September 20, 2022 | Elise Dunn Photography
Emma + Kevin said “I do” in serious St. Louis style. The celebration incorporated their love of Forest Park and the World’s Fair Pavilion was the perfect backdrop.
“Kevin and I spent many of our first dates in Forest Park – taking long walks or picnicking when the weather was nice. Kevin also proposed near The Muny. After we decided to have our reception at the World’s Fair Pavilion, we knew we wanted to incorporate subtle elements of Forest Park throughout our day! Our talented graphic designer helped craft a seating chart that showcased our favorite landmarks in Forest Park. Each guest table was named after a landmark in the park too. And to bring the theme home, our band played “Saturday in the Park” as the first song of the night. We LOVE you Forest Park!”
“There were so many memorable moments throughout our day – but a few of them will live in my heart forever! One of my favorite moments (no surprise!) was seeing Kevin for the first time on our wedding day. I vividly remember waiting in the vestibule area – arm and arm with my dad, ready to walk down the aisle of the church. Before walking down, my dad (who is also named Kevin!) told me to take a few deep breaths and look at everyone who was seated in the pews. I remember feeling so thankful and grateful in that moment. Seconds later, the doors swung upon and I saw my soon-to-be husband standing at the end of the aisle with the biggest smile and a look of pure joy on his face. In the months leading up to our wedding, we talked about what that “first look” would be like and it was everything I thought it would be, and more!”
“My advice to couples planning a wedding would be to focus on the details that are most meaningful to you both! Whether it’s flowers, special songs, a piece of decor on the table, or a seating chart that reflects your personalities. It’s easy to get overwhelmed with every detail, but focusing on a few aspects that matter most will help prevent stress and overthinking. Oh, and brides, make sure you don’t forget to bring your veil to the church! Somehow, that small detail got lost in the shuffle, and our ceremony started about 20 minutes late! Although, it makes for a funny story to tell now.”
“In the days leading up to our wedding – our band, Spectrum, asked if we wanted to have a ‘New Orleans’ style exit to “When the Saints Go Marching In.” We said, absolutely! Kevin and I danced through a tunnel of our closest friends and family! When we got to the bottom of the stairs of the pavilion after the exit, Kevin and I sat down and looked back up at the pavilion and watched our guests savor the last few moments of the night and reflected on what had been the best day of our lives. I remember never wanting to forget that incredible feeling!”
THE DETAILS
Ceremony Location: Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church
Reception Venue: World’s Fair Pavilion in Forest Park
Caterer: Butler’s Pantry
Wedding Planner: aRay of Events
Florist: Roses & Mint
Attire:
Gown: Romona Keveza from Mimi’s Bridal at Town & Country
Reception Dress: Odylyne the Ceremony
Formalwear: Black Tux
Bridesmaid Dresses: Each bridesmaid chose their own dress! Theme was light blue and floral!
Bride + Attendants Hair & Makeup: Brides by Brady, Brady Nance
Cake: Celebrating Life Cake Boutique
Ceremony Music: Peggy Lord & Peggy Fonke (vocalists)
Reception Music: Spectrum Band
Specialty Lighting and Décor: Aries Co. & Decorum Events
Rentals: Aries Co. & Decorum Events
Paper goods: Jordan Smith, That Designer Friend + The Ink Spot + The Done Department, Sip Sip Hooray
Transportation: All About You Limos & St. Louis Trolley Company
Videographer: Metrospect Media
