As a seasoned St. Louis wedding photographer, I’ve had the privilege of capturing so many beautiful moments at some of the most of the best venues in the city. I have been a wedding photographer for over a decade, and I have lived in St. Louis for the majority of my professional career.
A Wedding Photographer’s Tried and True Recommendations
While there are so many venues in St. Louis that I love and adore, the ones on this list are my tried and true – wedding venues that I’ve shot at multiple times and I have always had a great experience as a wedding photographer!
Whether you’re inspired by more of a modern industrial vibe, something intimate, or an elegant outdoor backdrop, St. Louis has so many great options for engaged couples. Here are my top 5 favorite wedding venues that offer a great client AND vendor experience, and great photo opportunities (which are obviously my priority!)
Wild Carrot
It’s no secret that I love Wild Carrot and shoot here often! I think last year I shot close to half of my weddings for the year at this venue situated in Shaw, so I know its ins and outs. With its exposed brick walls, large windows, and eclectic décor, Wild Carrot provides a venue that hardly needs any decor at all. Even with its large size, walking in feels like a warm hug with its warmth and style.
Pros:
- AMAZING bridal suite upstairs with great natural light. Definitely choose this over a hotel!
- I love its ownership. They are the kindest souls.
- They have an outdoor ceremony space which makes your event convenient and all-in-one. This also makes for great natural light for ceremony photos.
- Wild Carrot’s location is convenient to so many different parks in St. Louis, as well as right off of I-44.
Cons:
- Indoor ceremonies here can be challenging because of the lighting. It can be hard with the funky shadows and I often have to use flash to compensate. It’s not a deal breaker, though!
- Outdoor ceremonies can have background noise due to its location next to the interstate. I have only found that it’s distracting if you are getting married during rush hour.
The Hall at Olive and Oak
I absolutely love this venue for so many reasons. The Hall at Olive and Oak is a new-ish venue to Webster Groves, but I have had a great experience shooting here every single time! There is so much natural light in the day and ambient light in the evening, which makes it a photographer’s dream.
As for size, I think it’s the perfect size for most medium size traditional weddings. I’ve also shot a wedding here where they did a room flip with ceremony beforehand, and it worked out really well!
Pros:
- Natural light galore which makes for AMAZING photos!
- I am obsessed with the booth sign that can say “I fucking love you” – a great picture opportunity! Don’t worry, it changes back to a PG message for your grandma.
- If you have dined at Olive + Oak, you know the food and drinks are absolutely divine.
- It’s situated in the heart of Webster Groves, which is picturesque.
Cons:
- Cocktail hour in the entrance area can feel a little cramped if you are having a larger wedding. It’s been a bit tough to get candids in this space.
- At the time of writing this (early 2025), they do not offer any private couples suite for getting ready that I’m aware of.
Verde on Cherokee
For the intimate wedding couples, Verde on Cherokee is perfect. I am obsessed with intimate weddings at Verde on Cherokee! I have shot at this Cherokee Street venue 3 times in the last 2 years. I love the space they offer for couples who don’t want to sacrifice a gorgeous backdrop just because they are having a more intimate wedding.
Verde on Cherokee here in St. Louis is a hidden gem. Quite literally it feels hidden on Cherokee Street unless you’re looking for it! In the back of the storefront is a greenhouse space filled with lush greenery, bohemian ambiance, and a colorful mural that I love.
Pros:
- An affordable option for a gorgeous micro-wedding venue
- You can utilize the outdoor space as well as the indoor space. I have seen cocktail hour and first dances outdoors with an intimate dinner inside.
- Even in chilly weather, the space is heated. I have shot a December ceremony here with no complaints.
Cons:
- The kitchen and bathroom space is in a separate area and can be a bit hard for guests to find.
- Street parking may be hard on a busy day on Cherokee Street.
World’s Fair Pavilion in Forest Park
If you’re dreaming of an outdoor wedding with St. Louis history, the World’s Fair Pavilion is a top choice. Overlooking Forest Park, this venue offers breathtaking views and grand architecture.
I absolutely love World’s Fair Pavilion for the blank space that it offers, while also being a space that is great for larger guest lists. I have seen luxury wedding planners and florists transform the space into something breathtaking.
Pros:
- You can have your ceremony overlooking Forest Park, and then move the party into the pavilion. This is so convenient to guests!
- The space is a blank slate, with so many options and ideas.
- Such a cool location to show off St. Louis, especially for your out of town guests!
Cons:
- Since the venue is outdoors, it could be warm or cold during your wedding. I have witnessed both! St. Louis can be so unpredictable with its weather, so make a plan!
- There is not a ton of parking, so I recommend hiring a shuttle bus to transport your guests.
- The pavilion is through the government, so you may not get the customer experience you would at a privately owned venue.
The Dogwood in the Grove
I love this venue! Located in the heart of The Grove, The Dogwood venue offers a blend of contemporary style and urban charm. The interior is so sleek, vibrant, and versatile with spaces that can be transformed to your style! No detail was overlooked at The Dogwood in my opinion, and I think it offers such a cool space for trendy couples. Their staircase is *chefs kiss* and I’ve seen so many cool floral installations – a dream for a wedding photographer!
Pros:
- BEST FOOD EVER. Just trust me. I’ve had a lot of wedding food.
- Bridal suite right next door for easy access!
- I love the balcony overlooking Manchester Avenue. So many great picture opportunities!
- Great location for guests if they want to go out for an afterparty.
Cons:
- The groom’s quarters doesn’t have a ton of natural light
- Parking as a vendor can be challenging since it’s off a busy street. But should not be a dealbreaker!
Booking your St. Louis Wedding Venue
No matter which venue you choose, St. Louis offers an incredible array of options. I could make another list (and I just might). Just remember these are the venues I have shot at frequently! I have had great experiences at so many others too, so don’t hesitate to ask my opinion on other St. Louis venues.
Whether you’re drawn to the modern charm of Wild Carrot or the timelessness of the World’s Fair Pavilion, each location provides a stunning backdrop for your big day. As an experienced St. Louis wedding photographer, I’d love to help capture your special moments at any of these venues or new ones that you may have found!
If you’re looking for a photographer who knows these venues inside and out and can offer a great wedding client experience, let’s connect! Visit my contact page to inquire about availability and my collections.
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