The Preserve at Canyon Lake Wedding: Vickky and Jacob

Okay, but in all seriousness, is there anything more beautiful than a Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding? Well, add in Vickky, Jacob, and their furbabies, then it’s utter perfection!

Meet the Couple

This God-fearing, ambitious couple are the best of friends. They do everything together, but especially love to binge on Netflix and try new food.

After meeting in church through a mutual friend, they dated for seven years. Although it wasn’t all smooth sailing at first …

The first time Vickky hung out with Jacob, she met up with him and their mutual friend. When she saw him get out of the car, Vickky got “heart eyes” but played it cool.

Jacob took a look at her and didn’t say a word. Her “heart eyes” quickly disappeared.

They sat down and started looking at the menu.

Vickky says:

“I could feel Jacob staring at me. Of course, me being me, I asked him if there was something on my face.”

He proceeded to ask if Vickky was wearing makeup.

“Offended, I responded, ‘No. Do I look ugly?’

He kept questioning me and accused me of lying. So finally, I raise my voice and said, ‘Dude, drop it. I am not wearing any makeup and I do not plan on wearing any either!’

Jacob quickly responded in the sweetest voice:

‘I didn’t mean to hurt your feelings. I just have never seen such natural beauty.’

From that point on, Jacob has had me hooked.”

Engaged

Seven years later, knowing they couldn’t envision a life without each other, it was time.

Jacob took Vickky to an escape house. When she unlocked the door, she came across a sign that said “turn around.” When she did, there was Jacob on his knee, holding a ring in his hand.

Some Time Later …

They’re ready to say their vows to each other at their Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding. With dusty and steel blues, silver, and white, Vickky and Jacob’s winter wonderful wedding was beautiful. They incorporated a ton of personal details, from their personalized welcome mirror to a homemade dessert bar. You can tell that these two really pay attention to detail!

Getting Ready

The Preserve at Canyon Lake provides the most gorgeous places to get ready (not to mention to hold a ceremony, reception, and all events in between). The bridal suite is awe-inspiring with all of its big windows and natural light. Plus, it’s HUGE! Which worked in Vickky’s favor as she had a large bridal party and family getting ready with her.

Wedding Details
Wedding Rings
Bridesmaid dresses
The bride's Jasmine gown on a custom hanger.
The ladies getting ready before the Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding.
The bride getting ready
All the ladies getting ready in the bridal suite.
The bride's hair style.
Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer
Fixing their hair and jewelry before the wedding ceremony.

Vickky slipped into a separate room to put her wedding dress on. When she reappeared and did a first look with her bride tribe, all of the ladies were crying happy tears. How could you not when a bride is this stunning?

The bride's first look with her girls.
Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer
Buttoning up the bridal gown.
Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer
Bridal portraits.
Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer
The gorgeous bride.
Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer
Vickky the bride.
Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer

While the ladies were in the upstairs room, the groom was preparing himself as well:

Jacob, the groom.

Who else is totally obsessed with his textured suit?

His best man helping the groom get dressed.
Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer

Zeke, Jacob’s best man and best friend, happily stood by the groom’s side.

A groom and his dog.
Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer
Zeke, the husky and best man.
Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer

Jacob’s first look with his mother:

Jacob and his first look with his mom.

There’s nothing quite like the bond between a mother and a son …

Well, other than Vickky and her father’s bond, of course:

The bride's first look with her father.
Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer

Bring on the tears…

Cue the tears after the bride sees her dad for the first time.

We had some time prior to the wedding ceremony, so we were able to get some groups together for photos.

Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer
bridal party
Austin, Texas wedding photographer
The bride tribe.
The groom and his groomsmen.
Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer
The groom with his family.

It’s Time for the “I Do’s”

With everyone at their seats, the bride and groom are ready to walk down the aisle. But not before some prayers for the happy couple …

Prayers before the wedding ceremony.
Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer

Vickky and Jacob wanted a moment alone to pray together. The trick was to make sure the groom couldn’t see his bride, as they didn’t want to do a first look …

The bride meeting her groom for their personal prayers.
Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer
Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer

The ceremony begins …

wedding ceremony details.
the wedding ceremony site.
Wedding details.
Some of the wedding guests.
Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer
Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer
Zeke, the husky, and the ring bearer.
Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer
Zeke looking lovingly at his dad.
Flower girls walking down the aisle with Susie.
The bride and her father make the grand entrance.
The groom crying after seeing his bride for the first time.
Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer
Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer
The preserve at canyon lake indoor ceremony site.

Not only did daddy get to give his daughter away, but he also is a pastor and was able to marry the two.

Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer
Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer
Saying their vows.
The wedding ceremony.
Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer
Saying their personal vows.

With the exchanging of rings …

Exchanging of rings.
Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer

A secret handshake …

Their secret handshake.

And a dramatic first kiss …

First kiss as husband and wife.

It’s official: they’re husband and wife!

The wedding recessional
Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer

We had a quick photo session with the newlyweds, Zeke, and Susie before the two head off to doggy daycare.

portraits with their dogs.
Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer
Preserve at Canyon Lake Wedding Post-Ceremony Photos
Family pictures.
Formal family portraits.
Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer
Bride and Groom Portraits

The Preserve at Canyon Lake does not lack in scenery or backdrops. Whether you have your Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding indoors, outdoors, or both, it’s breathtaking!

Vickky and Jacob’s special day took place in December, and we were blessed with beautiful weather and fall colors. But this venue is stunning all year round!

Pictures of the bride and groom.
Beautiful scenery at the preserve at canyon lake.
Austin bride and groom

These two really are quite picture-perfect!

bride and groom portraits

And their love for one another just radiates!

Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer
Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer
Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer
Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer
Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer
Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer
Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer
Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer
Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer
Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer
Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer
Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer
Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer
Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer
Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer
Vickky and Jacob
Exploring the grounds of the Austin wedding venue.
Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer
Austin bride and groom
Austin wedding venue
San Antonio wedding venue | San Antonio photographer

Preserve at Canyon Lake Wedding Reception

San Antonio wedding venue | San Antonio photographer
San Antonio wedding venue | San Antonio photographer
Wedding details
Homemade desserts
Wedding details
San Antonio wedding venue | San Antonio photographer

The couple’s grand entrance was definitely grand with this beautiful staircase!!!

San Antonio wedding venue | San Antonio photographer
San Antonio wedding venue | San Antonio photographer
San Antonio wedding venue | San Antonio photographer
San Antonio wedding venue | San Antonio photographer

Not-your-traditional-wedding entrance: Vickky and Jacob chose to have their wedding party introduced through a dance-off.

San Antonio wedding venue | San Antonio photographer

First, the groomsmen:

San Antonio wedding venue | San Antonio photographer

Then the bridesmaids:

Wedding reception | San Antonio wedding venue

The couple asked their guests to judge through applause.

Wedding reception | San Antonio wedding venue
Wedding reception | San Antonio wedding venue

However, it was a tie!! How do you break a tie, you may ask? Well, with a little game of Rock Paper Scissors!

Wedding reception | San Antonio wedding venue

And, if you can’t tell by the picture below:

Wedding reception | San Antonio wedding venue

The boys won!

Now it’s time to eat and let the festivities begin.

Wedding reception | San Antonio wedding venue

Vickky and Jacob’s sweet first dance:

Wedding reception | San Antonio wedding venue
Wedding reception | San Antonio wedding venue
Special dances at the preserve at canyon lake

Followed by the daddy-daughter dance:

Special dances at the preserve at canyon lake
Special dances at the preserve at canyon lake

The mother-son dance:

Special dances at the preserve at canyon lake
Special dances at the preserve at canyon lake

What’s a wedding without cake?! And with the cutest cake topper at that! I love that their dogs, Zeke and Susie, were not just incorporated into the ceremony, but also in their parents’ wedding cake! Not to mention, Vickky and Jacob tied in their blue and silver winter-themed wedding into the cake design, as well.

Wedding Cake
Cutting the cake
A little cake smash.
Loving kisses.

Cheers to the Happy Couple

Toasts at Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer
Toasts at Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer
Toasts at Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer

Dancing, Dancing, Oh, and More Dancing!

This group love to dance! So may the dancing commence!

Reception time with lots of dancing!

Interrupted by a quick little tradition called the bouquet toss:

Bouquet toss
Catching the bouquet

And the garter toss:

Garter retrieving
Garter time
Garter toss

Let us resume the dance portion of the night:

Reception time with lots of dancing!
Reception time with lots of dancing!
Reception time with lots of dancing!
Reception time with lots of dancing!
Reception time with lots of dancing!
Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer
Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer
Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding | Austin Texas Photographer

Sparkler Exit

What’s a Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding without a beautiful and dramatic grand exit? Cue the sparklers!

Sparkler exit at the Preserve at Canyon Lake
Sparkler exit at the Preserve at Canyon Lake
Sparkler exit at the Preserve at Canyon Lake
Sparkler exit at the Preserve at Canyon Lake
Sparkler exit at the Preserve at Canyon Lake

After the sparkler exit, Vickky ran back inside for a quick outfit change. With sweats and a jean jacket, this bride was ready to dance the rest of the night away!

 Preserve at Canyon Lake reception

I am so honored to have been a part of Vickky and Jacob’s special day! Congrats to the newlyweds and I can’t wait to see all that life blesses you with!

Bridal Boutique: Lace and Grace ♥ Wedding Gown: Jasmine’s Bridal ♥ Bridesmaid Dresses: Azazie ♥ Hair: Gabriella ♥ Makeup: Makeup by Justin ♥ Wedding Coordinator: Melissa ♥ Wedding Venue: Preserve at Canyon Lake ♥ Wedding Photographer (moi): Sweet Memories Photography ♥ Florals: De Vinnie’s Paradise ♥ Wedding Cake: Jr’s Sweet Temptations ♥ DJ: DJ Doise ♥ Videographer: A4 Films

Zilker Botanical Garden Engagement: Susan and Chris

This Zilker Botanical Garden engagement session has me like 😍! Susan and Chris love nature, color, and the outdoors so the botanical garden was the perfect location for them.

Susan and Chris

“We were both ready to be done with online dating. But we decided to give it one more shot and here we are. Thanks to an online dating app for helping us find each other!

We knew our relationship was for the long run, the more we talked to one another and spent time together. It went from zero to sixty!

Having met at the end of January 2021, became exclusive in March 2021, and got engaged by July 2021.”

As a couple, they enjoy doing outdoor activities & water activities. They also love traveling and exploring new places together. In fact, one of the first trips they made together was to Costa Rica. So I made sure to pick Susan’s brain, since Jason and I were going to Costa Rica only a month later!

Zilker Botanical Garden Engagement

Zilker Botanical Garden is located in the heart of downtown Austin. And this park provides a plethora backdrops from waterfalls, bridges, gardens, and ponds. I can honestly say that I could easily spend hours here! And not one photo would look anything like the other.

For their engagement session, Susan and Chris “want to look back and think that was a fun day filled with lots of laughter and love.” We achieved just that:

Zilker Botanical Garden Engagement

Inside the Green Garden:

These love birds enjoying time in the green garden.

How stunning are the views of downtown Austin?

Love the skyline from Zilker Botanical Garden.

Isn’t this just the cutest little bridge:

Zilker Botanical Garden Engagement | Austin Photographer
I love finding all the nooks that Zilker botanical garden has to offer.
Zilker Botanical Garden Engagement | Austin Photographer

After we left the Japanese garden, we made our way to the pavilion:

Zilker Botanical Garden Engagement | Austin Photographer
Zilker Botanical Garden Engagement | Austin Photographer

Susan absolutely loves roses so we spent a considerable amount of time here at the rose garden:

Susan's favorite flower is the rose.
Enjoying a stroll in the rose garden.
Zilker Botanical Garden Engagement | Austin Photographer
Susan and Chris in the rose garden.

Making our way past the rose garden, we came across the prehistoric garden with its iconic waterfall:

Zilker Botanical Garden Engagement | Austin Photographer
Playing in the prehistoric garden.
The colors in the garden are so vibrant!

The Butterfly Trail:

Zilker Botanical Garden Engagement | Austin Photographer
Zilker Botanical Garden Engagement | Austin Photographer

Leading to the Hummingbird Garden:

The newly engaged couple enjoying their time in the Hummingbird garden.
Zilker Botanical Garden Engagement | Austin Photographer

And we ended with a bit of play-fighting in the Oak Grove before their outfit change:

The engaged couple play fighting.
Love this tree as a backdrop!
Zilker Botanical Garden Engagement | Austin Photographer
Zilker Botanical Garden Engagement | Austin Photographer

Changing outfits, we had a totally different look and decided to keep wandering through Zilker Botanical Garden:

An outfit change for the two.
Susan and Chris posing for the camera.
Zilker Botanical Garden Engagement | Austin Photographer
Zilker Botanical Garden Engagement | Austin Photographer

Susan wanted to recreate the magical moment when Chris proposed:

Zilker Botanical Garden Engagement | Austin Photographer
Reliving their proposal moment.

I love when my couples are playful and have a fun time together. That’s what engagement sessions are all about: treating it like a date and spending quality time together!

By the keyhole in the gardens.
They took me seriously when I told them to run!
Zilker Botanical Garden Engagement | Austin Photographer

One of my favorite spots is the Koi Pond. Not only are the koi fascinating to watch, but there’s something so serene and relaxing about the scenery ….

Zilker Botanical Garden Engagement | Austin Photographer
Loving each other by the koi pond.

Susan took a special interest in the koi:

Playing with the koi fish in the pond.

This pair took the stone path to one of my favorite spots …

Walking to their next location.

The waterfall in the Japanese garden!

Zilker Botanical Garden Engagement | Austin Photographer

One of Susan’s main requests was to lift Chris, so of course we made it happen!

Susan's photo request was to lift Chris while she was wearing heels.
Zilker Botanical Garden Engagement in Austin, Texas.
Chris lifting Susan
Zilker Botanical Garden Engagement | Austin Photographer

Can I just take a moment to appreciate her heels! I am IN LOVE!

Zilker Botanical Garden Engagement | Austin Photographer
Dancing at Zilker Botanical Garden Engagement

While these two finally got to rest after our Zilker Botanical Garden engagement session, I borrowed her engagement ring for a little photoshoot. As gorgeous as this ring is, it deserves to have its own little moment!

Engagement ring at Zilker Botanical Garden Engagement

Engaged?

Reach out! I’d love to talk to you about celebrating together, whether it’s an engagement session and/or your wedding!

Taquero Mucho Wedding: Danielle and Morgan

There is nothing more fun or personal than a unique Taquero Mucho wedding consisting of a blue bridal gown, taco socks, tequila shots, and all things Instagrammable! And that’s exactly the kind of wedding Danielle and Morgan wanted.

About the Couple

As told by the couple:

“Even our first date wasn’t ‘typical.’ It involved a socially distanced walk with roadies (one major benefit of Covid). This followed by me not letting Morgan into my apartment, because he might spread gems.

We found an instant connection. From career aspirations and life goals to how similar our personalities are. It makes it really hard to be mad at someone who has the same quirks as you!

Morgan and I have been through insane work schedules, a “long distance” relationship, buying and renovating a home together. And now are looking forward to just being in the moment.

The idea of getting married in a taco shop started off as a joke. However, we realized that is exactly the laid back, non-traditional vibe we wanted to celebrate our life together.”

Taquero Mucho Wedding

Living in California, Danielle and Morgan wanted a destination wedding. Somewhere that was also easily accessible for their family and friends to travel during Covid-19 times.

One where all of their family and friends could truly enjoy not only the celebration, but the area, as well. And what better location than Austin, Texas at a venue that embraces all things weird? Not to mention TACOS!

Danielle first spotted Taquero Mucho on Instagram and instantly fell in love. The perfect venue to marry the love of her life. Because Morgan is a HUGE taco lover, he was onboard!

Getting Ready on the Wedding Day

Danielle and Morgan got ready at the amazing Austin Proper.

“Situated in Downtown’s Second Street District, Austin Proper Hotel is the newest luxury lifestyle hotel in Austin, just steps from Lady Bird Lake, the legendary Austin City Limits music venue and nearby boutiques.” It’s also the most perfect place for guests to stay and an even more perfect place for the ladies to get ready!

Wedding rings.
Bride getting ready at the Austin Proper Hotel.
Bride having her makeup done.
The Claire Pettibone wedding dress for the Taquero Mucho wedding.
The bride's blue wedding gown.
Bridesmaids getting the dress ready for the bride.
The girls celebrating before the Taquero Mucho wedding.
The bride got each of her bridesmaid's matching robes.
The groom's mother loaning her pearls to the bride.
The bride putting on her jewelry before the Taquero Mucho wedding.

As a little wedding gift for the couple, I got them matching pairs of taco socks. You can imagine my surprise and happiness when the bride pulled them out to get married in!

The bride wore taco socks to go with the theme of her Taquero Mucho wedding.
Putting on her wedding dress.
The moms helping her put on her gown.
A special moment between bride and her mom.
The bridal gown's train.
Sisterly love before the Taquero Mucho wedding.
The bride.
Putting on her shoes.
Relaxing before the first look.
The bridesmaids wearing floral gowns and surrounding the bride.

How gorgeous is Danielle in her blue Claire Pettibone gown? I love when brides incorporate a little (or a lot) of color!!

The beautiful bride.
Bridal portraits.

The First Look

Goldie’s is an intimate cocktail bar on the ground floor of the Austin Proper Hotel. It serves as an elegant setting for a posh celebration” like Danielle and Morgan’s first look.

“The focal point of the room is a marble sunken bar, surrounded by a plush array of tweed and velvet seating.” And the perfect backdrop for Morgan to see Danielle for the first time.

First look at Goldie's inside Austin Proper Hotel.
The bride and groom's first look.
First looks at the Austin Proper Hotel.
The sweet bride and groom before their Taquero Mucho wedding.

They took a moment to exchange gifts:

Exchanging wedding day gifts.
A few couples' portraits at the Austin Proper Hotel.

Love that they both sported the taco socks I got them as a little “congratulations” gift!! Not to mention, Danielle rocking her customized pink glitter sneakers … way to tie in stylish, comfort, and her pink Taquero Mucho wedding theme!

Matching taco socks to go with the theme of their wedding.

Taquero Mucho Wedding

With Eclipse Event Co. by their side, Danielle and Morgan brought their tacos, shots, and pink theme to life, right down to the customized anti-bitch juice pouch labels (aka strawberry frozen rose):

Taquero Mucho wedding details.
Inside the Taquero Mucho wedding.

The pouches were the welcoming drinks as their guests arrived onsite:

Guests receiving their welcome drinks.
Taquero Mucho's signature drinks.

Gorgeous arrangements by the talented Moon Flora Studio enhanced Taquero Mucho’s outdoor area:

Details of the Taquero Mucho wedding's ceremony site.

And so the Celebration Begins…

The wedding ceremony about the begin.
Walking down the aisle at Taquero Mucho.

Dad high-fiving his little girl:

High-fiving her dad after the groom greets her down the aisle.

Right before the unplugged ceremony began, the couple gave their guests an opportunity to take photos. And then, all phones were put away.

Right before the unplugged ceremony.
Wedding ceremony.
Taquero Mucho wedding ceremony.
Bride and groom exchanging rings.
Taquero Mucho wedding vows.

Being Jewish, they wanted to incorporate the breaking of the glass.

“Couples include this tradition in their wedding ceremony as it symbolizes the absolute finality of the marital covenant.

Just as the broken pieces of glass can never be put back together and returned to its former state, so the covenant of marriage irrevocably binds the new husband and wife in their new state of marriage.”

Breaking of the glass at the end of their wedding ceremony.
They're officially husband and wife!
Walking down the aisle after saying their "I do's"

And in pure Morgan and Danielle fashion, they took a celebratory shot after walking down the aisle. #BestPostCeremonyTraditionEver

Post-ceremony shot at Taquero Mucho in Austin, Texas.

Followed by family photos:

Family photos.

And then couples’ portraits:

About to take their couples' portraits.

I mean, how beautiful is this couple?!

The bride and groom at Taquero Mucho.
Florals by the talented Moon Flora Studio.
Loving this backdrop at Taquero Mucho.

We couldn’t resist grabbing some photos inside the iconic photobooth:

Taquero Mucho wedding photos.
Bride and groom inside the telephone box.
The happy bride and groom at their Taquero Mucho wedding.

The cutest photos ever, utilizing Taquero Mucho‘s unique and fun indoor area. I am obsessed with the shades-of-pink floral wall, complemented by the palm frond wallpaper!

Taquero Mucho wedding photos.
The bride and groom.
The bride and groom inside Taquero Mucho.
The newly weds.

The Reception

After their guests had some time to take photo opportunities, sign their guest sign-in linen, and grab their seats, it was time for a group shot and dinner time!

The guests at the wedding reception.

Followed by toasts (with the most epic disco ball backdrop):

Cheers to the bride and groom!
The best man giving his toast.
The bride's sister giving her toast.
More toasts for the newly weds at their Taquero Mucho wedding.
More toasts for the newly weds at their Taquero Mucho wedding.
More toasts for the newly weds at their Taquero Mucho wedding.

And their first dance as a married couple, dancing to Tennessee Whiskey:

I’ve looked for love in all the same old places
Found the bottom of the bottles always dry
But when you poured out your heart I didn’t waste it
‘Cause there’s nothing like your love to get me high

You’re as smooth
As Tennessee whiskey
You’re as sweet
As strawberry wine
You’re as warm
As a glass of brandy
And honey, I stay stoned on your love
All the time

The couple's first dance to Tennessee Whiskey at Taquero Mucho in Austin, Texas.
The couple's first dance to Tennessee Whiskey at Taquero Mucho in Austin, Texas.

The traditional Hora:

Dancing the hora.
Dancing the hora.

A good party with Taquero Mucho‘s signature drinks, awesome Dj-ing by Cruz Collective, lots of shots, and fun dancing:

Reception at their Taquero Mucho wedding in Austin, Texas.
Reception at their Taquero Mucho wedding in Austin, Texas.

Instead of cake, Danielle and Morgan opted for churros. They had a choice of Dulce de Leche and cherry bourbon, or both! (I’m not going to lie, I opted for both and I am not ashamed to admit it. They were both equally delicious!)

Eating their churros which they opted to do instead of cake.
Reception at their Taquero Mucho wedding in Austin, Texas.
Reception at their Taquero Mucho wedding in Austin, Texas.

Group shots before the big finale:

Reception at their Taquero Mucho wedding in Austin, Texas.
Reception at their Taquero Mucho wedding in Austin, Texas.
Reception at their Taquero Mucho wedding in Austin, Texas.

The Send-Off

The bride and groom's eucalyptus send-off.
The bride and groom's eucalyptus send-off.

The happy couple jumped into the pedicab and left to head back to the Austin Proper Hotel:

The bride and groom head to the Austin Proper Hotel in their pedicab.
The bride and groom head to the Austin Proper Hotel in their pedicab.
The bride and groom head to the Austin Proper Hotel in their pedicab.
The bride and groom head to the Austin Proper Hotel in their pedicab.

Best wishes to the most fun couple ever on their marriage and adventures through life!

Bridal Boutique: Claire Pettibone ♥ Hair and Makeup: Harsha Lani Makeup and Hair ♥ Wedding Planner: Eclipse Event Co. ♥ Wedding Prep Venue: Austin Proper Hotel ♥ Wedding Reception Venue: Taquero Mucho ♥ Wedding Photographer: Sweet Memories Photography ♥ Florals: Moon Floral Studio ♥ Wedding Churros: Churro Burro ♥ DJ: Cruz Collective ♥ Transportation: Metrocycle Pedicabs

Austin Family Photographer: the Price Family

Being an Austin family photographer, I have the pleasure of working with some of the most amazing families!

Most of the time, I am even more blessed to continue photographing families as they grow in size and/or age. Such is the case with the Price family. Last July, I got to meet and photograph this beautiful family. Well, they have since added to their family!

Meet the New Guy

Meet the new guy in this family of 6! After having three beautiful little girls, it was time to try to even the numbers out! Poor dad has been outnumbered for years (not that he’s complaining)! But now the little ladies are so excited to have a baby brother and can’t wait to show him the ropes (and their favorite park!).

The Price family at Brushy Creek Lake Park in Cedar Park, Texas.
The lovely ladies of the Price family.

The lovely ladies just couldn’t resist kissing their baby brother, whether it was his hand, cheeks, lips, or feet!

Austin Family Photographer | Cedar Park, TX
Big kisses for little brother.
After having a session with me prior, the girls knew exactly what to expect!
Mom, dad, and baby boy.
The little girls posing with mom, dad, and brother in the background.
What a beautiful family at Brushy Creek Lake Park.

A few moments for just the boys:

Like father, like son.
Welcoming their new baby brother into their family and pictures!
Some sweet moments with mom and baby boy.
Austin Family Photographer | Cedar Park, TX

No one wants to take their eyes of this beautiful baby boy! They love their little brother so much!

That golden light peeking through the trees as the girls keep their baby brother company.

All the leading ladies of the Price family:

Austin Family Photographer | Cedar Park, TX
Newborn baby boy spoiled with love and kisses.
Austin Family Photographer | Cedar Park, TX

While baby brother was being fed, the girls ran off with dad to play on the playground at Brushy Creek Lake Park.

The girls taking a break and running around Brushy Creek Lake Park while mom feeds baby.
Austin Family Photographer | Cedar Park, TX
A quick nap for the newborn before more pictures.
Austin Family Photographer | Cedar Park, TX
Daddy's little girls sitting on his lap on the rocking chair.
Sweet moments with the children.
Brushy creek lake park is the perfect spot for family pictures.
Mommy and baby time.
Look how little his hands are!
Baby in a basket in the middle of a field.
Austin Family Photographer | Cedar Park, TX
Sleepy baby.
We couldn't have asked for a better day or better lighting for this newborn session.
This newborn is tired! What a job it is to be photographed!

Tips for Your Session From Your Austin Family Photographer

Whether you do family pictures once a year or once in your lifetime, the task can seem daunting. The truth is, it really isn’t that scary! As long as you keep in mind the following, and do a tiny bit of homework, it’s quite easy. And honestly, the homework can be fun, like picking and coordinating clothes! To help you out, I have put together my tips for an amazing family session:

Location: 

Choose a location and/or atmosphere that you feel comfortable to be yourselves in, whether it’s in the comfort of your own home or at your favorite park or venue. Or if you’re visiting a destination, talk to your photographer about locations that would be perfect for the session you are envisioning. Keep in mind of the type of backdrop you want in your photos (cityscapes, beach, parka fun venue, etc.). We want to make sure you love your images and the first step to getting those amazing images is finding the backdrop that you love!

Lighting: 

Since I am a natural light photographer, I schedule my sessions for when there is optimal lighting. This often means right after sunrise or right before sunset. The only exception to this is if I am shooting indoors. I will work with you on finding the best time for photos, and to work around your family’s schedule!

What to Wear: 

The most important thing is that everyone feels amazing. Wear clothes that you feel great in, fit well, are comfortable, and compliment everyone’s outfits. Stay away from extremely busy patterns and coordinate, but don’t match! Stay away from wearing “matchy-matchy” outfits (example: everyone wearing white shirts and blue jeans). Depending on the location you choose, you may want to bring a change of shoes (i.e. cityscape with heels but bring a pair of flip flops to walk around in).

Children/Newborns: 

Make sure that everyone is well-rested, fed, and hydrated. This makes a world of difference in the attitudes. Be sure to bring along a few snacks and drinks, as well as something to reward your children with. A lot of children respond well and give great smiles if they are reminded that they will be rewarded with a toy or treat at the end of the session, as long as they listen to the parents and the photographer. I know that children often get impatient and restless, so during our session, we will give them a few breaks within the hour we are together so the children can run and play, or have a small snack in between shots. It’s great to use these 5 minute breaks to get some beautiful pictures of you, the parents.

Parents: 

It is best to leave the instructions to the photographer. You can get easily distracted with telling your children how to pose, when to smile, or when to look at the camera. It’s during these times that we, the photographers, will get cute ones of the children, but the parents are often looking somewhere else other than the camera, with their mouths open, or looking impatient and/or annoyed. So when the photographer says, “look at the camera!” be sure to look at the camera and allow the photographer to grab the attention of the children.

Pets: 

We LOVE pets and welcome you to bring them to your session. In order to have a successful and adorable session with your pet(s), please allow your dog to run around the backyard or have a fun play session, and use the bathroom at least 30 minutes prior to our session. This will help keep their excitement down for our posed shots and decrease the amount of times we have to stop for bathroom breaks and clean up. Also, please bring a squeaky toy and tons of treats as this is the best way to get your pet(s) attention when we need them looking at the camera.

Props: 

We welcome any props you may want to use, whether it’s your dog, the due date board, balloons, sparklers, etc. If you choose to bring props, depending on the size (i.e. balloons, pets, big signage), please bring an extra person as well! We won’t need those props in every photo but want to have them accessible! An extra person will help with this as they can hold the props/leashes while we have our fun! The most popular props are blankets, a sonogram, pets, and bubbles. We definitely ask you to bring at least one blanket for sitting purposes (we want to protect you and your clothes from either the sand or grass!) if we are shooting outside of your home. Try to keep the amount of props down to one bag, especially for when we are walking around. The less you have to carry, the less stress you feel!

Trust: 

Trust your photographer to be creative, make you feel comfortable, direct you when needed, and provide you with some amazing shots! If you worry too much about controlling the session, you won’t have fun and neither will your photographer.

HAVE FUN! 

Be yourselves, interact with each other and with your belly, be playful, laugh, and have a good time! Let your personalities shine!

Megan and Jameson’s Austin Wedding

This Austin wedding has it all: the perfect love story, a gorgeous couple, amazing friends and family, good food, and an epic party! What more could a couple ask for?!

First Comes Love, Then Comes Engagement ….

Remember how Megan and Jameson met? No? Well, head back over to my post on their Zilker Park engagement session to read about it here.

After meeting, these two both just knew they were meant for each other. So while they were visiting family in Minnesota, Jameson popped the question.

During a snow storm, the two came in from the freezing weather. Jameson bent down to help Megan take off her snow-covered boots. He began telling her how much he loved her and wanted to spend the rest of his life with her. And, with her mom, dad, siblings, and best friend as witnesses, he asked for her hand in marriage.

Now they’re ready to take the next step and get married at their Austin wedding!

Lilac and Champagne Austin Wedding

November 13th, 2021: Megan and Jameson’s big day. All of their lilac and champagne visions and wedding planning are finally coming together. But, more importantly, they are going to become Mr. and Mrs.!

These two attend church services at Riverbend Church so it was only appropriate that they had their first look and wedding ceremony here.

Mom putting on the groom's boutonniere at this Austin wedding.

Their First Look:

Megan and Jameson had their first look prior to their ceremony.
Megan and Jameson had their first look prior to their ceremony.
Megan and Jameson had their first look prior to their ceremony.

I love that they gave each other twirls so they could really take each other all in!

Megan and Jameson had their first look prior to their ceremony.
Megan and Jameson had their first look prior to their ceremony.

The dapper groom rocking the textured suit and lilac bow.

Jameson's groom portraits.
The groom's portraits.

Have you seen a more beautiful bride?!

Megan's bridal portraits.
Bridal portraits.
Bridal portraits.
Megan and Jameson's couples' portraits.
Megan and Jameson's couples' portraits.
Megan and Jameson's couples' portraits.
Megan and Jameson's couples' portraits.
Megan and Jameson's couples' portraits.
Megan and Jameson's couples' portraits.
Megan and Jameson's couples' portraits.
Megan and Jameson's couples' portraits.
Megan and Jameson's couples' portraits and their cute shoes.
Megan and Jameson's couples' portraits.

We interrupt the stunning couple’s portraits for family and wedding party pictures …

Family portraits.
The bride and her family.
Austin wedding party.
We like to have fun and pose during our formal photos.
The beautiful wedding party.
Austin wedding party pictures.

Jameson gave all of his groomsmen matching sunglasses and watches. So, of course, they had to sport them on the wedding day!

Wedding party pictures.

The Riverbend Remembrance and rose gardens was the perfect backdrop. With the roses in full bloom, it provided a really cool contrast to the Fall weather. The Autumn leaves were beginning to turn and fall off the trees, while the roses were lush and full of life. It was definitely the dreamiest spot for Megan and Jameson’s portraits.

Megan and Jameson's couples' portraits in the rose garden.
Megan and Jameson's couples' portraits.
Megan and Jameson's couples' portraits.
Megan and Jameson's couples' portraits.
Megan and Jameson's couples' portraits.
Megan and Jameson's couples' portraits.
Megan and Jameson's couples' portraits.

And they’re off to prepare for their “I do’s.”

Walking back to the church after their portraits.

Austin Wedding Ceremony

Since they didn’t need the whole, gigantic Riverbend church for the amount of guests that were attending, they opted for the cute and intimate chapel instead. It couldn’t have been more perfect!

Wedding details.
The Austin wedding processional.
The bride walking down the aisle with both of her dads.
The bride walking down the aisle with both of her dads.

Despite having a first look prior to the ceremony, Jameson couldn’t hold back his tears when Megan walked down the aisle with her two fathers. I absolutely love the sweet moment when Megan wiped the tear off his cheek.

Indoor wedding ceremony.
Indoor wedding ceremony.
Indoor wedding ceremony.
Indoor wedding ceremony.

“The wedding sand ceremony, which is also referred to as a unity sand ceremony, is a wedding tradition wherein two small vessels of sand are poured into a third vessel.” (Wedding Frontier)

The wedding sand ceremony, which is also referred to as a unity sand ceremony, is a wedding tradition wherein two small vessels of sand are poured into a third vessel
The couple doing a sand ceremony.
Austin wedding ceremony
Exchanging of rings.
They said "I do!"
First kiss as husband and wife.
Megan and Jameson's Austin wedding ceremony.
They're husband and wife!
Post-ceremony celebration at Riverbend Chapel.

The Newlyweds’ Reception

After the happy couple officially became husband and wife, we made our way to the Austin Marriott North. The newly renovated hotel had all the components that Megan and Jameson wanted for their lilac and champagne wedding.

Wedding details.
The guests hanging out and waiting for the wedding party to arrive.

And the wedding party has arrived:

The newlyweds celebrate their Austin wedding reception.

Time for their special dances:

Their first dance as husband and wife.
Their first dance as husband and wife.
Their first dance as husband and wife.

Megan shared sweet dances with both of her fathers.

The bride shared a dance with both of her fathers.

Jameson and his mother’s turn!

The mother-son dance.

And ended the special dances with an anniversary dance to celebrate her mom and stepfather’s anniversary:

An anniversary dance at this Austin wedding.

Toasting to the happy couple!

The father takes the stage and gives a toast to the happy couple.
Cheers to the happy couple
The couple's closest friends and family make toasts.

Megan’s talented sister designed and baked their wedding cake. I love when couples include intimate and personal details!

The bride's sister baked and designed the couple's wedding cake.
The bride and groom cutting the cake.

Time to Partayyyyyy!

There's nothing like a good wedding reception with lots of dancing!
The party goes on!
Austin wedding.
The bride and groom's Austin wedding reception.
Partying at this Austin wedding.

Taking a break from the dancing, the married couple decided to include a few other traditions: the shoe game and the bouquet and garter toss:

The shoe game.
Time for the garter.

What Jameson didn’t know was that he was about to get iced!

The groom gets iced!

It was an absolute dream of a wedding to be a part of! Thank you, Megan and Jameson, for allowing me to be a part of it!! Congratulations on your union and wishing you both the most amazing life together!

Austin Wedding Vendors:

Bridal Boutique: Ivory Bridal Co. ♥ Hair and Makeup: Silk and Glow ♥ Wedding Ceremony Venue: Riverbend Church Chapel ♥ Wedding Reception Venue: Austin Marriott North ♥ Wedding Photographer: (that would be me) Sweet Memories Photography ♥ Florals: HEB Blooms ♥ Wedding Cake: Bride’s Sister ♥ DJ: DJ the Mood