Photo credits: Tina Halturin Photography

FLOWERS: Laura's flowers were a tight bouquet of white Bianca roses, Clara virginia roses, and greens tied with a sheer satin-edged ribbon. The bridesmaid bouquets were tied arrangements of Virginia roses, Blue Bird roses, and Limonium around the edges. The bouquets were tied with clear satin-edged ribbon also. The flowergirl's flowers were similar to the bridesmaid's, only arranged in a basket.

Laura's mother wore a corsage of Clara Virginia roses while Jeff's mother wore a corsage of oceana roses. Grandmothers and readers wore corsages of one Oceana rose and one Clara Virginia rose.

The groom wore boutonniere of two Bianca roses and the groomsmen and fathers wore oceana rose boutonnieres. The ringbearer wore a Bianca rose boutonniere to match the groom.

THE RECEPTION: The reception was held at Windows Off Washington in downtown St. Louis from 5:30 to 11:30. It began with the servers meeting guests at the door with champagne for the ride to the tenth floor of the newly remodeled St. Louis Shoe Company building. Eclectic statues, flowery plants, marble walls, and a beautiful view of downtown St. Louis. The reception began with a receiving line of Laura, Jeff, and their parents. The cake was then cut, but of course the couple had to get their fingers and faces full of icing. The reception proceeded with toasts by the best man, Jeff's brother, and the maid of honor, Laura's sister. A sit-down dinner commencing with a mixed green salad, followed by mouthwatering chicken, garlic mashed potatoes, and seasoned vegetables was enjoyed by all. The DJ began the evening festivities with dancing. At 9:30, all the guests and bridal party convened on the outside balcony to witness the fireworks display from Fair St. Louis. The crowd ooh'ed and ahh'ed at the fireworks and congratulated the couple. Laura and Jeff said their good-byes and left the reception heading for the honeymoon suite at the Ritz Carlton. The party continues the next day with a pool party at Jeff's sister's house. Everyone swam, ate, and the wedding gifts were opened. The next day they headed for Jamaica for a week-long and well-deserved honeymoon.

Photos following the ceremony were taken by Tina Halturin. Her photojournalistic style was incredible in catching expressions and quickly capturing family and traditional photos in a casual style. She was a pleasure to work with on our special day.

THINGS WE LOVED:

Laura -- I loved seeing all our families and closest friends together for a happy occasion. I loved coordinating and planning our special day. I loved viewing the fireworks at our wedding reception. It was the perfect symbol for our relationship - always fun and exciting.

Jeff -- I loved seeing Laura walk down the aisle and thought how lucky I am. I loved the uniqueness of the place of our reception. I loved the fact that we had our friends and family who love us so much that they traveled from 14 different states and two countries to be with us.

If you have questions or comments for Jeff & Laura, please e-mail them to jeffyoung@cjthomas.com.