Documentary Wedding at the Jewel Box + Majorette in St. Louis, Missouri | Maura + Greg


In the heart of St. Louis, Missouri, lies a stunning blend of history, elegance, and charm. The Jewel Box and The Majorette, two iconic venues, offer a picturesque setting for couples looking to tie the knot. As a documentary and editorial wedding photographer, capturing the essence of these locations and the unique love stories of couples is a deeply fulfilling experience. This blog post takes you through a recent wedding I had the pleasure of documenting, highlighting the beauty, emotions, and intricate details that made the day unforgettable.


The Jewel Box: A Glimpse of Elegance


The Jewel Box, a beautiful greenhouse located in Forest Park, is renowned for its Art Deco design and stunning floral displays. Built in 1936, this architectural gem offers a unique and elegant setting for weddings. As the morning sun streamed through the glass panes, it illuminated the lush greenery and vibrant blooms, creating a magical atmosphere for the ceremony.


The ceremony was held under the towering glass structure, surrounded by an array of colorful flowers and tropical plants. As a documentary photographer, my aim was to capture the candid moments that conveyed the couple's genuine emotions. The look of anticipation on Greg's face as Maura walked down the aisle, the tears of joy from family and friends, and the heartfelt vows exchanged under the

plants of the Jewel Box—all these moments were preserved in their purest form.


For the editorial aspect, I focused on the architectural beauty of The Jewel Box and its harmonious blend with the natural elements. Wide-angle shots showcasing the grandeur of the greenhouse, close-ups of the intricate floral arrangements, and styled portraits of the couple amidst the greenery were all part of the visual narrative. These images not only highlight the venue but also tell a story of love and elegance.


A Transition to Festivities

After the serene ceremony at The Jewel Box, the celebration moved to The Majorette. This versatile event space, known for its blend of modern design and vintage charm, provided the perfect backdrop for the reception. The Majorette's spacious layout and eclectic decor offered endless opportunities for creative photography.


The reception area was adorned with a mix of rustic and chic elements. Long wooden tables were decorated with beautiful florals from Grow Your Own Way, candles, and gold accents, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. The seating arrangements, table settings, and lighting were meticulously planned to reflect the couple's taste and style.


As a documentary photographer, the reception offered a treasure trove of candid moments. From the heartfelt toasts and laughter shared among friends to the emotional first dance and the joyous cake-cutting ceremony, each moment was captured in its raw and authentic form. The spontaneous interactions, the unfiltered emotions, and the genuine connections between the guests and the couple were the highlights of the evening.


For the editorial shots, I focused on the details that made the reception unique. The intricate designs on the wedding cake, the beautifully arranged centerpieces, and the overall aesthetic of The Majorette were captured with an artistic eye. Portraits of the couple in different settings within the venue, utilizing the dramatic lighting and unique decor, added a touch of sophistication to the visual story.


The First Look

One of the most emotional moments of the day was the "first look" between Maura and Greg. This private moment, away from the eyes of guests, allowed the couple to share an intimate and emotional connection before the ceremony. Capturing their reactions, the tears, and the laughter provided a deeply personal glimpse into their relationship. It made it even more special that they shared this private moment at Maura's grandparents home.


Family and Friends

Weddings are not just about the couple but also about the family and friends who share in their joy. Documenting the interactions, the shared laughter, and the heartfelt hugs between the couple and their loved ones added depth to the wedding story. These moments, often fleeting, were preserved in a way that the couple can cherish forever.


The Dance Floor

The dance floor at The Majorette was a hub of energy and excitement and was made even better from JM3 Dj's. From the couple's romantic first dance to the lively moves of the guests, the dance floor provided endless opportunities for dynamic and fun photographs. As the night progressed, the candid shots of guests letting loose and enjoying the celebration became some of the most memorable images of the day.


The Art of Storytelling Through Photography

Documentary Style

Documentary wedding photography is about capturing the real, unscripted moments. It's about being present and observant, anticipating the interactions and emotions that unfold naturally. For Maura and Greg wedding, this approach allowed me to create a narrative that was authentic and true to their experience. Every smile, tear, and embrace was documented without intrusion, resulting in a collection of images that tell their story genuinely.

Editorial Style

Editorial wedding photography, on the other hand, focuses on creating visually stunning and artistically composed images. It involves a keen eye for detail, an understanding of light and composition, and the ability to create images that are both beautiful and meaningful. For this wedding, the editorial shots complemented the documentary images by highlighting the elegance of the venues, the beauty of the couple, and the intricate details that made the day special.



A wedding at The Jewel Box and The Majorette in St. Louis, Missouri, is a truly enchanting experience. As a documentary and editorial wedding photographer, capturing the essence of these venues and the love story of Maura and Greg was an incredible journey. The combination of candid moments and artistic compositions resulted in a timeless collection of photographs that the couple will cherish for a lifetime. Whether you are planning your own wedding or simply appreciate the art of wedding photography, I hope this blog post has given you a glimpse into the magic of these two iconic venues and the beauty of capturing love in its most authentic form. The Jewel Box and The Majorette offer a perfect canvas for a wedding day, and through the lens of a photographer, every moment becomes a treasured memory.


The Vendor Team:

Getting Ready: Maura's Family Home

Ceremony: The Jewel Box

Reception: The Majorette

Photographer: Megan King Photography

Florals: Grow your Own Way

DJ: JM3 DJ