Gretchen and Antoine are one of the sweetest couples I’ve ever photographed. They’re so in love —you can tell by how they look at each other, how they embrace. It’s almost tangible. And it makes them so easy to photograph! Theirs is a love story of two people living in different parts of the world, brought together by way of the Internet. After graduating from New York University, Gretchen moved to France to be with Antoine and teach English. They married in Paris this past fall, but wanted to have a wedding in Missouri, too— so they did.
One thing that you can’t see in these photos is that Antoine’s parents couldn’t attend because his mother is battling cancer and isn’t able to travel. So Gretchen and Antoine Facetimed them earlier in the day (there is a photo of that!) and recorded the ceremony and parts of the reception to share with them afterwards. Unfortunately, Gretchen’s father also missed part of the evening — he injured his hip about an hour before the ceremony and wasn’t able to walk Gretchen down the aisle. Without hesitation her three sisters stepped in, making for an extra memorable processional. Her father was able to stay for the ceremony, then left for the hospital. Suprisingly, he returned later in the evening, making for some emotional moments for Gretchen and her mom upon seeing him return. And per usual, the sunset out at Les Bourgeois was a stunner from the blufftop vantage point. I always love taking couples out there for a few portraits using the very last of the sun’s rays.
Gretchen and Antoine, thank you for asking me to document your Missouri wedding! As you return to Paris and get settled back into your daily routines, may these photos bring you lots of joy and happiness as you relive one of the best days of your life together! Enjoy!
