katie gets hitched

Our annual trip up to St. Louis usually takes place at either Christmas or Thanksgiving...this year, however, with my cousin Katie's wedding in September, we decided to make our trip a little earlier this year than usual.

As I've said, our week there was quite nice, and very relaxing...and we wrapped it all up with the wedding on Saturday. We actually left the wedding reception at 9:30 pm, loaded up the car, changed clothes, and hit the road for Texas by 11:00 pm. Drove about 4 hours to Joplin, then finished up the rest on Sunday.

In recapping the trip, I thought I would begin with a post about the wedding...so, starting at the end of the week.

Their wedding was at a vineyard in Washington, MO...a very pretty location in itself, and it overlooked the river, making some gorgeous scenery...

Right before the ceremony, my uncle Steve walked my aunt Karen down the "aisle" so that she could be seated...they both looked so stunning! They just celebrated their 10th anniversary...



After the procession made its way to the alter, my cousin Katie rode in on a horse-drawn carriage...quite an entrance!



Being walked the rest of the way by my uncle Steve...



The ceremony itself was very nice, and their vows were unique and looong. Chris was very glad that we didn't have long vows like that! :) And then the kiss...so sweet. I love this one...



And the new couple was announced...



And into their carriage for their getaway...



After the ceremony, the wedding party took a lot of photos before the reception...and we took the opportunity to capture some photos of our own...here we are in front of the river scenery...



Mom and Randy in front of the little pond...



We captured a lot of photos at the reception, some of them turned out so good. I was pleased...

Me and mom at the reception...



Me and my beautiful grandma...



Me with the bride!



The bride and her mom...



Me with my aunt Karen...



And the parents of the bride...



Such a happy occasion...my cousin was beautiful and was simply glowing with happiness. I wish them endless years of joy. May their love never falter...