Nancy & Denton’s Stonegate Glass Chapel Wedding
Nancy and Denton were married on Saturday, March 7, 2026 at Stonegate Glass Chapel, and this wedding ended up being a memorable one for more than a few reasons. It was my first big wedding back after a couple of months away from weddings — months that were honestly pretty hard on me both physically and emotionally. Walking into the day, I was excited but also a little nervous. Adding to that, Nancy had requested 12 hours of photography coverage, which is something I had never actually done before. But the moment I stepped into the getting ready suite that morning, the energy of the day took over in the best way.
Getting Ready at the Hilton Convention Center
We started the morning at the Hilton Convention Center and Hotel on Branson Landing. (Fun fact: if you’re booking here, make sure you clarify which Hilton on the Landing — there are two. Ask me how I know.) By the time I arrived, the getting ready party was already in full swing. Music was playing, balloons were everywhere, and there was an incredible breakfast and coffee spread set up for everyone.
While the excitement continued around me, I got started on detail photos before the day really picked up speed. Once the details were finished, we stepped out onto the balcony for a few champagne toast photos. Then the group pulled off one of the cutest moments of the morning — a balloon send-off from the balcony before we all headed to Stonegate.
Getting Ready at Stonegate Glass Chapel
Once we arrived at Stonegate Glass Chapel, the group still had a little more getting ready to do. I took the opportunity to grab a few more detail shots before it was time for everyone to get dressed. Their getting ready photos honestly looked like they belonged in a magazine — and the best part was I didn’t really have to pose anyone. The light was beautiful, everyone was relaxed, and the moments just unfolded naturally. Once everyone was ready, we moved into a series of first looks that were some of the most emotional parts of the day.
Nancy shared special first looks with:
her sisters
her dad
her mother-in-law and sister-in-law
And Denton had a really sweet moment with his mom as well. Each one was different, but every single one of them was incredibly meaningful.
Private Vows and Couple Portraits
Nancy and Denton also chose to share a first look and private vows, which created such a quiet, intentional moment before the ceremony. These moments always give couples a chance to slow down together before the rest of the day begins moving quickly. Afterward, we captured a few portraits together before it was time to transition into the ceremony.
A Beautiful Ceremony at Stonegate
With everyone gathered inside the chapel, Nancy and Denton exchanged vows surrounded by family and friends. Stonegate ceremonies always have a peaceful atmosphere, and this one was no exception. Once the ceremony concluded, we moved into family photos followed by bridal party portraits. Then we finished up with a few more bride and groom portraits — and Nancy and Denton made it easy. They were honestly just effortlessly stunning together.
A Reception Full of Lebanese Tradition
After portraits wrapped up, the evening took a really unique and memorable turn. Nancy and her family are originally from Lebanon, and she had hired a Lebanese entertainment group to perform during the reception. Throughout the night, the group played traditional drums and danced with the crowd. It was such a cool experience to photograph. (Even if my eardrums may never be the same.) Watching two groups of people from different cultures come together and celebrate the love they all shared for Nancy and Denton was something really special to witness.
Ending the Night with a Sparkler Exit
The night wrapped up with a sparkler exit, followed by a few final limo photos before Nancy and Denton headed out for the evening. Sparkler exits always bring a fun burst of energy to the end of the night and make for a beautiful final moment in the gallery.
A Personal Note After the Day
I will say this wedding reminded me of something people don’t always realize about this job. Wedding photography takes a lot of physical and mental stamina.
You don’t have to be able to run marathons or lift weights for hours, but if you’ve been away from weddings for a while, it definitely takes a little time for the muscles (and brain) to get back into the rhythm of a full wedding day. This wedding took me a little while to recover from — but it was absolutely worth it.
Final Thoughts
Nancy and Denton’s wedding was full of meaningful moments, beautiful traditions, and so much energy from the people who love them most.
It was the kind of day that reminds you why weddings matter in the first place — not because everything goes perfectly, but because people come together to celebrate something bigger than themselves. And that kind of joy always makes for an incredible day to photograph.
Vendor Dream Team:
Venue: Stonegate Glass Chapel
Floral: Linda’s Flowers
Dress: Savvy Bridal STL
Cake: Sugar Leaf Bakery
Food: Catering Creations
Bridesmaids: Azazie
Mens: Savvi Formalwear
Entertainment Group: Mijana Zaffeh Group
Hair: Presley Walsh at High Volume Salon
Makeup: Brianna Kiser
Photography: Shalyn O’Neal Photography