I’m so excited to share with you the story of Meredith and Chris’s wedding, which unfolded in the heart of downtown Cincinnati at the magnificent St. Xavier Church, followed by a lavish reception in the European-inspired gardens of Ault Park. As a Cincinnati wedding photographer and film enthusiast, I had the privilege of capturing their special day. Join me as we delve into this remarkable celebration and discover the magic of an Ault Park wedding.

Meredith and Chris

Their journey began in 2012 at the University of Dayton, where their paths intertwined during the second semester of their senior year. Initially, they kept things light and casual, savoring the joys of young love. But as time passed, their connection deepened, and they decided to embark on a committed long-distance relationship after graduation.

From Distances Traveled to Cincinnati: A Place to Call Home

The couple’s love story continued to blossom despite the miles that separated them. After a year of conquering the challenges of distance, Meredith and Chris found themselves reunited in the vibrant city of Boston. Together, they embraced new adventures, forged lifelong memories, and solidified their bond. Finally, in October 2015, they decided to make Cincinnati their forever home—a city that holds a special place in their hearts.

Meredith and Chris’s love is complemented by their shared passions and their dog named Simon. In fact, they often walk Simon around the grounds of Ault Park in Cincinnati, which is one reason it was important to them to have their wedding reception there.

The Captivating Proposal: A Moment of Surprise and Elegance

In late June 2021, Chris orchestrated a proposal filled with delightful surprises. Boca, an exquisite restaurant known for its French cuisine served as the backdrop for this magical moment. As Meredith arrived, she expected a typical date night, completely unaware of the joy that awaited her. 

To her astonishment, they were seated at the coveted chef’s table, where they savored dinner, reminiscing about their journey and relishing the milestones they had conquered together. When dessert menus were presented, an unexpected turn of events took place. Suddenly, a bouquet of roses appeared, capturing Meredith’s attention. With the room abuzz with anticipation, Chris gracefully dropped to one knee, professing his love and asking for her hand in marriage.

As I reflect on Meredith and Chris’s breathtaking wedding day, I am reminded of the power of love to transcend distance, create unforgettable memories, and find solace in the beauty of shared experiences. Their journey, from their first encounter at the University of Dayton to the elegance of St. Xavier Church and the enchantment of Ault Park, speaks volumes about their unwavering commitment that surrounds them.

Setting the Scene: Ault Park, Where Dreams Come True

Nestled in the heart of Cincinnati, Ault Park stands as a testament to timeless beauty and European-inspired grandeur. Its lush gardens and picturesque vistas provide the perfect backdrop for an enchanting wedding celebration. As a Cincinnati wedding photographer, I’ve seen many beautiful wedding ceremony and reception spots, and Ault Park always tops the list of my favorite Cincinnati Wedding Venues. I couldn’t have been more thrilled to capture the precious moments of Meredith and Chris’s journey.

I would be missing a huge opportunity if I didn’t shout out the talented Wedding Planner, Leda Anderson of Events Held Dear for her part in making this wedding come to life. A seamless wedding requires the expertise of a skilled planner, and Meredith and Chris were fortunate to have the remarkable Events Held Dear team by their side. Leda’s impeccable attention to detail, creative vision, and dedication to her craft ensured that every aspect of their celebration was flawlessly executed. Her passion for curating unforgettable experiences shines through in every event she designs.

Meredith and Chris, may your love continue to bloom.

Vendor Credits:

• Ceremony Venue – St. Francis Xavier Church 
• Reception Venue –Ault Park Pavilion
• Planner – Events Held Dear – Leda Anderson
• Hair Stylist – Dawn Robling
• Makeup Stylist – Kate Murray
• Caterer – Funky’s Catering
• Florist – The Budding Florist
• Baker – The Bonbonerie
• Band – The Naked Karate Girls
• Video – Old North Film
• Dress Designer – Sarah Seven
• Tuxes -The Black Tux
• Invitations – Shasta Bell Caligraphy
• Rentals – Prime Time
• Transportation –Jimmy’s Limosine
• Draping – Fitz the Occassion