I'm thrilled you are here! My wish for this blog is to highlight all the beautiful families who I am asked to serve and to share helpful tips along the way!
WELCOME, I'M LAURA!
Let’s face it: taking little ones out to eat during fall in St. Louis can be quite the adventure. They’re full of energy, ready to explore everything in sight, while you’re just dreaming of enjoying a meal, next to a crackling fire you didn’t have to cook. You’re on the hunt for kid-friendly patios, with great food, in St. Louis, and we’ve got your back!
As seasoned kid wranglers and life long St. Louis locals, we’ve learned a thing or two about managing those lively kiddos and getting good eats around town. Here are some of our favorite spots that make dining out with kids not just manageable, but fun!
Hendel’s Restaurant | 599 Rue St. Denis Street, Florissant, MO 63031
Hendel’s is a historic restaurant in Old Town Florissant, Missouri, originally established as a grocery and general store in 1873. Purchased by the Hendel family in 1915, it operated as a specialty grocery and butcher shop for nearly eight decades. In 1994, the building was transformed into a restaurant, blending historic charm with modern cuisine. With expansions over the years, including a front porch and bar room, and patio. Hendel’s offers a memorable dining experience, known for its cozy ambiance, live music, and seasonal events.
For more details, visit their history page & menu.
The Creve Coeur Lake House | 2160 Creve Coeur Mill Rd. St. Louis, Missouri 63146
The Creve Coeur Lake House is dedicated to providing an exceptionally relaxing experience. The patio, offering picturesque views of Mallard Lake, the surrounding woods, and an exercise trail, allows diners to connect with nature or enjoy people-watching. The restaurant ensures a leisurely experience, never rushing guests, even during peak times, inviting them to relax and savor their visit.
9 Mile Garden | 9375 Gravois Rd, Affton, MO 63123
9 Mile Garden in Affton is Missouri’s first food truck garden, offering a unique outdoor dining experience. Located just outside St. Louis, this vibrant venue features a rotating selection of the area’s best food trucks, providing diverse culinary options. The garden also includes a large outdoor seating area, a family-friendly atmosphere, and frequent entertainment, such as live music, movie nights, and community events. It’s a place where people can gather, relax, and enjoy great food in a lively and welcoming environment.
For more details, visit the about page.
The Boat House Forest Park | 6101 Government Dr., St. Louis, MO 63110
For a dining experience like no other, The Boathouse at Forest Park is ready to welcome you. Nestled along the serene lake waters, this iconic St. Louis restaurant has recently enhanced its offerings to ensure a memorable visit for all. With seating for 80 inside and 100 outdoors, guests can enjoy the scenic views while indulging in the restaurant’s signature fare. Recent renovations, including a complete kitchen overhaul and updates to the lakeside bar, promise an elevated experience in one of the city’s most cherished locations.
Tap here for the menu and hours.
Whether you’re in the mood for a casual outdoor meal or a relaxing lakeside escape, these St. Louis patio dining destinations offer something truly special. Each venue has been thoughtfully designed to provide an inviting atmosphere where you can unwind, savor delicious food, and enjoy the company of friends and family. From historic charm to scenic views, these restaurants are perfect for creating lasting memories. Come and experience the warmth and hospitality that make these spots beloved by locals and visitors alike.
Welcome! I’m so glad you’re here exploring my work. Let me tell you a bit about the Laura Stansberry Photography experience. We offer a full, size-inclusive wardrobe with over 100 elegant dresses and robes for moms (sizes 0-26), plus plenty of choices for babies, children, and men. Your session includes professional hair and makeup, making everything effortless—you just show up and snuggle your family.
If you’re searching for a luxury, stress-free photography experience in St. Louis, I’d love to connect! With five years of specializing in maternity, newborn, and family photography, I’m currently booking sessions through late 2024 and into 2025. Let’s create something beautiful for your family!
Curious about what a full session looks like? I’m happy to share complete galleries so you can see exactly what to expect. It’s important to me that you get a real feel for the kind of timeless portraits we can create together. If you’re interested in learning more about a custom session, you can click here to dive into the experience and start planning your own!
Sign up for our bi-weekly newsletter featuring news, events, celebrations, life, encouragement, and so much more.
JENNIFER CARFORA DESIGNS