The Journal

Recent weddings, planning advice, engagement sessions, and thoughtful resources for couples planning a celebration that feels true to them.

Whether you're looking for inspiration or practical guidance, I hope these stories help you enjoy the journey.

Shalyn O'Neal 6/26/26 Shalyn O'Neal 6/26/26

Brooke & Michael’s Missouri Botanical Garden Wedding

A simple and elegant Missouri Botanical Garden wedding with beautiful florals, a relaxed timeline, and meaningful, personal moments.

Shalyn O'Neal 6/30/25 Shalyn O'Neal 6/30/25

Brittany & Alex’s Sweet Family Wedding at Stonegate Glass Chapel

A beautiful family-focused wedding at Stonegate Glass Chapel, complete with sweet first looks, meaningful details, and one very emotional father-daughter dance.

Shalyn O'Neal 5/26/25 Shalyn O'Neal 5/26/25

A Joyful March Wedding at Samuel Cedars for Kimberly & Shawn

Kimberly & Shawn’s long-awaited spring wedding at Samuel Cedars was full of sunshine, laughter, and one of the liveliest receptions I’ve seen in a while.

Shalyn O'Neal 5/5/25 Shalyn O'Neal 5/5/25

Saige & Quint’s Classy Black & White Wedding at Stonegate Glass Chapel

From Shrek references to cigar photos, Saige & Quint’s black and white Stonegate wedding had it all—heartfelt moments, creative portraits, and big dance floor energy.

Shalyn O'Neal 4/28/25 Shalyn O'Neal 4/28/25

A Simple & Sweet Early Spring Wedding at Stonegate Glass Chapel

Brittney & Spencer’s March wedding at Stonegate Glass Chapel was everything a spring celebration should be—relaxed, romantic, and full of golden light.

Shalyn O'Neal 5/13/24 Shalyn O'Neal 5/13/24

Nikki & Joshua's Spring Elopement with Pink Gender Reveal

This elopement held an extra special surprise, one that would add an extra layer of joy and excitement to the occasion. Nikki and Joshua chose to incorporate a gender reveal into their celebration, a moment of anticipation and wonder shared with their blended family. As they revealed the gender of their unborn child, the air was filled with a mixture of exhilaration and nervous anticipation. And when the smoke cannons burst, showering the crowd in a cascade of pink, there was no denying the overwhelming sense of joy!

Shalyn O'Neal 5/3/24 Shalyn O'Neal 5/3/24

Lydia & Kyler's Charming Small Church Country Wedding

Set against the backdrop of a small white church nestled Southwest Missouri, Lydia and Kyler's wedding was a testament to the beauty of simplicity. With only their closest family in attendance, it was an intimate gathering that truly captured the essence of love and togetherness.

Shalyn O'Neal 4/29/24 Shalyn O'Neal 4/29/24

Romantic Elopement at Stonegate Glass Chapel

Lisa and Brian's private elopement at Stonegate Glass Chapel was a testament to the beauty of love in its purest form. Surrounded by the scenic beauty of the chapel and the warmth of their loved ones, the couple began their married life with a sense of peace and contentment that will surely last a lifetime.