Alex and Nick's Wedding

Alex and Nick met at Mizzou. Both were Journalism majors, and met in class after Alex spent a semester abroad in Italy. If you ever have the chance to meet them, you would see it instantly - how well these two mesh together.

Just from spending a little time around them, it's hard to deny that there is a such thing as soulmates. These two are the perfect pairing - like Merlot and Roncal, or Pinot Noir and Cheddar. Alexis is funny, always joking, and makes covert funny faces. Not goofy faces, just genuinely funny facial expressions. She absolutely exudes light and ...well, happiness. And Nick seems always to be there to laugh. Words between them are light and relaxed - these two are laid-back, smiling, fun-loving people. It's difficult not to instantly like them, as I did when I first met them this past winter to talk about being their photographer (and let me tell you, it wasn't lost on me how incredibly lucky I was to have the chance to work with these two!).

The wedding, as you'll see, had a theme, and unlike some wedding themes that run the gamut of the  'trendy', this particular theme was bursting with sentimentality as well as style. From the start of the day to the finish, I kept hearing details referred to as "Tuscan", or "like in Italy" - it's safe to say that Alex kind of fell in love when she studied overseas. And - pour me a glass of vino to go with this cheese, but - it's safe to say by the way Nick looks at his Bride, that somewhere along the line he fell in love when she returned from Italy and got placed in some of his classes thanks to her time spent across the Atlantic.

Alex and Nick - you two are fantastic. Really. Separately, you both are fantastic people but together you make one heck of a divine duo. I had been looking forward to your wedding ALL YEAR - and it was everything I hoped it would be for the both of you, and so much more. You, your friends and family were amazing, and I feel so lucky to have witnessed (and documented) your day. Thank you so much for having me (and Missy!) there, for becoming friends of mine in the process. Much love and appreciation to you and your gracious families, and the wedding party and friends who let me squeeze on the trolley with you. Many blessings and congratulations. xo

Alex's stunning dress

Alex, you are absolutely gorgeous!

Alex had THE BEST BRIDESMAIDS EVER! 

They were super fun, and up for anything - even helping Alex haul her gorgeous dress onto this tractor!

She looked beautiful, right? Alex and Nick did a 'First Look' and we went to her florist's AMAZING house for photos!

The handsome Groom

The flowers were done by Mary Fritz of Windy Hill Cut Flower Farm. She did an absolutely stunning job!

After riding the Hermann Trolley back from the Windy Hill Cut Flower Farm, we did some family and friend shots and then Nick and Alex settled into their Cottage overlooking the river (where I of course continued my photographic stalking).

When it was about time for the ceremony, the group moved to the Chapel - here's Aunt Alex in the Brides Room entertaining the Best Man Austin and Bridesmaid Stacy's adorable little daughter  (who didn't think me or my camera was very funny, but luckily thought other people were!)

Here's a shot of Nick during his Declaration of Intent

And Alex during her's - I love that you can tell in her eyes how much she adores Nick.

The Kiss! Isn't Hermann Hill Chapel superb?!? Look at that beautiful view in the background! What a spectacular wedding backdrop! 

Immediately following The Kiss, Alex and Nick did something I've never seen before - they had a toast! These are the glasses for the wedding party.

And here's Nick and Alex, right after he popped the cork on the champagne bottle. All of the guests were served a glass of champagne by the amazing staff while Nick was pouring for the wedding party!

The Toast

After the Ceremony, the guests filed downstairs where the bar was ready and waiting - but mostly I was just excited to see all the details, like these PERFECT center pieces, table markers and place cards!

Why "perfect"? Because Nick's last name is Hess!

I didn't even miss the traditional wedding cake - this desert spread was pretty amazing. I can personally vouch for that 40lbs German Chocolate cake!

Hermann Hill is a fantastic venue. I was continually surprised with the staff and attention to detail. Plus the view isn't too shabby either!

Alex laughs as Nick's brother Austin, the Best Man, gives his speech

Nick had some sea monkies that didn't survive...

A sweet kiss during Alex's father's speech 

And the first dance as husband and wife.

Congratulations, you two. All my best.