The Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri, Served as the Backdrop for This Hyatt Regency Wedding

Once ER physicians Mary and Eric  hit the two-year mark in their engagement, they knew it was time to bring in backup: a wedding planner. Within six months, their modern affair inspired by East Asia came together. Mary chimed in with a few simple directives, like this one: “I went to my planner and said, ‘I love red roses!’” Other moments were less scripted and all the more memorable. “When it started raining after dinner, I was bummed,” Mary says. “I wanted everyone to enjoy dancing on the terrace, but having our first dance in the rain was pretty special.”

The pair met up in Luther Ely Smith Square outside the Hyatt Regency St. Louis at The Arch. “I heard Mary’s voice before I saw her,” Eric says, “and it eased me immediately.” The Gateway Arch created a dramatic backdrop for Mary and Eric’s rooftop terrace ceremony and is what originally drew them to the location.

Hydrangeas, peach ranunculus, burgundy dahlias and garden roses popped against the bridesmaids’ black gowns.
Traditional Chinese paper lanterns inspired the chandelier installation that hung above the head table, while mirrored surfaces, mercury glass, red roses, and black and metallic accents helped set the scene. Guests found their seats on gold acrylic place cards, stating the couple’s thanks.  All need-to-know details were printed on bright suede paper. The couple’s close friend (Eric’s co-resident) officiated the service, sharing funny stories from their early days of dating.