The Cowboy and the Girl Next Door

We have had a number of country weddings this year, and even though both Joel and I are mostly city-people, we are totally loving the chance to do these country weddings. Joel says that even though he grew up in Belleville in a city home, the country life seeped into his heart. I guess that no matter what house or neighborhood you are from, the Midwest gets to who you are (in a very good way). Megan reminds me of the girl next door – running through a field in her cowboy boots, laughing, totally sweet and endearing. Jake is your easy-going cowboy. He’s full of confident charisma, charming and strong. We’ve enjoyed getting to know them in the relatively brief time that we’ve had together. I think everyone who knows them would agree that they are a special couple and so much fun to be around. They were a referral from our fellow photographer friend Amanda Zika, and we were SO thrilled that she sent them our way.

Their wedding was a sweet, all-American affair (complete with various pies instead of cake! How awesome is that? I’m not a big cake fan, but I love pie, so I was thrilled at this break from tradition). There were a number of other unique things that they thought up for their day, and one of Joel’s favorites was the take away gifts they gave to their guests. Most people usually give candy or something along those lines. Megan and Jake gave everyone little glass jars full of honey. So awesome. We have ours sitting in our pantry right now, and we definitely have been using it. The weather was perfect, and all-in-all I’d say it was a rather picturesque day.

When we were discussing locations for the photos, Megan really wanted a farm – barns, fields, etc. so when they were driving one day they spotted a perfect location. Jake was all for stopping right then and there to ask the owners if they could take their wedding photos there, but Megan talked him into calling instead. The owners were delighted, and so were we when we arrived. There were Clydesdales, miniature donkey’s and a great working barn for us to use. We had fun getting the bridal party onto the hay wagon, and everyone thought the miniature donkey’s were adorable. They even munched on Megan’s bouquet. All in all we had a great time, and it was a pleasure to get to be a part of Megan and Jake’s special day. They are both dearly loved by their family and friends, and we wish them all the happiness in the world as they start their new life together as husband and wife!

Written by Joel Conner | St. Louis Wedding Photographer