The Continuing Adventures of Jon and Zoya

 I'm happy to say that Jon and Zoya, who's engagement session was my first blog entry, are no longer engaged.

 They are now married!

Zoya is Russian and it was an absolute pleasure to meet her friends and family that traveled to St. Louis for the wedding. They are wonderful people and I was fortunate to have the opportunity to spend a couple days getting to know them along with some Russian traditions and customs.

The couple exchanged personalized vows at the picturesque World Fair Pavilion in Forest Park.  

Unity Candles aren't a good option outdoors, especially at the always windy World's Fair Pavilion. So Jon and Zoya opted for a sand ceremony. The mixing of multi-colored sand, while a more modern "tradition" has become quite popular for these events.

Zoya is a tall Russian beauty that should looks and moves like a fashion model rather than the accountant she truly is. Her looks combined with the incredible natural light of the Pavilion certainly made my job easy. We created some beautiful portraits together.

Zoya's stature however, didn't make Jon's job easy when it came to the customary kiss. So, I arranged a little surprise. At the right moment, the best man produce a foot stool I'd brought with me. For once, Jon could be taller than Zoya. Everyone thought it was hilarious and totally appropriate for this fun loving couple. 

Considering the geographic diversity of this couple, some quick, yet unique Arch pictures were a must before heading to the reception. 

A wedding as unique as this one required an equally stunning reception. 

Kemoll's Top of the Met with it's incredible view of Saint Louis was the choice.

  Millenium Productions transformed the room into something truly spectacular with draping and lighting effects. They created the perfect backdrop for the many traditional toasts that took place.

 Have I mentioned that Russian's love Vodka? The Vodka was just like Jon and Zoya...

The Best!

Introducing: Mr. and Mrs. Shinkle

Anyone that knows me or reads my blog knows how honored I am to be part of every single wedding.  However, I was especially honored to be chosen by Jennifer and Jason because the wedding was on a weekday.  They could have chosen any photographer in town, many of which would have given them incredible deals simply to book a weekday wedding. But thanks to Jenny, the found and chose me to capture their day.

  Simply saying thank you seems inadequate.

The inscription on Jennifer and Jason's Unity Candle obviously wasn't just a saying. The fun they had on their wedding day was evidence of how much they love being in each other's company. They lit their Unity Candle, quite appropriately, at the Unity Church of Peace.

After a wonderful ceremony we went to Sylvan Springs Park for a lot of fun pictures. The love that Jennifer and Jason have just shows. They certainly made my job easy and I can't even begin to describe the fun we had together!

And although it's slightly off topic... how can I leave a shot of a flower this cute out?

It was a great day.

Thanks Jennifer and Jason. 

And without Jenny it wouldn't have happened.

Thanks Jenny! 

You've GOT to love a bride that wears flip flops and climbs on walls!

Who likes boring pictures? 

I don't.

Cate certainly doesn't!

Thanks to fun loving couples and their wedding parties I'm now creating images that truly represent the personalities of those involved. 

 

In the past, the obligatory photography sessions that accompany a wedding have been dreaded my most of those involved.

  My goal is to change that!  

Cate and Rob were incredible to work with. 

Their families and friends are equally awesome.

Thanks to everyone involved!