restored to its former beauty, Magic Chef Mansion is host to so many gorgeous small events including, of course, weddings! The vintage furniture, deep wood accents, and turn-of-the-century styling make it the ideal place for couples seeking a timeless, classic look to their wedding day. While the size can be expanded if you rent tents for the property, the mansion by itself can comfortably entertain 75 individuals.

LOCATION: 3400 Russell Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63104

MAX GUEST COUNT: 75, up to 150 with an outdoor tent

Learn more at: http://magicchefmansion.com/events/

Piper Palm House

Oh, I didn’t add enough greenhouse inspiration to this list? My bad! Here’s Piper Palm House! While not a greenhouse in a literal sense, the stately windows, high ceiling, ample natural light, and impeccable greenery that lines the walls just ooze a natural, historic, yet distinctively contemporary aesthetic. No matter the wedding size, beauty just comes naturally to Piper Palm House.

LOCATION: 4271 Northeast Dr, St. Louis, MO 63110

MAX GUEST COUNT: 200

Learn more at: https://www.towergrovepark.org/piper-palm-house-1

Lafayette Square Park

Lafayette Square Park is one of the most popular parks in St. Louis, and for good reason! Not only is it perfect for a beautiful casual weeknight stroll, but it’s immaculately maintained and is host to 3 of the best park-style wedding venues in the area! The Park House, The Kern Lakeside Pavilion, and the Betsy Cook Pavilion are all stunning settings for smaller sized weddings. The Park house is a legendary historic building, constructed in 1867, that can now be rented for indoor gatherings. The Kern Pavilion is the park’s most recent restoration project, completed in 2014, and the window-lined walls and spacious interior are perfect for receptions. Finally, the Betsy Cook Pavilion is an open-air pavilion that overlooks the lush grotto and wrought-iron bridge that the park is known for. This pavilion is perfect for small ceremonies that want a bit of protection from the elements.

LOCATION: 2023 Lafayette Ave, St. Louis, MO 63104

MAX GUEST COUNT: 50

Check out this Lafayette Park Micro Wedding!

Boo Cat Club

One of my all-time favorites, Boo Cat Club is just outside of Forest Park and is a vintage-styled gem. While it has plenty of space for larger weddings, it’s still perfect for micro-weddings, elopements, and small weddings. The venue’s three distinct spaces - the Catacombs, the Theatre, and the Ballroom - offer unique settings for every key part of the day. Top amenities like a bridal room, onsite tables and chairs, and an event manager help to ensure a seamless experience. Boo Cat Club is truly not one to miss!

LOCATION: 812 UNION BLVD., ST. LOUIS 63108

MAX GUEST COUNT: 200

Learn More At: https://boocatclub.com/weddings/

Third Degree Glass Factory

Third Degree Glass Factory in merges industrial chic with an art gallery ambiance, offering a unique wedding venue for up to 280 guests. Established in 2002, it boasts two adaptable spaces that work nicely for weddings - the La Soffietta Room and the Glass Gallery. Personally, the Glass Gallery works exceptionally well for small ceremonies or cocktail hours. The space itself doesn’t need any work to look great, and it won’t overshadow a smaller group of people.

LOCATION: 5200 DELMAR BOULEVARD, ST. LOUIS, MO 63108

MAX GUEST COUNT: 280

Learn more at: https://thirddegreeglassfactory.com/events/

Olive + Oak

Olive + Oak's new event space at 216 W. Lockwood offers an intimate venue that mirrors the restaurant's warm atmosphere, ideal for small weddings and elopements (if you’ve never visited Olive + Oak for a meal, make sure to make your way there). "The Hall," the main venue, accommodates various gatherings with exclusive access to the atrium and mezzanine. Alongside this, the private dining rooms are perfect for smaller, close-knit celebrations. I’ve documented some amazing events here, including wedding receptions! Pro Tip: There’s no better way to celebrate your wedding at this beautiful venue than with one of Olive + Oak’s signature cocktails.

LOCATION: 216 W Lockwood Ave, St. Louis, MO 63119

MAX GUEST COUNT: 200

Learn more at: https://oliveandoak.oohosp.com/events/

Laumeier Sculpture Park

I’m lucky - one of my favorite places for sessions is also the location of an amazing wedding venue! Laumeier Sculpture Park, nestled in a 105-acre park with over 70 large-scale sculptures, offers a totally unique setting for small weddings and elopements. With a capacity ranging from 50 to 500 guests, the park provides diverse indoor and outdoor venues, including the romantic Leaf Pavilion, Heartland Garden, and the historic 1917 Estate House. If quirky, creative, and non-traditional is your vibe, then the photo opportunities at this location are virtually endless. Even though the park covers a lot of land, smaller weddings will still find plenty of options here that are well-suited for their guest count!

LOCATION: 12580 Rott Road, Saint Louis, Missouri 63127

MAX GUEST COUNT: 500

Learn more at: https://www.laumeiersculpturepark.org/event-rentals

Having a Small Wedding? Compromise on the guest list, NOT your photographer. Let’s chat!

Jewel Box Wedding in Forest Park | Kelsey + Megan

Of all my years as a wedding photographer in St. Louis, shooting at so many amazing venues, the Jewel Box in Forest Park holds a special place in my heart as one of my favorite venues to return to year after year. With it’s towering glass ceiling and endless lush greenery, it’s a space that’s hard to beat - especially if Kelsey and Megan are getting married there. Check out some of my favorite moments from this wedding day, as well as the highlight film we created for this lovely couple!

Kelsey & Megan’s Forest Park Jewel Box Wedding Day

When Kelsey and Megan first reached out to me to capture their wedding day, we hit it off pretty much right off the bat. Here are a couple of things that immediately stuck out to me when we hopped on their consultation:

1. They have a dog. His name is Benson. He is adorable

2. Kelsey and Megan are madly in love

That’s all I needed! For me to be excited to work with my couples, #2 is a requirement. But, a cute dog is also a bonus! Kelsey and Megan made it clear that photography was extremely important to them. They wanted to work with someone who would capture raw emotion beautifully and creatively, someone who wouldn’t force them into awkward poses or situations, and someone who would approach candid moments with intention and care. Luckily for them, these are a few of the things I prioritize in my approach to weddings. From their engagement session to their album design call, Kelsey and Megan were an absolute DREAM to work with. I am beyond lucky to experience such love.

Kelsey and Megan did all their day-of prep in an Air BnB just a few minutes outside of Forest Park. Not only did this cut down on the travel time, but the duplex-style setup of the Air BnB made it extremely simple to jump back and forth between both sides of them getting ready. Kelsey and Megan’s details were so timeless and significant - from the sweet Converse to the matching vow books.

Kelsey and Megan LOVE so many classic spots in St. Louis, so Art Hill in Forest Park was a no-brainer for their first look, wedding party photos, and some pre-ceremony portraits. We were treated with some dramatic clouds, a strong breeze, and some amazing light (which doesn’t always happen with the late-afternoon sun). Some rain from the previous few days gave us cooler weather and plenty of opportunities for creative reflections in their photos.

From there, we did a short first look with both of their fathers and it was onto the ceremony and reception! The Jewel Box speaks for itself, but I’ll try my best to write a few words. Even from the outside, it’s such an iconic venue. Surrounded by manicured gardens, beautiful reflecting pools, and jaw-dropping architecture, the walk up to the venue is super inspiring as a photographer. My mind always spins with ideas for creative photos. Then, walking inside, you’re met with that grand, greenhouse-style architecture and immaculate, almost otherworldly plants. This vibe lasted us all the way through the reception, where the Jewel House team flipped the ceremony setup into a reception layout, perfect for a joyful night of toasts, great food (courtesy of Orlando’s), and even better dance moves.

Scroll on for the photos and highlight film that we made for Kelsey and Megan. This day deserved to be captured in a vibrant, unique, and loving way - I’m so glad that these two trusted me and my team with these special moments!

Featured Vendors

Planner - Adorist Weddings & Events
Photo+Video - Bryson B Photo
Catering - Orlando’s
Venue - Jewel Box
Photo Booth - STL Photo Party
Ice Cream Cart - Slingin’ Scoops
Cake - Celebrating Life Cakes
Hair - Nikki Russo
Makeup - Faces By Heather
Transportation - LS Transportation
DJ - Elite Pro DJ
Florist - Bloomin’ Buckets
String Trio - Innocenti Strings

Highlight Film - Kelsey + Megan

You made it! If you’re looking for someone to capture your wedding day in a creative and intentional way, I can help!

Loveland Estates: A Dream Wedding Venue

Loveland Estates | Wedding Venue Overview

Located in Pocahontas, Illinois, Loveland Estates is a modern, cozy waterfront wedding venue that offers tons of amenities and is a gorgeous, turnkey solution for your wedding day. Just a 40-minute drive from St. Louis, this modern ranch-inspired wedding venue is nestled among lush scenery on a serene lakefront and provides a stunning backdrop for a modern, “boho-infused,” wedding. With ample indoor and outdoor options for your guests, Loveland Estates can host weddings of up to 215 guests, making it a great choice for larger celebrations. As a photographer, while I love the beauty and creative photo opportunities at Loveland Estates, by far the biggest benefit of weddings at Loveland Estates is the team. Weddings here run smoothly, are executed professionally, and are always impeccably styled - mostly because the venue can also handle the florals (and they’re REALLY good). Let’s dive into the details of this venue and why you might want to host your wedding at Loveland Estates!

LOCATION: 519 Stevenson Drive, Pocahontas, IL
MAX GUEST COUNT: 215 seated guests

Are you planning your dream wedding and want to see all the venues in the St. Louis area? Get the definitive STL + Metro area venue master list and find the perfect space for you!

Table of Contents

1. Wedding Day Prep and Where To Get Ready

2. Reception and Ceremony Spaces

3. Wedding Day Amenities at Loveland Estates

4. What Does a Wedding Cost At Loveland Estates?

5. Loveland Estates Photo Opportunities

6. Loveland Estates Wedding Photographer

Wedding Day Prep and Where To Get Ready

On top of the ceremony, reception, and cocktail hour spots that Loveland Estates provides, this venue also offers a few very solid options when it comes to starting and getting ready for the day! Let’s break these down

On Location: Dedicated Suite and Loft

When you walk into the main entrance at Loveland Estates, you’re greeted by the dedicated wedding prep suite on the first floor of the venue’s primary building. Within this suite, you’ll find plenty of mirrors, seating options, closet space, and countertops so that you can get ready in comfort. If you head upstairs, there is a warm yet spacious loft that’s available as an additional prep space. Both parties can comfortably get ready in the same spot on the day-of without the need to directly interact with each other - which is a huge win when it comes to logistics and timing on the wedding day!

Off Location: The Loveland Home

If you have a large wedding party or want to spend the night before your wedding in a fully-featured house that you can also use to get ready, Loveland Estates has the perfect solution for you - The Loveland Home! Just a few minutes down the road from the main venue in Greenville, Illinois sits the Loveland Home. This home sleeps up to 12 people, has 3 bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and a spacious sitting room.

Reception and Ceremony Spaces

Loveland Estates offers a variety of spaces to host your wedding, from wedding prep to the last dance. With 3 main covered areas and 10 acres to play with, there are plenty of ways to customize the venue to perfectly fit your wedding day’s needs!

Want to see a real wedding at Loveland Estates? Click HERE!

Covered Ceremony Site

If you’ve seen any photos from this venue already, you’ve likely seen images from this idyllic ceremony spot. This portion of the venue is surrounded by vibrant greens, lined with ample bench seating, and it’s all framed around a gorgeous stone-inspired altar area, where the couple, wedding party, and the officiant perform the ceremony. If you’re having a winter wedding, ask Loveland about setting up heating! It’ll allow you to keep your guests cozy while still having that beautiful, naturally-lit ceremony you’ve been dreaming of.

Loveland Estates Cocktail Patio First Look

Cocktail Hour and Covered Patio

Just behind the ceremony site is a covered patio area that offers more seating, space for yard games, and a super cool bar cart for serving drinks between the ceremony and reception. Similarly boho styled, your guests can comfortably hang out while you’re taking family photos and hanging out with the on-site farm animals.

Loveland Estates Reception Space

Reception Space

Housed within the main building at the venue, Loveland Estates’ reception area is a stunning area to get the party started! As you enter, you’ll be greeted by massive windows and gorgeous natural light, At the head of the venue is a huge, inviting brick wall that is styled with warm string lights and hanging greenery. Poured cement floors and vaulted white ceilings bring a modern flair to balance out the brick and lush greenery. Under the staircase to the loft, your guests can visit the full-service bar.

Wedding Day Amenities at Loveland Estates

At Loveland Estates, they strive to make your wedding day as seamless and stress-free as possible. The Loveland team offers venue tours by appointment throughout the week and includes a one-hour rehearsal with your booking. During the planning process, their team will be with you every step of the way to ensure that everything runs smoothly on your big day. They can also assist with florals, centerpieces, bouquets, decor, farmhouse and round tables, cross-back chairs, and bar services. While they’ll provide you a list of their favorite vendors, you aren’t required to use them and you may choose your own caterer. To top it all off, Loveland Estates offers a shuttle service to take guests from the local hotels or the Loveland Home directly to the venue.

What Does a Wedding Cost at Loveland Estates?

The starting investment cost of hosting a wedding at Loveland Estates may vary depending on the time of year and the day of the week, but couples can expect to invest a starting rate of $6,000 for a ceremony and reception at Loveland Estates. Generally, peak wedding season can be more expensive, while off-season dates may offer lower rates. However, your best bet is to contact Loveland Estates directly for the most accurate quote!

Loveland Estates Photo Opportunities

One of my favorite things about Loveland Estates is that it provides a number of photo opportunities around the venue and amazing light when it gets close to sunset. The lake, the surrounding woods, and the venue building itself offer endless chances for your photographer to get creative and make some stunning images. Want to amp up the quality of your wedding photos at Loveland Estates? Let your photographer take you out for sunset photos and night photos to really add some gorgeous light and spice up your final gallery!

Whether you're planning a grand celebration or an intimate gathering, Loveland Estates is a wonderful choice for your wedding venue. With its beautiful location, flexible spaces, and top-notch staff, you're sure to have an amazing, memorable wedding day at Loveland Estates.

Loveland Estates Wedding Photographer

If you’re still looking for a wedding photographer, especially one that knows this venue, check out some of my work or get in touch below!

Timber Creek Wedding | Molly + Chris

A wedding at Timber Creek Event Center in St. Joseph, Missouri

Molly and Chris’ wedding at Timber Creek Event Center in St. Joseph, Missouri was totally unique and absolutely stunning. From Chris’ dark suit and the black bridesmaids’ dresses to the moody florals and rustic accents around the reception space, it was clear they had a vision - and it totally worked!

Timber Creek Event Center was an absolute joy to photograph and work with. The team was friendly and accommodating, and the place is just stunningly gorgeous. I love the ceremony space, especially at night (check those last few night photos), and the large reception area with tall, beamed ceilings made for an awesome place to party! In spring, with that late afternoon light flowing through the leafless trees, this venue offered so many amazing opportunities to get creative with the couple.

Needless to say, the llamas were a highlight of the day, if only for the sole reason that they were wearing their own fancy wedding attire. THE BEST part of the day was just looking around, seeing how obsessed Molly and Chris are with each other, and feeling how much everyone at the wedding cared so deeply for them.

I knew from their engagement session that they were fun, creative, laid-back, and down for pretty much anything - my type of people! Get your scrolling fingers out and check out some of my favorites from this awesome day!

Photo/Video: Bryson B Photo

Cake: Three Wishes Bakery

Florals: Landers Flowers

Hair: Whisper Lynn

Makeup: Mafia Makeup by Sarah

Catering: Day N’ Paradise

Cake Pops: Cake Poppin with Brittany

Looking for bland wedding photos? Didn’t think so.

The McPherson Wedding Venue

The McPherson | Wedding Venue Overview

Nestled in the heart of St. Louis’ Central West End, The McPherson offers a truly unique experience for couples seeking a warm, elegant, full-featured wedding venue. Formerly the McPherson Chapel, after two years of improvements and renovations it’s now one of the most stunning venues in the city! With its historic charm, versatile indoor and outdoor spaces, and comprehensive amenities, The McPherson is a hidden gem that’s perfect for any modern, timeless wedding day. Let's delve into what makes The McPherson one of our favorites to capture!

LOCATION: 4715 McPherson Ave, St. Louis, MO 63108

CAPACITY: 250

Want to see all the wedding venues in the St. Louis area for your wedding day? Get the definitive STL + Metro area venue master list and find the perfect venue for you!

Reception and Ceremony Spaces

At The McPherson, every aspect of your day can be hosted on-site, from prep to portraits to the reception. The venue boasts expansive indoor and outdoor spaces to accommodate the ceremony, reception, and everything in between.

GETTING READY - SUITE

The McPherson offers a luxurious suite spanning over 700 square feet, which includes five makeup and hair stations, a private restroom, comfortable couches and chairs, and so many more details that make it a breeze to get ready for the day! This expansive and well-equipped space ensures that the whole wedding party has everything they need to feel prepped for the big day.

SECONDARY SUITE

Similarly, the venue offers a dedicated prep area for the groom, groomsmen, or any other wedding party! This space is private, has a dedicated bathroom, leather couches, and a changing area.

THE CHAPEL

Perfect for an indoor ceremony and the reception, the dramatic McPherson Chapel is an absolutely beautiful sight to see! Throughout the extensive renovations, the original architectural details have been preserved in the Chapel, so it brings such a striking aesthetic to the venue. With 30-foot vaulted, beamed ceilings, antique chandeliers, warm-toned floors, and all-new sound and lighting systems, the Chapel is one of my favorite indoor venue spaces in St. Louis!

THE COURTYARD

The McPherson also offers an exclusive 5,500-square-foot courtyard tucked away at the rear of the building. The courtyard features a striking wedding gazebo for outdoor ceremonies. Still, couples at the McPherson can have the peace of mind that comes with knowing that, if weather conditions don't cooperate, the event can seamlessly transition from outdoors to indoors. Additionally, the courtyard boasts a second bar, offering additional space for cocktail hour or if the dance floor begins to spill outdoors.

Wedding Day Amenities at The McPherson

The team at the McPherson is committed to making your wedding day as enjoyable as possible. The venue provides a range of amenities and services that ensure a seamless wedding day experience. Tables, chairs, and linens are included, and the recent renovations have added state-of-the-art professional lighting on the dance floor. While the McPherson doesn’t allow outside catering, their exclusive partner, Russo’s Catering, has an expansive selection of menu items for a variety of budgets and themes. The McPherson will provide a staff member to be present during the wedding, but this person is not a dedicated planner or coordinator. If, however, you do end up hiring a planner or coordinator, The McPherson states that they’ll provide a discount on their services! Additionally, the venue offers spacious Main Floor Restrooms with European-style privacy stalls and, across the street, a large on-site parking lot with an attendant.

What Does a Wedding Cost at The McPherson

Starting investments at the McPherson vary widely, so having an off-season or Sunday wedding could save you a significant amount on your rental. The venue offers flexible pricing options, with starting prices ranging from $1,495 to $5,995, depending on the day of the week and any applicable holidays. The McPherson also offers ceremony-only pricing, starting at $1,795 and including an impressive amount of their standard services!

The McPherson Photo Opportunities

Since the venue is in St. Louis’ Central West End, The McPherson is ideally situated near a ton of iconic landmarks, such as Forest Park, Tower Grove Park, and the Missouri Botanical Gardens. While these are certainly idyllic St. Louis spots, the McPherson has plenty to offer by staying on-location, which, for many weddings, I recommend! With its historic architecture and classic neighborhood surroundings, the courtyard and the adjacent buildings make for some amazing creative photo spots! It’s hard to take a bad photo at The McPherson

Still looking for the right photographer?

Check out some of my favorite work or get in touch below!

Stone House of St. Charles

Stone House of St. Charles | Wedding Venue Overview

Stone House of St. Charles is a charming, historic St. Louis wedding venue that boasts all the amenities for an amazing wedding! The venue is easily accessible, has a wide range of scenes and settings for different parts of your day, and can easily accommodate up to 400 guests. Stone House is a one-of-a-kind location and, as a photographer, it’s one of my favorite spots to capture weddings. From the beautiful 200-year-old stone house to the sweeping ceilings of the Grand Hall, Stone House of St. Charles has a ton to offer couples looking for a turn-key solution to their wedding day.

LOCATION: 4401 McClay Rd, St Charles, MO 63304

MAX GUEST COUNT: 400

Are you planning your dream wedding and want to see all the venues in the St. Louis area? Get the definitive STL + Metro area venue master list and find the perfect space for you!

Reception and Ceremony Spaces

Stone House of St. Charles can be broken up into 5 distinct sections, with each space catering to a unique part of the day. The main spaces are: The Stone House, The Guest House, The Grand/Sycamore Hall, The Pergola, and The Courtyard.

The Stone House

This 200-year-old house is the centerpiece of the venue and the focal point of the entire 10+ acres of land that you’ll have access to! Included in the rental, the entire stone house is accessible for the entire day. The upper story is a dedicated prep space with ample natural light for any hair and makeup needs. The ground floor has plenty of room for the family to relax, as well as a gorgeous fully-equipped kitchen.

The Guest House

The guest house features a warmly-accented loft with a stunning balcony that overlooks the courtyard. The loft features a pool table, TVs, and everything you’ll need to get prepped for the big day. Typically, the groom’s party utilizes this space for wedding prep.

The Courtyard

The courtyard at Stone House of St. Charles is totally unique and, honestly, one of my favorite parts of the venue. Shaded by massive trees and surrounded by elegant stone accents and pavers, this is the perfect place for family photos, first looks, portraits, and cocktail hours, and it makes for the perfect transition into the Grand Hall.

The Pergola

The Pergola is a popular setting for many of the wedding ceremonies at Stone House, and the paved walkway leading to the pergola makes a perfect aisle for you and your wedding party to walk down. The Pergola sits among lush grass and atop a gently-sloped hill which leads to a quiet wooded area. This area is spacious and gets great light if you time the ceremony right!

The Grand Hall / Sycamore Hall

The Grand Hall (sometimes called Sycamore Hall) is a breathtaking, expansive structure that plays host to the receptions at Stone House of St. Charles. The Grand Hall features amazing vaulted ceilings with hefty beams, warm wooden tones, and a gorgeous fireplace. This space is large enough to host over 350 guests with plenty of space for dining and a bustling dance floor. I LOVE when they break out the fog for the first dances!

Wedding Day Amenities at Stone House of St. Charles

Stone House of St. Charles is an all-inclusive venue and is the perfect solution for couples that want a full service approach to their wedding day. Stone House can provide everything you need for your day, including decorations, DJ services, catering, beverage services, and a full crew to help with the details of making the wedding day happen.

Rentals are for the entire day, so if you’re getting married at a church or another offsite location, they recommend utilizing Stone House for wedding day prep, leaving for the ceremony, and returning to finish out the rest of the day at Stone House.

What Does a Wedding Cost at Stone House of St. Charles?

The starting price for weddings at Stone House of St. Charles is $3,600, with that number open to change based on seasonality and whether your wedding is on a Friday, Saturday, or Sunday. It’s best to reach out to Stone House of St. Charles directly if you’re wanting the most accurate quote for your wedding date!

Each booking includes space for up to 400 guests, a parking lot that fits over 180 cars, wedding prep accommodations, silver Chiavari chairs for the ceremony and reception, round or farmhouse tables for the reception, centerpieces, and the in-house DJ service. For Friday and Saturday weddings, couples must choose from Stone House’s preferred vendor list for catering.

Photo Opportunities

Stone House has amazing photography opportunities at every turn. The shaded courtyard has amazing light for much of the day, the guest house and Stone House have lovely, large windows, and the Pergola overlooks a hill and woods, where you and your photographer can make use of the lush greens and vibrant colors. Personally, we love featuring the giant Sycamore tree and rustic stone in the courtyard. You really cannot go wrong at this venue!

Still looking for the right photographer?

Check out some of my favorite work or get in touch below!

Verde on Cherokee - Wedding Venue Overview

What You Need To Know About Verde on Cherokee

Verde on Cherokee is an intimate, modern St. Louis wedding venue located in one of the most vibrant and culturally diverse areas of the city. The venue is situated on the historic Cherokee Street’s Antique Row, and is the perfect location for cozy, meaningful gatherings - including weddings! Verde is such a unique space and, as a photographer, one of my favorite spots in the city to capture weddings. From the unassuming entrance to the modern greenhouse, Verde on Cherokee has a ton to offer couples looking for the perfect small wedding venue.

LOCATION: 2118 Cherokee St., St. Louis, MO 63118

MAX GUEST COUNT: 100

Reception and Ceremony Spaces

Verde on Cherokee can be broken up into 4 main sections and, depending on what layout or package you book with them, these sections can be customized to your needs! The sections are: The Showroom/Studio, The Kitchen, The Patio, and The Greenhouse

THE PATIO

When you walk up to the venue, a side entrance will take you directly back to the open patio and greenhouse. If you travel past the covered walkway, the space opens up to an absolutely gorgeous patio. Surrounded by warm brick, lush greens (in the summer), and privacy fencing, the patio section of Verde on Cherokee is a lovely area for an outdoor ceremony or an open-air reception and is suitable for up to 50 guests. It is open-air and uncovered.

THE GREENHOUSE

The Greenhouse is arguably the main, and most striking, feature of Verde on Cherokee. It’s impeccably styled with a blend of modern and vintage furnishings, thriving plants, exposed brick, and it’s bathed in stunning light! The Greenhouse is also surprisingly spacious and can host a fair number of guests inside. You can opt for a specific layout with the Verde on Cherokee team so that the Greenhouse is set up best for your needs. According to their site, Verde states that the greenhouse can seat up to 40 guests. The Greenhouse is covered but it’s only heated.

THE SHOWROOM + STUDIO

The Showroom and The Studio are two separate, but adjacent, spaces in the main building of the venue. The Showroom is a beautiful retail space that includes furniture that your guests are welcome to lounge on. The Studio is a lovely, inviting office-type area that also includes various seating options for guests. These two spaces are an additional flat fee to rent and are recommended for weddings on the larger side of Verde’s guest count, and required for weddings over 70 people. These areas are heated and cooled and can offer a much-needed break from seasonal warmth or cold.

THE KITCHEN

The Kitchen is situated between the showroom and the greenhouse and includes a fridge, a large utility sink, bartops , and a small seating area. This is a great place for the bride and groom to hide away between the ceremony or reception, as it is included along with the Greenhouse and Patio in the venue’s “Standard Rental Area” layout.

Wedding Day Amenities at Verde on Cherokee

Verde on Cherokee is not a full-service or all-inclusive venue, nor do they advertise themselves to be! Think of it more as a Venue Air BnB. This allows them to keep their couples’ costs down while providing a highly unique space for their wedding. As mentioned above, their standard rental area includes the kitchen which is heated, cooled, and has a fridge and indoor seating. Verde also has tables, chairs, and table linens included in their 6-hour collection.

What Does a Wedding Cost at Verde on Cherokee?

Verde on Cherokee is definitely more on the accessible side when it comes to pricing and packages, and it’s highly customizable. If you just want the space and are willing to do all the setup yourself, the venue is $175/hr and only $120/hr on weekdays before 5:00 PM. If you’re looking for a bit more help on the day of, their $1,300 collection is 6 hours for up to 50 guests and includes table and chair setup with tablecloths.

Still looking for the right photographer?

Check out some of my favorite work or get in touch below!

9 Winter Wedding Planning Tips So You Can Have The Best Day Ever

Have you been dreaming of having a winter wedding? I don’t blame you - those chilly wedding days offer much in the way of cozy, festive, and intimate themes (and maybe some more affordable rates on a venue). Whether you’re looking to lean into the snow and ice, a special holiday, or a bustling New Year’s celebration, these “less popular” winter season dates can still pack a hefty good time!

That said, planning a wedding during the colder months also comes with its own set of unique challenges. How do you pull off your own unforgettable day in a less traditional time of year? After photographing dozens of winter weddings, I’ve rustled up some tips to help make your winter wedding a success.

Photo: Bryson B Photo
Venue: Loveland Estates

Choose the Right Venue

Choosing the right venue is key. Not only will you want a venue team experienced with pulling off winter weddings, but make sure you book a spot with ample space indoors to take photos and to have a backup plan for the ceremony or reception. If you can’t go off-location to an indoor photo spot, you’ll want to stick around at the venue. You don’t want to be in a situation where all your photos have to be taken outside, so pick a venue that has indoor space (away from the footpath of arriving or mingling guests) where you and your photographer can get some amazing shots!

Local couples! Looking for the perfect St. Louis Wedding Venue? Check out THIS list!

Embrace the Season

Winter weddings offer the opportunity to incorporate seasonal elements into your decorations, attire, and even the menu. Think white and silver accents, soft lighting, warm cocktails, and hearty comfort food. String lights, candles, and well-placed lamps can add to the cozy atmosphere without pulling attention away from the couple.

Plan For Inclement Weather

It's always a good idea to have a backup plan in case of bad weather on your wedding day. This is especially true in the winter when snow and ice can cause travel delays and make remote venues treacherous. Make sure the venue is prepped to clear the way for guest parking or that capable transport is provided from the venue to where they’re staying. Give guests the option to arrive earlier than needed so that they can have flexibility in their trip to the venue!

Photo: Bryson B Photo

Set an Earlier Ceremony Time

If you’re wanting naturally-lit, daylight photos, you’ll want to make sure you set an earlier ceremony time to account for this. Even if you’re doing a first look before the ceremony, building in a few extra minutes between the end of the ceremony and the predicted sunset time will give you and your partner time to take family photos AND go out for sunset photos. If you want extra photo time, ask your photographer to take you around for some night photos during the reception. These can be SUPER magical with all warm lights you may have around the venue.

Provide Heaters

Ask your venue if they have heaters! Propane patio-style heaters are a great way to add an extra layer of warmth for your guests, especially if the ceremony is outside or the venue doesn’t have great heating (like a barn). If you’re going to have to purchase them yourselves, just buy a couple to place near grandparents or other temperature-sensitive guests. After the ceremony, you can have your venue team move them outside of the reception space in case some guests want to steal away for some fresh, chilly air. Of course, fires are a really aesthetic option for providing heat, but they come with more management and more danger.

Photo: Bryson B Photo

Venue: Destihl

Consider Your Attire

Your attire is going to be crucial for your enjoyment of the wedding day. If you’re wearing a suit, consider styling a scarf into your attire. If you’re wearing a dress, shawls, stoles, and wraps can really compliment the dress without overpowering your look. If you don’t want a covering in every photo, you can absolutely take the wrap off for a majority of your images. Still, having the option to cover up for warmth is never a bad thing, especially when moving from one location to the next.

Don’t Assume You’ll Get Moderate Weather

Here in the Midwest and much of the U.S., it’s not uncommon for winter to provide a string of moderately comfortable outdoor temperatures. Early November or March weddings can be especially sneaky in their temperature swings. Never assume that your wedding day will be warm!

Plan for everything to take at least 10 minutes longer - ceremony, family photos, wedding party photos, travel between locations, and even your creative session with the photographer. Taking a 5-minute break between any outdoor photos to warm back up could seriously benefit your enjoyment of the day (and your safety).

Need help planning out the perfect timeline? Our FREE timeline guide can get you on the right track.

Delegate, Delegate, Delegate

The logistics of a winter wedding are amplified by the chilly temperatures, so DELEGATE everything. If you have a solid vendor team, and you know all decorations are going to be handled to your standards, that is totally worth the investment. However, if circumstances didn’t allow for that level of comprehensive coverage, the couple arriving at the venue after getting ready and having a list of tasks to complete once there will eat away at the timeline, no matter how early you were.

Close family is often more than willing to help with details on the day of (transporting stuff, setting up the guest book table, gift table, etc.). If you don’t have adequate help with the decor from your vendors, reach out to some family! The wedding day is, by default, busy for the couple - don’t give yourself more work that can be delegated!

Photo: Bryson B Photo

Keep Your Guests Comfortable

When it comes to the comfort of your guests, this is a top priority if any portion of the day will be outside. Older guests should be especially mindful of their attire and how much time they spend outdoors. In your pre-wedding communication (invites, emails, etc…) be sure to encourage them to overprepare on their outerwear!

Consider providing blankets or hot chocolate for your guests to keep warm. My secret little wedding hack? Get a huge box of Hot Hands hand warmers for your guests (and wedding party) to use. They last the entire evening and get really warm!

With a little extra planning, a winter wedding can be just as beautiful and memorable as a wedding in any other season. Embrace the season and its unique charm, and your wedding is sure to be a massive success.

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Want to make sure your winter wedding is captured creatively and authentically? >>

A Year In Review | My Favorite Images of 2022

2022 has come and gone, and the year passed by blazingly fast and, at the same time, delightfully slow. The fact that, for nearly every week this past year, I was able to wake up, grab my camera(s), and create with some of the genuinely nicest folks I’ve ever met will perpetually blow my tiny lil’ brain.

It’s another year of astounding humans.

It’s another year totally devoid of any wedding horror stories (I have the best couples).

It’s another year where I feel I don’t deserve to be on my two feet, doing what I love.

I’m working with people I call friends (vendors and couples alike), making the photos I’ve always wanted to make in places I’ve always wanted to make them.

For a photographer that typically covers St. Louis, I sure as heck didn’t stay put this year. From Northern to Southern Illinois, Missouri, New York, and Tennessee - these were just a few places in which I lugged around my camera bags

To my couples - thanks for the trust, the laughs, the hugs, and the vibes. You mean SO much to me!

Here are some of my favorite images that I made this year!

Hey, that was a lengthy blog you scrolled through! If you’re looking for a wedding photographer in 2023 and beyond, I’d love to learn more about you and what you value!

Main Street Abbey Wedding | Columbia, IL | Courtney + Nick

So, here’s the deal. Courtney and Nick are simply lovely humans, and their wedding at Main Street Abbey in Columbia, IL was exactly that - lovely.

Courtney and Nick are so. Friggin’. Cool. They have cool friends. Their families are cool. Their dog, Boone? Radical. Literally, there was an entire section of their wedding timeline titled “Boone Being Radical.”

Nick reached out to me, what feels like, eons ago to capture his proposal to Courtney. I hiked up a huge (for Columbia) mountain (hill) with way too many cameras to grab the big moment. After setting up and settling down, I see a Nervous Nicholas and a (mostly) Clueless Courtney round the corner of the trail. Still neck deep in the ruse, Nick comments to Courtney on the weather, and gestures to me, the nameless photographer, saying, “It’s nice up here! Looks like he’s taking photos for an art project.”

It was a project, but not for my art class. I was a Music Business major, after all.

A question was popped, nervous giggles were… guggled? A resounding “Yes!” was heard.

From that moment forward, I had this nagging hope that I’d get the opportunity to capture Courtney and Nick’s wedding. I’m so happy that we ended up here!

Main Street Abbey provided the perfect venue for an all-in-one wedding, with ample (and beautiful) space for getting ready, the ceremony, the reception, cocktail hour, and everything in between. I’m a particularly big fan of the huge cathedral-style ceilings! I’d happily recommend this venue to anyone in the area looking for a full-featured, spacious, and gorgeous place to have the perfect wedding day.

Courtney and Nick - thank you SO much for trusting your memories to my eyes. Check out some of my faves below!

Dress: Bridal Manor
Cake: Twice as Sweet
Florals: Farmhaus
DJ: DJ Connection
Hair: Lauren Herbeck
Makeup: Art of Beauty
Food: Salt + Smoke
Painting: Karen Raidy
Venue: Main Street Abbey

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The Standard On State | Rockford, IL Wedding

If I was legally forced to capture every single wedding at The Standard on State in Rockford, Illinois, I wouldn’t shed a single tear. This wedding checked every moody, modern, joy-filled, vibrant box in my little photographer heart. I’m so happy to have been there with my camera, taking way too many photos.

This wedding came after a small break in the seemingly nonstop wedding season of 2022. I had just had a couple of weeks off and, as any photographer knows, even the tiniest break can make it feel like you’ve never shot a wedding in your life! McKenna and Grant were such a welcome introduction to the fall wedding season. It truly felt like we’ve known each other for a much longer time than we actually have, and their wedding was an effortless whirlwind of love. Hm. Effortless Whirlwind of Love…. Dibs on that band name.

The Standard is a venue that has every little part of your day covered! They have basically the entire building, from basement to rooftop, so there’s plenty of room for everything from the getting ready to the reception - and McKenna and Grant used it all! McKenna spent so much time nailing down the physical details (signs, favors, invites), and the team at The Standard was able to bring it all together in gorgeous fashion!

I’ll let the photos tell the rest of the story, but every part of this day was striking. The beautiful, warmly lit rooms for getting ready… The open, spacious rooftop ceremony (and dancing) floor… The exposed brick dinner and reception room. All surrounded by the historic city of Rockford, Illinois!

Check out the photos and the awesome vendor team that made this day happen!
Dress: Bucci's Bridal
Florals: London Avenue Designs
DJ: Luxe Productions
Makeup: Alpenglow Artistry
Catering: Lino’s
Videography: Oakhouse
Venue: The Standard

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Missouri History Museum Wedding | Margarett + Jeff

This wedding at the St. Louis Missouri History Museum was such a treat to capture. It had it all: rain, an amazing venue, and a lovely couple. What more could a photographer ask for?

Margarett and Jeff are some really special people, as is their entire cute little family! We immediately connected on their initial call, and the rest just fell into place. Not only did I have the pleasure of capturing their wedding, but their engagement session AND a family session for their entire squad!

For the getting ready portion of the day, we started at the Chase Park Plaza Hotel. After they were done getting ready, we headed down to a beautiful spiral staircase in the lobby of the hotel for their first look (while also dodging another couple that was proposing at the same spot). Right after that, the rain came pouring down, so we scrapped the outside pictures and went to the Missouri History Museum for some family photos and portraits of the couple.

Then, after we made one of my absolute fave images ever (I dare you to guess which one), it was time for the ceremony. The inside of this St. Louis museum really made for a totally perfect ceremony space, with towering glass windows, classic city memorabilia, and a totally killer balcony. Some vows, a kiss, and some cheering - all leading to the reception.

Here’s a bit of what the couple had to say about working with me:

“If you’re on the fence about hiring Bryson, you’re thinking too much. Just hire him! Professional and talented and just pure fun. He was part of the magic behind or most special day! Thank you, Bryson!”

— Margarett and Jeff

It was truly an awesome day, and I couldn’t ask for a better couple and vendor team. Check it out!
Dress: Elegant Brides, Edwardsville, IL
Catering: Russo’s Catering
Venue: Missouri History Museum, Forest Park, St. Louis

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Piazza Messina Wedding | Jenny + Alistair

We had a TON of fun at Piazza Messina with Jenny and Alistair! After a string of chilly, but still amazing, wedding days, Jenny and Ali’s was as warm, sunny, and joyful as we could have hoped for!

Jenny and Alistair’s story is truly a special one. After meeting about 5 years ago, they wanted to tie the knot and make things official not too long after! However, some random virus (who knows what it could have been) happened in early 2020, and Alistair was stuck at home in Scotland for a better part of that year. They fought for their relationship and stuck through so many difficulties that come with being at such a great distance from each other. I’m so impressed by them!

Their story made the wedding day all the sweeter. The toasts were extra toasty, the laughs had a bit more oomph behind them, and the tears were that much more impactful. What a stellar wedding with an amazing group of humans! Check out some of my favorites below!

Vendor team:

Photography/Videography: Bryson Buehrer Photography

Venue: Piazza Messina

Catering: Russo’s Catering

Dress: Boulevard Bride

Florals: Belle Fleur

Trailside Event Center Wedding | Lauren + Jesse

Lauren and Jesse had an awesome central Illinois wedding with a reception at Trailside Event Center on the chilliest day in March!

Luckily, we had access to the gorgeous house you see below, which made things super easy for us during the first part of the day. After their ceremony at Northfield Christian Fellowship, we hopped over to Trailside Event Center in Peoria Heights for the reception! I’m a sucker for industrial accents and those exposed ceilings, so it was such a treat to spend the evening there! After a super quick portrait inside (again, so cold outside), we left them to party the rest of the night away. Check out some of my favorites below!

Reception Venue: Trailside Event Center

Formals: Cloud Nine Boutique

Cake: Trefzger’s

Let’s make something amazing!

Destihl Barrel Room Wedding - Macy + Mike

I shoot a lot in and around Bloomington and Normal, Illinois, and Destihl Brewery’s Barrel Room has got to be one of the best wedding venues to photograph in the area! Before we talk details, let’s chat about Macy and Mike, first.

When these two first reached out to me, I was stoked! Based in Hawaii, they were hosting their wedding celebration in Normal, Illinois so that more of their family and friends could attend. Macy and Mike are totally rad: two dog-owning, outdoors-loving, passionate people. We clicked immediately!

Macy started the day off getting ready with her bridesmaids in a super awesome Air BnB with these gorgeous windows which, of course, I was really happy with. All the bridesmaids got their makeup done by LB Beauty and she absolutely killed it! Everyone was looking fantastic. After shedding a few happy tears, writing a few happy vows, and slipping into her dress, Macy and I headed over to Ewing Cultural Center for the first look(s) and some portraits! Quick tip: If you must have some traveling and multiple locations on your wedding day, definitely do it like Macy did if at all possible. Every location was less than 5 minutes apart and was a breeze to access, which made it easy to not eat into the actual timing of events that day.

After some more tears and laughs, we scooted on over to the Barrel Room for the ceremony and reception! The team at the venue did such a fantastic job in keeping things running smoothly and switching the ceremony space into a rockin’ reception space. The warm lighting, huge windows, and ample “barrel” aesthetics makes Destihl’s Barrel Room a no-brainer for couples who fit that vibe!

The ceremony and reception went by without a hitch, and I was even able to steal the couple away for a quick couple of night portraits which always turn out fun! Check out some of my faves from this awesome wedding below!

Venue: Destihl Brewery - The Barrel Room

Dress: Masako Formals

Makeup: LB Beauty

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How To Include Your Dog In Your Engagement Photos

The Ultimate Guide To Bringing Your Dog To Your Engagement Session

Welcome to this photographer’s guide to including your dog in your engagement photos! As a dog owner that happens to be a wedding and engagement photographer, I understand two very crucial concepts:

1) You want to include your beloved companion in your session.

2) The one time your dog is not a perfect angel sent straight from heaven is when the cameras are out.

Let’s look at some steps you can take to prep your dog, and yourselves, so that your engagement session goes without a hitch!

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Teach a “Focus” Command

In the weeks before your engagement session, you’ll want to set yourself up for success! Getting your dog to look in the correct direction, especially at a camera, can be a super difficult task. The dog likely hasn’t met the photographer before, and the size and shape of a large professional camera pointed at them could be a bit stress-inducing for the pup. Quite often, if the dog does end up looking at the camera, you’ll see them with an averted gaze, ears pinned back, scratching, or licking their lips - all signs of minor stress and the dog attempting to calm the situation

Ideally, every dog will look at and focus on their owners when their name is called. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. We humans tend to say our dogs’ names frequently, and they become conditioned to that sound and can learn that it doesn’t always mean something important! That’s why a “Focus” command is a great tool to have! It’s a cue that you can use that the dog is expected to regularly complete and it’s rewarded frequently, too. This way, you can use the phrase during the session if the photographer wants the dog to look at you, or the photographer can use the command when it’s time for the dog to look at the camera.

Here’s how to teach a focus command. During the dog’s regularly scheduled mealtimes, when they’re expecting food, ditch the bowl a few times per week. Instead, use their regular food and put it in a training pouch or similar slobber-proof container. Just make sure it’s easy to access the food and deliver it rapidly!

If you’ve done any formal training with your dog in the past, you’re probably familiar with the concept of a verbal marker and a reward. In dog training, a “marker” is an indicator to the dog that, in that exact moment, they’ve done something correctly. The “reward” is anything that the dog enjoys - food in this case. You’ll be speaking the verbal marker at the exact moment your dog does what you want, so choose a word that’s easy to say excitedly! Most people, including myself, choose the word “Yes!”

So, for your first session, grab your food, put your dog on a lightweight leash and simple collar, and find a quiet place in the house to do your first session. I like to sit in a chair when teaching this!

1. Sit down and keep the leash in one hand

2. Your dog may be confused at first and may try and walk away or sniff around, that’s okay! Just let that happen. You want to get those problem-solving juices flowing.

3. Keep an eye on the dog, but don’t say a single word. Just gently keep them in your vicinity with the leash.

4. The exact moment your dog looks at you in the eyes, calmly (but in a fun voice) say “Yes!” and deliver food to the dog. This is the first win!

5. Do this 3-4 more times, each time immediately marking (Yes) and rewarding simply when the dog looks at you.

6. On the last repetition, let the dog have the rest of the food after the final successful eye contact. You can dump the rest of the food on the floor as a huge jackpot, or simply continue feeding the remainder of the food by hand.

That’s your first session! Do this multiple times a week (or for every meal if you’re determined and the dog is motivated) in many rooms in the house. You may find your dog freely offering eye contact throughout the day. If this happens, keep treats nearby so you can always mark (Yes!) and reward that good behavior!

Now, to add the actual command! Now that the dog has the concept of, “eye contact is AWESOME” down to a science, it’s time to layer your command over that behavior. The steps are very similar to your first session:

1. Quiet room, leash in hand, sitting calmly on a chair. Let’s say your dog’s name is Moose for this example. 🤣

2. Wait for your dog to stop paying attention to you. A slight glance away or sniffing the ground is enough!

3. When they aren’t making eye contact with you, say “Moose, Focus!” Don’t say anything else and do not repeat the command. The moment they make eye contact, say your marker word and reward heavily!

4. Similar to phase 1 above, repeat only a few more times for your first session. They should catch on super quick if you’ve laid a solid foundation! The string of events will always be: “Focus!” > Dog makes eye contact > Say marker word > Deliver reward. You’re taking something that the dog is already familiar with, eye contact, and saying, “Hey. I like when you do that. Can you do that after I say this specific word?”

5. This is THE most important step out of all the other steps. For this to really take hold, you need to do these sessions at a variety of locations, times of day, and - importantly - with different people. With your partner, your friends, your parents, coworkers, etc… We need to get the dog to understand that when someone says “Moose, Focus!” that they are to lock eyes with that person to unlock delicious rewards.

6. If you want to really amp up your dog’s attention, vary the rate of your rewards and the type of reward, once the concept is nailed down. Once in a while, wait a few seconds until you give your marker, and only give the marker and reward if they HOLD that eye contact. Reward sometimes with a single piece of food, and sometimes with a whopping handful. Sometimes they get a piece of chicken, other times a normal piece of food. Have fun with it! Just make sure that the dog, and you, have fun and that you keep the training sessions relatively short (under 15 minutes in the beginning).

At the end of this process, your dog should be able to Focus on your eyes, and other peoples’ eyes, on command in a few different locations. If you’re consistent and your dog is decently motivated, this should really only take 2-3 weeks to build a really solid Focus command!

Choose A Familiar Location

We got the hard, and most important part, out of the way! Now, it’s time to plan your engagement session. With all my clients, I always ask if there are specific locations that they like or that are special to them. If you’re wanting to include your dog in your engagement session, take your dog’s familiar locations into account.

Try and pick a location that they’ve been to before, but one that doesn’t always mean extreme stimulation. For instance, a small park that you go on calm walks in regularly is a great place, but the dog park or their favorite fetch spot is less than ideal. Dogs are great at pattern recognition, and if they recognize that they’re at the dog park or a spot where they regularly do high-intensity exercise, it’ll be really difficult to maintain their focus during the session. Excitement and stress hormones will start coursing through their veins before you even get out of the car!

In short, try to pick a spot that they’ve been to before, but not one that’s associated with crazy intense activities. The back corner of a park, a wooded trail, or a historic city neighborhood are all fantastic potential choices!

Exercise Your Dog Beforehand

If your dog hasn’t gotten much physical or mental stimulation on the day of the shoot, it’s a great idea to knock off that top layer of energy with something fun and engaging. Be careful, though, as you don’t want to overwork the dog! An overtired pup is just as difficult to work with as an understimulated pup. They’re literally just toddlers with big pointy teeth and tails - you can’t convince me otherwise!

If you need ideas for what to do with your dog that’ll calm them physically and mentally, here are some things I love doing with my two herding-breed dogs!

1. Structured walking - I love going on a “structured walk” with my dog. This requires your dog to be able to walk on a loose leash, but it’s so worth it. Throughout the walk, I encourage the dog to engage and disengage with me at various times. We stop and sit, we climb on obstacles, I tell them to “Go Sniff!” or “Go Potty!”, and we just generally explore and play together while keeping their focus on me and how fun I am. This concept will translate well when it comes time for the session

2. Trick training - Using their regular mealtimes to go over their tricks is a great activity. Even if it’s just sit, focus, and lie down, the repetition and mixing up the order of commands is super mentally exhausting. Split the meal between you and your partner and trade-off calling the dog between the two of you for a super exhausting way to practice their recall.

3. Tug - This is my absolute favorite game by an unfathomable amount. Sage, my oldest dog, loves tug and has a really great bite, so we play this regularly! Switching between tugging, dropping the toy, and completing commands is extremely rewarding for her!

Sage, our first dog! She’s half Blue Heeler, half Border Collie, so she’s got the drive to play!

Glacier, our younger pup. Half Blue Heeler, half Aussie Shepherd. He’s less drivey and more cuddly!

Choose The Right Reward

The dog’s favorite treats are an easy win to bring to the session, but food is not the only thing you can use to motivate your dog! Any command that is rewarded with a piece of food or a treat can also be rewarded with a toy or even just a gentle touch. If your dog is unlikely to take food from your hand during the session, but may opt for a toy, bring both just in case!

For toys, I recommend something that they, of course, love playing with, but that isn’t associated with playing fetch. As mentioned before, a fetch toy will more than likely amp the dog up way too much. Additionally, fetch is an outwardly rewarding game, meaning that the reward is sent away from the owner for the dog to chase after. It’s not the game you want to play when you want photos of you and your dog together!

Squeaky toys or tug toys are the perfect choice to bring to your session, as they’re still a great reward for the dog but don’t indicate that a big long game of “run away and come back” is going to take place. 😉

Arrive 15 Minutes Early

When you’re loading up to drive to your first location, plan to arrive a few minutes early, between 15 and 30 minutes, ideally. When you get there, keep the dog on leash.

Find a quiet place in a lower-traffic area close to the parking lot where you can sit and let your dog decompress. If they’re anything like my dogs, a good sniff check is needed right after getting out of the car to assess the situation and familiarize themselves with the environment. A park bench is perfect for this! Sit down and just let the dog decompress after getting out of the car.

For my clients, I’m typically arriving at the session locations 30 minutes early anyways. This allows their dogs time to sniff me out and for me to establish myself as something that’s really no big deal! After a few minutes of hanging out, the dog is typically bored of me or on to something more interesting, which is the perfect time to begin the session!

Keep Gear To a Minimum

Even if you normally walk your dog in a bright harness, jacket, booties, collar, and a big leash, I encourage you to keep your dogs’ gear to a minimum! A collar, a 6-ft black or different dark-color leash, and a cute bandana (if that’s your jam) are all that you really need.

If you’re on private property and can trust your dogs off-leash, that’s a great opportunity to get some photos of the dogs just playing and being dogs! However, if our session is in a public area, we have to abide by the local leash laws. In this case, it’ll be much easier to hide a simple dark-colored leash behind the dog for posed photos, and it won’t be distracting for photos of you two walking the dog.

Have An Exit Strategy

If you’re anything like my couples, you’ll want a majority of the session to be about capturing you and your partner. I recommend we limit the dog-inclusive photos to maybe the first 20 minutes of the photoshoot. After that, it’s best to either safely contain the dog for the rest of the photos or get a family member to take the dog home. Here are some strategies that I recommend for getting your dog safely off-location so you two can enjoy the rest of the session…. UNLEASHED! Get it?…….

1. Drop the dog off at your home: If the first location for your session is less than 5 minutes from your home, it’s pretty simple to just take the pup back to its stomping grounds! This will also give you the opportunity to change clothes, should you want to do an outfit change.

2. Contain your dog in your car: This is a great option, but only under certain circumstances. If your dog is ok being contained in the car away from you and you know they won’t hurt themselves when alone, that’s great! The other stipulation is that you all should stay within eyesight of the vehicle and the air conditioning should probably be left on, especially in the spring and summer. If your session and location can check all those boxes, this could be a great option!

3. Get a friend or family member to take the dog home: This is the most popular option! Convince a friend or family member to take the dog to your house or their house for the remaining session time. Typically, pizza or alcohol is a suitable method of compensation here!

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Even if you’re only able to manage a couple of these tips, I assure you, after having done well over 100 of these engagement sessions, you’ll have a far more enjoyable time with your dog during the shoot! If you’re engaged and still need some amazing photos, let’s chat! I’d love to get to know you two (or three)!

A Year In Review | My Favorite Images Of 2021

Have a wedding in 2022 or beyond? Let’s do the thing!