Back on their third date in 2015, Ben mustered up his courage and made a confession to Samantha. He told her she met all the requirements on the soul mate wish list he’d created sometime earlier.  Samantha knew Ben was different from anyone she’d ever met. He was so easy to talk to.  But was he her soul mate?  Samantha answered that she had never made a wish list of her own.  At least that she remembered. Three days later, while shuffling through a drawer, Samantha discovered a list she’d compiled eight years earlier of the 53 qualities she desired most in her life partner.  Yes, 53!  As she reviewed the list, she realized Ben met all but three of her criteria. And one of those had to do with height. Her list specified someone tall.

Still, 50 out of 53!  It’s no wonder these two knew so soon that they were in love!  

 That early strong bond was in full view when they said their wedding vows to each other at the St. Louis Club in a charming ceremony officiated by her father.  The backdrop was a stunning wall of flowers created by David from Ken Meisner Florist, and his breathtaking bouquets look beautiful with Samantha’s Anne Barge gown and the bridesmaids pink Bella Bridesmaids gowns.  Thanks to their always competent and calm wedding planner, Barbara Hoover, the entire day was completely stress-free.  She oversaw the transformation of the ballroom into what seemed like a spring garden party with sumptuous floral arrangements on every table.  Even the wedding cake by Encore Baking Company was covered with beautiful pink flowers.  

 After Ben led Samantha to the dance floor for their first dance to the sounds of the Arvell & Company, the dance floor opened for all their guests to rock the night away.  However, what really made this wedding such a pleasure to photograph was watching Samantha and Ben - so deeply in love that all night long they seemed only to have eyes only for each other.  As her father said, “Sam and Ben are partners, and from this day shall never be alone.”  So true!