St Louis Magnolia Hotel Wedding // Liz & Doug

When Liz and Doug told us they were planning a “second line” after their wedding, we had one big question: What in the world is a second line? Spoiler: it’s not a backup bridal party. It’s a full-on New Orleans–style parade, complete with a brass band, colorful umbrellas, and a trail of very confused but delighted onlookers.

As a St. Louis wedding photographer, we’ve seen a lot of unique celebrations, but this one took the cake (and then marched it down the street). The incredible Red and Black Brass Band led Liz, Doug, and their wedding party—aka the “first line”—through the streets of downtown St. Louis, while guests formed the “second line,” dancing, waving handkerchiefs, and following behind like a joyful conga line with way better music.

It was loud, lively, and completely unforgettable—the kind of wedding moment that fits our St. Louis documentary-style photography perfectly. Our job was simple: keep up with the parade, anticipate the magic, and click fast enough to capture every smile, twirl, and trumpet blast. Liz and Doug, your wedding was pure joy from start to finish.