All around the room hushes. Nerves mingle with feelings of anticipation as the Best Man stands and takes the mic. The clanking of silverware ceases and eyes turn toward the front. You know what everyone is wondering…will this be a roast, sentimental, insightful, hilarious, or emotional? Leading up to this moment, you know there’s been half serious / half joking comments about how to not mess this up.
Glancing down at the groom – his brother – Ely takes a deep breath and then smiles at his new sister-in-law. Everyone settles into their chairs. You could hear a pin drop. Soon roars of laughter and thuds of clapping on the tables ensue. But just as quickly as those come so do the red eyes and the sniffs…
“People don’t often remember what you say,
but they do remember how you made them feel…”
We were so impressed with the eloquence, the depth, the joy & lightheartedness Ely enfolded into one toast. He praised the character of his brother. In all the weddings we’ve photographed, there’s been a wide variety of toasts we’ve heard. Some are amazing while others are more well-intended than executed. Ely’s toast was everything you’d hope for and more. Full thought and intentionality. He spoke words of encouragement & life into this new marriage. To choose this perspective, and those words, when you hold the mic speaks volumes to the relationship and love shared between you.
People don’t often remember what you say, but they do remember how you made them feel.
And Ely left an impression on everyone in that room.
Josh & Cheryl’s wedding day was filled true, contagious joy and so many gorgeous details.
They tied the knot at the Hyatt at the Arch in downtown St Louis. The Gateway Arch was on full display from sharing their vows and celebrating with their wedding party, to dancing the night away and catching up with friends.
Josh & Cheryl’s wedding was everything chic and simultaneously effortless.
Enjoy these favorites!
(if you’re on desktop, listen while you scroll)
Cannot handle these two BABES!! No detail or happy emotion was left unnoticed.
Victoria, with A Bride’s Ally, went above and beyond planning this gorgeous wedding. She was there in the getting ready room, the back of the ceremony, and all the in-betweens making everything Cheryl could dream up a reality! The reception was just simply stunning.
Also, Josh is an independent rapper (and massive Star War fan). Their guest book with their first dance song and Photo Booth props were such fun, personalized details!
Dear Josh & Cheryl,
As cliche as it sounds, it’s true: your love for each other is so tender and real that it’s inspiring. Thank you for inviting us into your love story, your families, and your dream day. We have been so honored (and hi, it’s been SO fun!) to walk alongside you, talk details, share laughs and even tears over the past year. It goes without saying, but you two have such a beautiful marriage ahead of you. As you know, Stephen and I believe that yes, even now, the best is yet to come! We can’t wait to see what adventures you’ll have and how cute and old and adorable you’ll grow to be. Congratulations!! All the hugsssssss…
Always,
–Tara & Stephen
A huge thank you & shoutout to this team of St Louis wedding vendors that pulled off such an incredible day!
THE WEDDING CREATIVE TEAM
Photographer | Tara & Stephen, Pattengale Photography
Venue | Hyatt at the Arch
Wedding Coordination | A Bride’s Ally
Videographer | Millennium Productions
Florist | Walter Knoll Florist
Hair & Makeup Stylist| The Hair Lab Salon
Catering | The Hyatt at the Arch
Wedding Cake | McArthur’s Bakery
Wedding invitations & signage | Rock Paper Scissors
Photo Booth | Megalux Photo Booth
DJ & Lighting & Pipe and Drape Decor | Millennium Productions
Rentals & Linens | An Affair To Remember – Ceremony arch, acrylic stands, linens, chargers & candle holders
Cupcake Stand Rentals | Grand Rental Station
Loveseat Sweetheart Table Rental | Renown Rentals
Wedding Dress Bridal Salon | Mia Grace Bridal
Wedding Dress Designer | Willowby Watters
Bride’s Shoes | Badgley Mischka
Groom & Groomsmen’s Attire | Savvi Formalwear
Ceremony Traditions | Giving of roses to mothers
Wedding day colors & aesthetic theme | Elegant, white & gray, clean and intentional wedding vibe. Heirloom & sentimentally inspired.
Leave them some love in the comments or share this post with someone who was there OR might need some serious wedding inspo!
Always,
–Tara M
