St. Louis Elopement at the Shrine of St. Joseph

On a beautiful September afternoon, I had the joy of capturing one of the most heartfelt elopements I’ve witnessed as a wedding photographer. Maggie and Ryder’s intimate ceremony took place at the Shrine of St. Joseph, a historic St. Louis gem known for its rich architectural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. Maggie and Ryder chose to keep things simple and personal, surrounded only by their closest family members. This intimate setting allowed love and emotion to shine through in each photograph. The emotion, the wiping away of tears, and the laughter—every moment was deeply genuine and beautifully raw.

Fashion Forward Bride and Groom

What made this elopement even more special was the bride’s one-of-a-kind dress. Her fashion-forward gown featured romantic ruffled sleeves and a dramatic high-low hemline with a sweeping train. She paired it with Jimmy Choo heels that added a modern yet timeless touch. The groom looked effortlessly classic in a tailored navy suit, his boutonniere echoing the soft pastels of the bridal bouquet.

After the ceremony, the couple exited in style—cruising away in a mint green 1950s Chevy Bel-Air, complete with a “Just Married” sign on the back. The vintage car added a cinematic flair to their elopement portraits and was the perfect complement to Maggie and Ryder’s vibe. The soft golden light filtering through the trees, and the joy radiating from the couple made this day unforgettable. It was a reminder that small weddings can be just as powerful, emotional, and stylish as grand affairs.

As a wedding photographer, these are the stories I live for. If you’re planning an intimate elopement or are drawn to a mix of historic charm and vintage romance, the Shrine of St. Joseph in St. Louis might just be your perfect venue.

Vendors:
Photography: Jordan Grover Photo – St. Louis Wedding & Elopement Photographer
Venue: Shrine of St. Joseph
Bride’s Dress: Selkie