Justin and Stacey
Told on:
October 23, 2025 in Clayton, Missouri
Event Summary:
A Cinematic St. Louis Engagement Session at High Bar Clayton + Shaw Park
Location: High Bar at AC Hotel St. Louis Clayton + Shaw Park, St. Louis, Missouri
Meeting Stacey & Justin — When Clients Feel Like Old Friends
Leading up to this session, I had that familiar flutter — the one you get when you just know a couple is going to be extraordinary to photograph. From our very first Zoom call, Stacey and Justin felt like instant friends. We laughed, talked about their story, how they fell in love, and their vision for their wedding day. Within minutes, I knew: these were my kind of people.
So when Stacey shared her dream vision for their St. Louis engagement session — espresso martinis with an editorial rooftop vibe at High Bar Clayton, followed by romantic golden-hour portraits in Shaw Park — I was already mentally packing my cameras.
It was the perfect blend of modern editorial energy and soft, nostalgic fall romance.
Starting at High Bar — Editorial City Views & Effortless Chemistry
We met at High Bar on the 11th floor of the AC Hotel St. Louis Clayton at 3pm. With my harness on and both digital and film cameras ready, I waited by the elevator. And the moment the doors opened? Hugs all around — the kind that instantly make you feel like you’re exactly where you belong.
The rooftop terrace was all ours. Soft autumn sun. Clean architecture. A skyline scattered with warm tones. Everything you dream of for editorial engagement photos in St. Louis.
We shot on the terrace, wandered back inside for elevator shots (because… it’s the moment), and then stopped at the lobby bar for flash and film. Every frame felt like a magazine spread — sleek, intimate, and beautifully candid.
Stacey and Justin laughed, held each other close, whispered little things only they could hear… Their love is the effortless kind, the “we’re best friends and soulmates” kind. I swear I said, “I adore you guys!” a dozen times because watching two people this connected is genuinely the best part of my job.
We ended our rooftop time with espresso martinis — the most them thing ever — and a quick outfit change before heading to Shaw Park.
Shaw Park at Golden Hour — Nostalgic Fall Romance
Stepping into Shaw Park felt like stepping into Central Park in the fall. Soft gold leaves, glowing light, a cool breeze — the kind of atmosphere that feels cinematic and timeless.
Stacey and Justin moved through the space naturally. No over-direction. No forced poses. Just two people who genuinely love being together. Photographing them felt like documenting a love story as it unfolded in real time.
These moments are why I adore being a St. Louis engagement photographer.
What I Loved Most About This Session
Intentional locations.
A couple deeply in love.
And the perfect blend of editorial edge with warm, romantic storytelling.
This session was everything I could hope for — authentic, elevated, emotional, and overflowing with joy. I already can’t wait to celebrate with Stacey and Justin again next June and capture their wedding day in all its magic.
Planning Your Own St. Louis Engagement Session?
Whether you’re dreaming of an editorial rooftop, a cozy fall aesthetic, or something uniquely your own, I’d love to help you bring your vision to life.
✨ Let’s create something unforgettable together.
