As a wedding photographer, every event I cover tells a unique story filled with love, joy, and unforgettable moments. Recently, I had the incredible opportunity to document a wedding at two iconic St. Louis venues: the historic Shrine of St. Joseph and the sophisticated Ballpark Hilton Hotel. The juxtaposition of these two locations provided a rich canvas for capturing a day full of emotion and celebration.
The day began at the Ballpark Hilton hotel for getting ready photos + some bridal party photos apart from one another. Then onto the Shrine of St. Joseph, a historic church known for its stunning architecture and profound sense of reverence. The shrine, with its intricate stained glass windows and ornate altars, offered a breathtaking backdrop for the wedding ceremony. As a photographer, this setting allowed for capturing both the grandeur of the venue and the intimate moments of the ceremony.
Key Moments at the Shrine
The Ceremony: The ceremony itself was a blend of tradition and personal vows. The soft light filtering through the stained glass windows created a divine atmosphere, enhancing every shot. From the exchange of rings to the first kiss, each moment was framed by the church’s timeless beauty.
Candid Emotions: One of my favorite shots was of the groom, teary-eyed, as he watched his bride walk down the aisle. These candid emotions are the heart of documentary wedding photography, capturing the true essence of the day.
Transition to the Ballpark Hilton Hotel: A Stylish Reception
After the sacred ceremony at the Shrine of St. Joseph, the celebration moved to the Ballpark Hilton Hotel. This modern venue offered a perfect contrast to the historic church, providing a stylish and contemporary setting for the reception. The hotel, with its sleek interiors and views of the St. Louis skyline, allowed for dynamic and vibrant photographs.
Highlights at the Ballpark Hilton
- Grand Entrance: The newlyweds made a grand entrance into the elegantly decorated ballroom. Capturing their joy as they were greeted by cheering friends and family was a highlight. The blend of excitement and love in the room was palpable.
- First Dance: The couple’s first dance was a moment of pure magic. The dimmed lights, combined with the soft glow of the chandeliers + candles, created a romantic ambiance. Capturing their smiles and whispered words made for some truly enchanting photos.
- Toasts and Speeches: The heartfelt speeches by friends and family provided numerous candid moments. Laughter, tears, and warm embraces filled the room, and I made sure to capture these genuine interactions that would be cherished forever.
- Dancing and Celebration: As the night progressed, the dance floor became a hub of energy and joy. Guests of all ages joined in the celebration, and I focused on capturing the spontaneous and lively atmosphere.
Photographing a wedding that spans two such distinctive venues is a rewarding challenge. The contrast between the sacred beauty of the Shrine of St. Joseph and the modern elegance of the Ballpark Hilton Hotel provided a rich tapestry of experiences and emotions to capture.
The key to successful wedding photography lies in being unobtrusive yet present, ready to capture every fleeting moment of genuine emotion. The combination of traditional and contemporary settings allowed for a diverse range of photographs that told the complete story of the couple’s special day.
A wedding at the Shrine of St. Joseph and the Ballpark Hilton Hotel offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern sophistication. For couples looking to blend the sacred and the celebratory, these venues provide an ideal setting. As a wedding photographer, capturing such a day is both an honor and a delight, as it allows for creating a visual narrative that is as beautiful and dynamic as the love story being celebrated.
Every wedding is a unique journey, and through my lens, I strive to capture the moments that will become lasting memories. The wedding at these two remarkable St. Louis venues was a perfect example of how diverse settings and genuine emotions combine to create a truly unforgettable experience.
The Vendor Team:
Planning: Big Designs LLC
Ceremony: Shrine of St. Joseph
Reception: Ballpark Hilton Hotel
Florals: Thorn Studio
Music: Pure Entertainment
Hair + Makeup: Emily Miller Hair and Makeup
Transportation: Platinum Transportation
Desert: Hanks Cheesecakes
