Holiday cheer: During the weekend before Thanksgiving, Hardy insisted on putting up the Christmas tree—which was completely out of character for him. On the other hand, Natalie, who admits to being obsessed with the holiday, was too excited to care. They then ate at Olive + Oak. When they returned home, a path of rose petals lined with candles and vases of red roses led to the Christmas tree, which had a heart-shaped ornament with a note inside. The moment that Hardy opened the door, Natalie started crying.
Ceremony & Reception: The couple tied the knot on a scenic summer day in Forest Park. In lieu of reading vows, Hardy and Natalie performed a handfasting ceremony—a Celtic tradition in which the couple’s hands are tied together to represent the binding of two lives—followed by an exchange of rings. The reception at the Forest Park Visitor Center then began with the couple’s first dance, followed by traditional Kurdish dances to honor Hardy’s culture and family.
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Photographer: Sarah Harvey Photo
Location: Forest Park Visitors Center
Groom’s suit: Jim’s Formal Wear
Bride’s dress: White Traditions Bridal
Flowers: Roses and Mint
Caterer: Catering St. Louis
Cake: The Cakery
Music: Complete Weddings & Events
Hair and Makeup: Savanah Summer
Invites: Etsy
