Nikki and Dustin’s Florida Engagement Session

When I first spoke to Nikki and Dustin, I knew that their love story was a special one. I also knew that their Florida engagement session and wedding day were going to be epic. Little did I know just how epic it would be!

Nikki and Dustin

This couple met at work five years ago. At Publix, Nikki was office staff while Dustin was a produce clerk. Fast forward to a few years later, Dustin proposed to Nikki at the island in Pigeon Forge island. They’re now in the process of planning their Bahia Mar wedding, working long hours, and settling into their place with their fur-baby.

Florida Engagement Session

As most of you know, I moved from Florida to Austin. Now, I use any excuse to go back for a visit (especially when I can sneak in a trip to Disney). And, lucky for me, in my line of work, I am able to continue to travel and photograph love and weddings.

Nikki and I brainstormed quite a bit when it came to choosing an engagement location. At first, they were thinking a ranch, field, and/or horse stables because they love horses.

In the end, we decided on the beach. Even though their venue has direct access to the beach, they are wanting to stay on the other side of the street on their actual wedding day (so as to not get sandy and/or lose too much partying time). So doing their Florida engagement session here presented the perfect opportunity for us to still take photos at the beach.

Plus, Nikki wanted to do some romantic and fun in-the-water photos, which I am always down for!

Nikki and Dustin's Florida engagement session.
Nikki and Dustin's Florida engagement session.
Dustin and Nikki hanging out on the rocks at the beach.
Nikki and Dustin's Florida engagement session.
Nikki and Dustin's Florida engagement session.
Dancing in the sand.
Perfectly manicured nails and a blingy ring!
Nikki and Dustin's Florida engagement session.
Nikki and Dustin's Florida engagement session included running into the ocean!
I can't wait for their Bahia Mar wedding!
Nikki and Dustin's Florida engagement session.
How cute are Dustin and Nikki?!
Love the golden hour when the sun hits the couple perfectly!
Nikki and Dustin's Florida engagement session.
Nikki and Dustin's Florida engagement session.
The beach is always a fun place to take engagement photos

My favorite photos are the series below when Dustin sweetly kisses Nikki before throwing her into the water!

Dustin throwing Nikki into the waves
Florida engagement session - destination wedding photographer
Nikki and Dustin's fun and romantic Florida engagement session.
Nikki and Dustin holding hands at the beach at their Florida engagement session.

I love using the natural surroundings of wherever a session takes place for a good macro ring shot. In this case, I am obsessed with the algae and wet rocks that were sitting by the water. With the low tide, I was able to utilize the area and texture for this picture (without the fear of losing the ring to the ocean):

Nikki's engagement ring at their Florida engagement session.

Congratulations, Nikki and Dustin! I absolutely cannot wait for your wedding day!!!

Kalea’s Senior Portrait Session

Kalea is graduating early so she can get a head start on her future! And to kick things off, she wanted a senior portrait session at Commons Ford Ranch in Austin, Texas.

This senior has spent a lot of her life moving around from school to school. When her family finally settled in Austin, she was ready to graduate and start a new chapter in her life. So she is doing just that!

Senior Portrait Session | Austin, Texas
Senior Portrait Session | Austin, Texas
Senior Portrait Session | Austin, Texas
Senior pictures at Commons Ford Ranch in Austin.
Senior pictures at Commons Ford Ranch in Austin.
Senior pictures at Commons Ford Ranch in Austin.
Senior pictures at Commons Ford Ranch in Austin.
Senior pictures at Commons Ford Ranch in Austin.
Senior pictures at Commons Ford Ranch in Austin.
Senior pictures at Commons Ford Ranch in Austin.
Senior pictures at Commons Ford Ranch in Austin.
Senior pictures at Commons Ford Ranch in Austin.
Senior pictures at Commons Ford Ranch in Austin.
Senior pictures at Commons Ford Ranch in Austin.
Senior pictures at Commons Ford Ranch in Austin.
Senior pictures at Commons Ford Ranch in Austin.
Senior pictures at Commons Ford Ranch in Austin.
Senior Portrait Session | Austin, Texas
Senior Portrait Session | Austin, Texas

Senior Portrait Session

I absolutely love senior portrait sessions! Not only is it an exciting time in the senior’s life, but it’s also just a fun session in general! Getting dressed up and celebrating this life stage and new milestone, before moving onto the what’s next in their life …

Plus, these sessions are perfect for the parents. It’s a way to memorialize their little boy or girl growing up and entering adulthood and independence. I mean, it’s because of the help and support from their parents that these seniors are ready!

Not to mention, you can use the photos to update photos around the house, to use on graduation announcements, and/or ‘thank you’ notes. Or, even better, to dedicate a page in their yearbook and fill it with ‘then and now’ photos like my parents did. Of course, my parents had to use the most embarrassing photos of me as a kid … 😳

When planning your senior portrait session, I recommend:

• Choosing a fun location, like a local park, an urban landscape, or even your home! Wherever your senior feels the most comfortable. Kalea was deciding between Austin murals or doing an open field. In the end, logistically, it made the most sense to use Commons Ford Ranch. She and her parents liked the idea of a field, tall grass, and neutral backdrops. The easy and free parking were extra perks!

• Pick at least two outfits. I recommend one casual look and one more formal one. This allows for versatility and variety!

• Use props! Whether it’s your cap and gown, a faux diploma, furbabies, bubbles, confetti, balloons, a chalkboard, etc. it’s always fun to have a little something extra to play with! Just keep in mind that depending on your location, you need to be aware of rules and environment. I always check out the venue’s website for what is and isn’t allowed on property. If I’m unsure, I’ll give them a call to confirm. The last thing you want is getting kicked out or having to pay a hefty fine!

• Lastly, know who to bring. If you are shy or uncomfortable around others, then it’s best if it’s just you and the photographer. If you prefer having a friend or a family member around, let them come along. But please keep it to two persons max. Any more than that can get distracting and chaotic!

Other than that, have FUN!!! Be yourself and celebrate all of your accomplishments and the exciting adventures that lie ahead!!

Kyra and Vincent’s Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding

This romantic and love-filled Dripping Springs backyard wedding is the wedding to beat! Yes, believe it or not, this is a family home, not a venue, with views to die for! It was also the most amazing celebration celebrating the love between two beautiful souls.

Meet the Couple

Kyra and Vincent met freshman year of high school on the very first day, in their very first class.

It took about a year and a couple of months before they started dating and were together until senior year.

That’s when these two took a break but quickly rekindled the relationship in their freshman year of college.

“Being a young couple, we went through our crazy times with our parents, and with what we were going to do with our lives. But reconnecting in college and helping each other through our dark spots, knowing we will always be there for one another no matter what is what makes us such a strong couple today.”

Although they have been together since high school, they “always find time to learn something new about each other.”

She Said “Yes!”

These two went through a lot to become engaged and did everything together, including picking out the ring.

And being the homebodies that they are, it was only perfect and appropriate that Vincent proposed in their living room. It is such a special story and moment that they get to share together.

Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding

After many years, Kyra and Vincent are ready to tie the knot at their Dripping Springs backyard wedding!

Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding | Austin Photographer
Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding | Austin Photographer
Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding | Austin Photographer

The bride got ready in the coolest airstream, located at the back of the property:

Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding | Austin Photographer
Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding | Austin Photographer

Not only was Kyra’s sister her matron of honor and best friend, but she was also the wedding planner (the beautiful lady pictured to the right of the bride)! The owner and lady behind Emerald Events, Haley helped to plan and execute this perfect wedding for her sister and did such an amazing job doing so. Plus, her daughter is just the cutest!!!

Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding | Austin Photographer
Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding | Austin Photographer

The ladies having a moment before the first look with Kyra.

Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding | Austin Photographer

Kyra and her sister couldn’t help but shed a happy tear. Meanwhile, the other ladies couldn’t get over how gorgeous the bride looked, and had huge smiles plastered on their faces.

Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding | Austin Photographer

Next up: the first look with the groomsmen …

And lastly, a first look with her daddy:

Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding | Austin Photographer
Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding | Austin Photographer

The Ceremony

Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding | Austin Photographer
Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding | Austin Photographer

I am in love with their four-legged groomsmen:

Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding | Austin Photographer

The couple chose not to do a pre-ceremony first look, so Vincent was shocked when his beautiful bride came out of the airstream. So shocked, in awe, and in love, causing him to shed a tear (or two).

Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding | Austin Photographer
Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding | Austin Photographer
Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding | Austin Photographer

Seriously, could this ceremony site and lighting be any more perfect?!?!

Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding | Austin Photographer
Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding | Austin Photographer
Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding | Austin Photographer
Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding | Austin Photographer
Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding | Austin Photographer
Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding | Austin Photographer
Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding | Austin Photographer
Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding | Austin Photographer

A first kiss as husband and wife, and it’s official! They did it – they are MARRIED!!!

Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding | Austin Photographer

A celebratory shot is in order:

Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding | Austin Photographer
Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding | Austin Photographer

Post-Ceremony Portraits

Because I want my couple and their family to be able to enjoy their day, I recommend putting together a list of no more than 15-20 posed shots for formal portraits. This is perfect for lighting (we don’t want dark or no-sun photos) and for photos of just the couple.

Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding | Austin Photographer

Poor Case …. not only was this furbaby not a fan of all the noise and people, but then then the flower girl was determined to love on him!

Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding | Austin Photographer
Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding | Austin Photographer
Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding | Austin Photographer

Can’t miss out on taking photos with their sweet baby boy:

Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding | Austin Photographer

The perk of having a Dripping Springs backyard wedding? The views, of course! Then add in Kyra and Vincent, it is absolutely amazing!

Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding | Austin Photographer
Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding | Austin Photographer
Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding | Austin Photographer
Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding | Austin Photographer
Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding | Austin Photographer
Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding | Austin Photographer
Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding | Austin Photographer
Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding | Austin Photographer

Wedding Reception

January weddings in Texas can be quite cold, which was definitely the case for this wedding. The ceremony was warm, but once the sun went down, we were definitely feeling the winter weather! Luckily, the couple came prepared! They had hand warmers for their guests, fire pits and electric heaters to stand next to, and warm food to fill everyone’s bellies with!

Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding | Austin Photographer

The new Mr. and Mrs. Roberts!

Kyra’s father gave the welcoming toast and blessing before dinner:

Leading to the couple’s first dance:

Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding | Austin Photographer

Parent dances:

How beautiful is this cake and doughnut stand?! All baked by the bride’s talented aunt. And all of it tasted as good as it looked!

Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding | Austin Photographer

Let the partying commence! The guests danced to a variety of live music, from classic rock to pop and country, thanks to Us and Her Band. Fun fact: Kyra’s mother used to sing with this band!

In fact, as a special surprise to the couple and the guests, Kyra’s mother had an outfit change and stepped up on stage to sing with the band!

And had each of their children partake in a little live karoake!

Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding | Austin Photographer

The end is here and what better way than to send off the couple with a bit of drama!

Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding | Austin Photographer
Dripping Springs Backyard Wedding | Austin Photographer

With a wave from their truck, off the newlyweds go!

Exiting their wedding in their truck!

Congratulations to these high school sweethearts! Thank you so much for trusting me to capture your love and sweet memories 💕💕💕💕💕💕💕

Wedding Dream Team

Bridal Boutique: David’s Bridal ♥ Wedding Dress: David’s Bridal ♥ Wedding Planner: Emerald Events ♥ Hair and Makeup Artist: Hair and Makeup with Nicole ♥ Wedding Venue: Private Residence ♥ Photographer: Sweet Memories Photography ♥ Catering: Via 313 ♥ Band: Us and Her Band ♥ Rentals: Peerless Events and Tents

Woodbine Mansion Bridal Portraits: Kirsten

Could these Woodbine Mansion bridal portraits be any more dreamy? Kirsten is absolutely stunning in her wedding dress and the venue was the most perfect choice to use!

Bridal Portraits

Bridal portraits are making a comeback! I remember, back in the day, brides would take photos in their wedding gown in a studio, with just a plain black or white backdrop.

Since moving to Austin, I’ve seen them come back in full force and I am so here for it! Especially because we’ve modernized the sessions. Brides are using their wedding venues or a venue they’ve been dreaming of as their bridal portrait locations, instead of the traditional studio look.

Why are they popular? Well, for many reasons:

  1. To make the most of your wedding gown and have an excuse to wear it more than once. We spend a lot of time finding the dress and then we spend a lot of money on it!
  2. In most cases (not in this one, which I’ll explain later), “they’re a dry-run for the big day … a reassuring run-through.” Brides often use this session to make sure their dress is exactly how they want it, and that their wedding day (trial) makeup and hair is on point.
  3. The wedding day itself can be stressful and chaotic. We normally spend a bit of time before the first look or ceremony for bridal portraits. But sometimes the bride can be stressed or running behind, and we have to rush through the bridal pictures. Because of this, we may not get all the poses, backdrops, and/or pictures in general that we would ideally love. Having your session prior, or even after the wedding day, can take that stress and anxiety away!

Woodbine Mansion Bridal Portraits

Kirsten’s bridal session took place post-wedding day. Married in July of 2021 at Springdale Station, she recalls the day being a whirlwind of amazing moments and events. And, although they took a ton of pictures as a married couple, she regrets that she didn’t have any taken of her just by herself. Plus, her gorgeous gown was just sitting in her closet, tempting her to put it on again!

We started discussing her session and brainstormed where to take her photos. When I mentioned Woodbine Mansion, she was all for it. In fact, that was the venue they originally wanted to get married at but couldn’t feasibly make it work.

The day of our Woodbine Mansion bridal portraits was perfect! We had the most amazing weather, the venue to ourselves, and just a fun time utilizing Woodbine Mansion and all of its grandeur. And doesn’t Kirsten look absolutely gorgeous?!

Bridal portraits
The bride in her beautiful wedding dress
Kirsten, my beautiful bride
The bride peeking out the window
Kirsten sitting on the couch, looking gorgeous in her gown
Woodbine Mansion Bridal Portraits - Austin Wedding Photographer
Bridal portraits at Woodbine Mansion
In the greenhouse room of Woodbine Mansion
Woodbine Mansion Bridal | Austin Wedding Photographer
The bride
Kirsten dancing in her wedding gown
Such a stunning bride
Woodbine Mansion Bridal | Austin Wedding Photographer
Her a-line gown fit the bride perfectly
Woodbine Mansion Bridal | Austin Wedding Photographer
On the staircase at Woodbine Mansion
Woodbine Mansion Bridal | Austin Wedding Photographer
Kirsten, the Austin bride
Her green earrings added a beautiful pop of color
Every room at Woodbine Mansion is absolutely beautiful
The bride
Details of the bride's hair and the back of her gown
Woodbine Mansion Bridal | Austin Wedding Photographer
Posing in front of Woodbine Mansion
Love Kirsten's train and veil.
A closeup of the details of Kirsten's wedding dress and her wedding rings.
Woodbine Mansion Bridal | Austin Wedding Photographer
There is no bad spot at Woodbine Mansion to take photos
Woodbine Mansion in Roundrock, Texas is a historical venue.
The bride standing by the beautiful chandelier, mirror, and fireplace.
Woodbine Mansion Bridal | Austin Wedding Photographer
Fixing her hair before we take more photos.
Kirsten's Woodbine Mansion bridal portrait session was dreamy
Kirsten looks magnificent in her wedding dress
Woodbine Mansion Bridal | Austin Wedding Photographer
The bride

Interested in having your bridal portraits taken? Reach out and let’s talk about when, where, and how to prep!!

Chapel Dulcinea Elopement: Amber and Wade

With just their closest family and friends, Amber and Wade celebrated their love by saying “I do” at their Chapel Dulcinea elopement.

Amber and Wade’s Love Story

Having met online, these two are passionately in love. Their “chemistry is unparalleled with anything we have experienced before.”

Amber says, “He treats me like a princess, opening every door, asking after my every need, and making me feel treasured every day.”

Wade says, “She treats me like a king, and gives me comfort every minute of every day. She showers me with affection and I feel so deeply connected to her.”

They are always on the same page and finish each other’s sentences, anticipating what the other is thinking. It is the kind of love that they could only dream of, and it’s the kind of love that they found in each other.

When it came to proposing, Wade asked Amber’s children for permission and then proposed in front of the fireplace in the house that would become their home.

Elopement

Because this is a second marriage for both Amber and Wade, they wanted an intimate wedding. One that celebrates finding true love and their forever partner.

“Being older and reflecting on marriages that didn’t work, we both have done the hard work of self-improvement to be our best selves and better partners than we were before.”

In attendance to their intimate wedding were their children, immediate family, and closest friends. A total of 19 people. And the most fun group!

Forever Vows

The day finally arrived. It also just so happened to be the windiest day in Austin, with over 40 mph winds and a cold front coming through. But that wasn’t going to stop these soulmates from saying their vows and being married.

Luckily, Chapel Dulcinea, although placed on top of a hill, has walls to help break the wind and cold. With cardigans, jackets, and red noses, we all got to witness Wade and Amber pledge their love and lives to one another. It was a beautiful day!

Getting ready before the wedding ceremony
The bride about to walk down the aisle on her elopement day.
All of the couples' kids walked down the wedding aisle as flower girls
The groom awaiting his bride at the end of the aisle
The bride and her dad
Meeting her groom at the ceremony site
Outdoor wedding ceremony venue in Austin, Texas
Chapel Dulcinea elopement in Austin, Texas
Saying their vows
The bride shedding a happy tear during their wedding vows
Exchanging their wedding rings
Placing the ring upon her husband's finger
Their first kiss as husband and wife
They did it! They're officially married!
Down the aisle they go
Happily married!
Hugs for all after they said "I do"

After the bride and groom walked down the aisle, all of the guests were given rose petals to throw as they exited Chapel Dulcinea. I love this! It made for the most amazing photo opportunity; plus, it was interactive and made the end of the ceremony even more fun!

All of the guests walked the recessional and threw rose petals

Time to ring the bell and let the world know that Amber and Wade are married!!!!

Ringing the bell at Chapel Dulcinea
Family photos
The bride with her sisters and the couple with their children.
The groom with his best man
Bride and groom portraits
Chapel Dulcinea in Austin, Texas
Chapel Dulcinea overlooking hill country in Austin, TX
Sweet moments between the bride and groom
Pure love at its finest

We ended our time at Chapel Dulcinea and as we were walking to our next destination, the couple was greeted with cheers:

The bride and groom are greeted by all of their guests

The couple took a break from photos to tend to their children. After wrapping them up in blankets and serving them hot chocolate, we took some family photos …

The bride and her youngest daughter.

And candid shots as the family brought out their cell phone for selfies:

The sisters taking a selfie.

Amber and Wade’s family and friends left to go back to where they were staying, to get warm and wait for the couple to meet up with them to celebrate the rest of the evening.

Meanwhile, we took advantage of the beautiful lighting and scenery:

More bride and groom portraits
Chapel Dulcinea elopement | Austin wedding photographer
That sun made for such beautiful lighting!
We were loving the lighting and the bells at Chapel Dulcinea.
Bride and groom photos
After many years and failed relationships, these two found each other.
The happy couple on their wedding day
Chapel Dulcinea in Austin, TX

It was such a pleasure being a part of this couple’s love story. To Amber and Wade: Congratulations on finding your person and wishing you the most amazing life together!