On September 20th, I had the joy of photographing Rachel and Greg’s intimate elopement at Tower Grove Park. One of the most picturesque and timeless locations in St. Louis. With its historic stone structures, lush greenery, and peaceful water features, it was the perfect setting for two people who love the outdoors and spent many years exploring the city together.

Their one request when choosing a location?
A scenic, meaningful space that reflected who they are. The Ruins at Tower Grove Park turned out to be the perfect fit.

A Ceremony at The Ruins

Their ceremony took place directly in front of The Ruins. An architectural favorite among St. Louis locals. The arches, stone textures, and soft reflections from the water behind them created the most serene and intimate atmosphere.

With only their closest loved ones standing by, Rachel and Greg exchanged vows surrounded by nature, architecture, and warmth. It felt personal. Peaceful. Authentic. Everything they hoped their elopement day would be.

Willow Trees & Whispered Moments

After the ceremony, we wandered through the winding paths of Tower Grove, eventually finding a breathtaking willow tree that felt like it was placed there just for them. Its sweeping, romantic branches and soft shade created a dream-like space for their portraits.

Those quiet moments under the willow, wrapped up in each other, laughing, soaking it all in became some of my favorite images from the entire day.

A Love Story Built on the Small Things

Every elopement has a story, but Rachel and Greg’s stands out because it’s built on the sweetest everyday moments:

They work together and still love being together!

For five years, they’ve shared both a workplace and a home, and somehow still look forward to seeing each other every day. That’s rare, and so special.

Their engagement was simple, intimate, and perfectly them.

No grand gestures. No staged surprises. Just the two of them at home, with a ring they picked out together, because Greg simply couldn’t wait any longer.

One memory Rachel will always treasure

When they were newly dating, Greg came back from a bachelor trip with a giant stuffed avocado pillow he won at Dave & Buster’s because even on a guys’ trip, she was on his mind. It was thoughtful, sweet, and wonderfully goofy; the best combination.

Their first date

Playing pool in St. Peters, MO Rachel fully admits she “showed him up.”
Quiet. Easy. Comfortable. A perfect start.

Who made the first move?

Rachel asked for his number “for work questions”. Then Greg followed up with some legendary texts.

When did they know?

There wasn’t one single “aha” moment. Love just grew slow, steady, natural; into something neither of them could imagine life without.

View Rachel & Greg’s Full Photo Gallery

Click here to view their full elopement gallery →

Congratulations to the New Mr. & Mrs. Pinson

Rachel & Greg, thank you for the honor of capturing your gorgeous Tower Grove Park elopement. Your day was warm, heartfelt, and full of quiet, meaningful moments. I’m so grateful I got to document the beginning of your forever.