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!

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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!

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

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

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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Need photos of your own? I bet we can help!

Tower Grove Park Wedding | Amanda + Alex

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Angie + Chuck - Wedding Photography in Pocahontas, Illinois

I had so much fun shooting this wedding in Pocahontas, Illinois! This venue is a gorgeous, private venue with all the features and special details you could want! I’ll do a full write-up of it soon, but for now, let’s chat about Angie and Chuck!

This story began as so many classic tales do… On Facebook marketplace with a slab of walnut lumber. I was looking to build a coffee table for my living room and stumbled upon this guy, CS Log Rescue, selling beautiful lumber not too far from where I live. So, I messaged him and went out to his shop to pick a new piece for my future table! As we were chatting, it came up that I was a photographer, and Chuck asks, “You do any weddings?”

Long story short, two months later was their wedding date, and we made it happen! Angie and Chuck are so sweet, full of joy, and were a pleasure to work with and have in front of my camera. I could not have dreamed of a better group of folks with which to spend my day photographing a wedding! See below for some of my favorites from that day at Loveland Estates!

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Stone House of St. Charles Wedding Photography | Alysa + Kyle

Wedding Photography at Stone House of St. Charles

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It feels like just yesterday that Alysa contacted me to shoot her wedding! Well, it wasn’t yesterday, but it WAS just two months ago. Dang, 2020 is weird, right? I’m gonna let you in on a little wedding photographer’s secret. There are lots of ways to attract super cool couples and convince them to shoot your wedding day. Some photographers attend wedding shows. Some photographers beg and plead while crying. I’ve done both. However, for this specific couple, I used good ol’ nepotism because Alysa is my cousin! So, of course, when Alysa and Kyle reached out to me, I was absolutely ecstatic.

This one was a fun one, and I think it’s super apparent in the sum total amount of smiles that permeated every part of the day. Also, their babies are beyond beautiful. Also, nobody dances like my family. I’ll write a full review of wedding photography at Stone House of St. Charles in the next few weeks but, as far as my initial thoughts, it’s a gorgeous venue with fantastic potential no matter the weather! It’s important that a venue be able to “work” at any point in the itinerary, during any season, and at any time during the day. During the getting ready time, you’re met with huge, soft window light and simply decorated rooms so as to not distract from the humans in the photos. The courtyard is spacious enough for family photos and totally well-lit, and the reception hall is more than equipped for anything you can throw at it.

Cassidy Eckman killed it on makeup!
Sisters Flowers knocked it out of the park on the florals!

Scroll to see some of my faves from their day…. If you dare.

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See more venues like Stone House on our full St. Louis wedding venue page!

Silver Oaks Chateau: St. Louis, Missouri Wedding Venue Review

A Wedding Photographer’s Review of Silver Oaks Chateau in St. Louis, Missouri

Silver Oaks Chateau is a totally stunning wedding venue just outside of St. Louis, Missouri, specifically located in Pacific, Missouri! In my experience, Silver Oaks Chateau is one of the best wedding venues in St. Louis. Not only is the venue totally unique, but it’s also large enough to host a wedding of just under 300 guests. As a kind of boring but super-useful benefit, it has GREAT parking which, honestly, you don’t see enough of. I had tons of fun shooting at Silver Oaks Chateau and, from getting ready to the reception, I was amazed at how gorgeous and functional this venue can be.

Starting off the day with a bang, the getting-ready spaces at Silver Oaks Chateau are roomy, well-lit, and adequately mirrored so nobody is fighting over a reflection. In the bridal suite, the comfy furniture and huge windows meant that I had plenty to work with as a photographer with beautiful light and a bridal party that was totally at ease all morning. To boot, the double doors opened up and we were able to make some tremendous portraits with that natural light goodness.

The ceremony took place at Silver Oak’s spacious courtyard which had plenty of room for all the guest’s chairs, an arbor for the couple and officiant, and all the decor. Set on top of the property, the landscape rolled gently downhill away from the ceremony and into the lush forest behind it. This is where we ended up taking some portraits afterward. It gave the entire ceremony this feeling of intimacy and vibrancy while still keeping everyone’s shoes and dresses away from the mud (it did rain a bit that day, as you may be able to tell from the photos below). I’m a huge fan of this ceremony format. When I arrived early that day to take a lap around the venue, the manager there was working diligently, making sure every chair was properly placed and that nothing was out of order. The staff at Silver Oaks Chateau definitely cares about the quality and perfection of your wedding, I can attest to that!

The reception area was equally stunning. The high vaulted ceilings, the gorgeous balcony, and the fantastic table settings made for a truly classic place to celebrate a marriage! The DJ’s uplighting really complimented the space superbly, and the balcony gave me a built-in place to put my flashes for lighting up the reception. Silver Oaks Chateau made my life easy that day and, with all the less-than-ideal weather, I welcomed the assistance! See below for some photos of the venue!

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!

Bride’s dress hanging inside Silver Oaks Chateau

Bridal getting ready suite at Silver Oaks Chateau

The loft offered a great place to read notes from each other

Bride and Bridesmaids in front of Silver Oaks Chateau.

Silver Oaks Chateau in Pacific, Missouri from the parking lot

The amazing light in the front door works well for first looks!

Wedding Ceremony at Silver Oaks Chateau

The balcony offers a gorgeous overlook of the ceremony and surrounding landscape!

The huge trees in the background offer beautiful colors and tones for after-ceremony group photos!

Wedding Portraits at Silver Oaks Chateau

Remember those double doors I mentioned before? Yeah. Awesome.

They retreated to the balcony just after the ceremony. This photo really showcases the classic, clean design of Silver Oaks Chateau.

Of course, I had to go bug them for some pictures up on the balcony… You can see the totally sweet fireplace down in the courtyard.

Traveling downhill a bit, you can get some awesome views of the tall grass, towering trees, and open sky.

The beautiful wedding reception space at Silver Oaks Chateau.

Even with the tall ceilings, beautiful light in the dancing photos is really simple to achieve!

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If you’re looking for one of the best St. Louis wedding venues to host your mid-to-large sized wedding, I wouldn’t hesitate to give the folks at Silver Oaks Chateau a call! Your photographer will thank you.

Disclaimer: I am in no way partnered or affiliated with Silver Oaks Chateau

Haue Valley: St. Louis, Missouri Wedding Venue Review

A Photographer’s Review of Haue Valley Weddings and Events

Haue Valley is a beautiful wedding venue in Pacific, MO, just a quick drive outside of St. Louis. Just a couple months ago, I had the privilege of photographing Derek and Linsey’s wedding at this exact venue! When they first told me that their wedding was going to be here, I was stoked. Not only was I taking photos of a super fun, talented, and joyful couple, but the venue would make my job on the wedding day, admittedly, very easy. In my opinion, Haue Valley is a venue that has everything you could want in an efficient, stress-free day and is one of the best options for wedding venues in the St. Louis area.

On their website, they describe themselves as hosting “Pinterest-Worthy Weddings.” These days, I’m not spending tons of time on Pinterest, but I can’t disagree with that statement. Nestled in Missouri hills, Haue Valley offers beautiful views, intimate nature settings, and comfortable ceremony and reception spaces. The venue supports ample space in terms of getting ready spaces for both the bride and the groom, so you won’t be starved for space and bumping the makeup artist’s elbow as you try to squeeze by.

As far as photo potential goes, you really can’t go wrong. If you give your photographer ample time to work, and build in a few minutes of travel time into your portrait sessions, you’re basically guaranteed to get a final product that you’d be proud to put on your wall. The venue’s property stretches for a fair amount of acres, with ponds, woodland, open spaces, and ruined buildings in which to create some really striking images.

Haue Valley’s reception space follows this overwhelming trend of quality, as well. The soft ambient lighting, dedicated bar area, outdoor covered seating, clean bathrooms, and warm rustic styling create such an idyllic mood for your wedding reception.

Okay. That was a lot of words. Some would argue that that was too many words. I’m lucky I’m a photographer! Here are some photos that I believe showcase the beauty of Haue Valley. Hopefully they assist you in your search for the perfect wedding venue.

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Exterior of Bridal Getting Ready Suite at Haue Valley

Groom’s Getting Ready space at Haue Valley

Inside the Bridal Getting Ready space at Haue Valley

Haue Valley’s gorgeous courtyard. The first look and ceremony took place here.

Inside Haue Valley’s reception hall

Wedding ceremony at Haue Valley

Like I said above, Haue Valley is no slouch when it comes to making beautiful wedding photography! Here are some of my favorite portraits that showcase a few of the locations. You can see some more here.

They have these breathtaking walls covered in greenery. In the right light, they are absolutely stunning!

The reception space also has these awesome glass doors. Perfect for snagging some last-minute family photos!

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That’s it! As a wedding photographer, I have the opportunity to shoot at countless beautiful venues. I’d be remiss if I didn’t showcase them and the potential they present to future couples! If you’d like to get in contact with Haue Valley or myself, click below!

Disclaimer: I am in no way affiliated with or partnered with Haue Valley Weddings & Events

Kristen + Andrew - St. Louis, Missouri Wedding Photography

I’m so excited to share some of my favorites from Kristen and Andrew’s St. Louis, Missouri wedding day! From their engagement session back in February, I knew they were going to be such fun to photograph on their wedding day (it helps that they were already dear friends of mine). The ceremony was at this really gorgeous private property, and the beautiful reception took place at Andre’s West. They surrounded themselves with such good friends and family throughout the day, and it shows.
This wedding had it all:

• A cool tub

• Ted Drewes (cuz we’re in St. Louis)

• Quick Trip (in case you doubted that we were in St. Louis)

• Radical dance moves

See below for photo proof that this unfathomably awesome day happened!

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