Amanda and Luke’s wedding at City Cottage on Chouteau

Amanda and Luke met in a game of capture the flag when they were 15. They were friends first and know that’s “what has maintained their relationship over the course of 15 years.” The best friends and engaged couple decided to incorporate their whirlwind Italy honeymoon theme into their wedding celebration. After their traditional ceremony at St. Peter Catholic Church, they held the reception at City Cottage on Chouteau and filled their guest with tasty Italian appetizers, espresso cake with gelato and late-night woodfired pizza. We’re loving the cozy mood and bright fall palette with gorgeous florals by Bozzay Florist. Lucky for us Mike Cassimatis Photography was on had to capture it all.

What made the wedding special and unique? 

Our wedding ceremony took place at Luke’s childhood parish, St. Peter Catholic Church. We chose all of the music – from Yeah Yeah Yeahs to Andrea Bocelli – arranged and performed by musicians & family friends. Our reception venue was specifically chosen for its vintage European charm. We were headed to Italy the next day for a whirlwind honeymoon, and we wanted to bring Italy to our guests through an informal cocktail-style celebration.

Tell us about the gown and where/how you found it!

I always dreamed of wearing a lace gown, and I found the perfect vintage-modern sheath Kenneth Winston at Signature Bridal in Chesterfield, MO. I knew the moment I put it on, that it was the one. And the tears that welled up in mom’s eyes said it all. I paired the gown with green velvet shoes, just a little pop of my favorite color.

What were some touches added to make the wedding personal? 

We are total foodies and wanted to share our favorite flavors with our guests. Guests enjoyed gourmet breads and cheeses, specialty sandwiches, stuffed peppers and homemade toasted ravioli (a St. Louis favorite). Wood-fired pizza was a late night patio snack, topped off with vanilla and chocolate-espresso cake from The Cakery and gelato from a local gelateria on The Hill. Guests parted with individual bottles of Limoncello, made & bottled by us.

What was the most memorable part of the day?

Narrowing the day down to one most memorable part would be tough – the entire day was special and was full of family and friends. From getting ready with family and the wedding party; to the long-awaited ceremony, photo session, and reception, we were able to celebrate the day just the way we hoped.

Tell us how you met and became engaged.

We met at 15, playing capture the flag at a mutual friend’s house. He went to Kirkwood High School and I went to Nerinx Hall, an all-girls Catholic school. We were friends for a long time before dating, and know that is what has maintained our relationship over the course of 15 years. Luke popped the question (finally!) at Trattoria Marcella, our favorite restaurant, on Thanksgiving Eve, 2015.

Photography: Mike Cassimatis Photography // Flowers: Bozzay Florist // Invitation Designer: Monica Illig // Ceremony: St. Peter Catholic Church, Kirkwood // Reception: City Cottage on Chouteau, Catering St. Louis // Invitation Printer: AlphaGraphics // Rings: Vinciguerra Jewelers // Bride’s Dress: Kenneth Winston, Signature Bridal // Bride’s Shoes: J.Crew // Groom’s Suit: Jos A. Bank // Groom’s Shoes: Cole Haan // Veil/Hair Accessory/Boutonnieres: Etsy Shop Pomp & Plumage // Bridesmaids Dresses + Accessories: J.Crew // Groomsmen Suits: Jos A. Bank // Cake: The Cakery // Gelato: Gelato di Riso