Wedding, Family, & Engagement Photography Blog

Austin Family Photos with the Price Family

08.03.21

After moving to Texas three months ago, the Price family felt it was time to do their Austin family photos. This is not only because they want to document their new beginnings in a new city. It’s also because they haven’t updated their family photos since their second-born. And now, they’re expecting a fourth addition to their growing family!

Big Changes

I personally am a true believer in working to live. Not living to work. The Price family believes the same.

Mr. Price had a great job in California but his schedule didn’t allow for family time. An opportunity arose in Austin that would allow him to not only have a good job, but also allow him to spend quality time with his family. It wasn’t a hard decision for them to make as a family!

Austin Family Photos

As I mentioned before, the Price family just relocated to Austin in April. So these Austin family photos are necessary for many reasons:

To document their lives in their new city.
To update family pictures that they haven’t done in two years!
Going hand-in-hand with number two: they’re expecting baby number four and need to capture memories of the children at their current ages, including their first son still growing in the belly!

Austin family photos at Brushy Creek Lake park in Cedar Park.

These girls were so much fun to photograph.

Headshots of the girls were specifically requested.

Although the family wanted family photos, their main priority was capturing the girls in their element.

Like most families, the Price family wanted the traditional Austin family photos of everyone looking at the camera. However, their main priority was capturing their personalities and the girls being who they are in this stage of their lives. I absolutely love this approach, being more of a photojournalist.

My passion has always been capturing moments as they happen, portraying the subjects as they are, and allowing their personalities to shine through the pictures. A ‘picture is worth a thousand words’ and the girls did an amazing job telling their stories and who they are.

Austin family photos at Brushy Creek Lake park.

All the girls wanted to do was wander through the fields of Brushy Lake Creek Park.

Always bring a blanket to your session ... it makes for cute photos!

I always encourage bringing bubbles to family sessions!

Brenna was very intent and concentrating hard on creating bubbles.

Austin family photos at Brushy Lake Creek Park.

The three girls didn't want to touch at all ... so we worked with what we had and got this cute shot.

Brushy Creek Lake Park not only has a beautiful creek, lots of fields, but also this cool playground that's a huge hit with kids.

The girls had a blast running around the playground.

Brenna decided it was her turn to slide with dad.

McKinney Falls Engagement Session with Tre’Mesia and Fred

07.21.21

For a couple who consider themselves ‘indoorsy,’ I was a bit surprised that Tre’Mesia and Fred wanted a McKinney Falls engagement session! But, like most, when they saw photos of this park, they fell instantly in love. Thank goodness they did, because their session is to die for!

He Asked, She Said Yes!

“Each time we hit a new milestone, we visit this restaurant. On the way to the restaurant, Fred played A LOT of 90’s R&B love songs. I didn’t catch on at the time. He stopped at Nordstrom to get a jacket because he ‘needed a nice jacket.’

At the restaurant, we were seated quickly. Fred asked if I wanted to take photos because the place has a beautiful body of water behind it. I needed to use the restroom and as I got up, Fred asked the waitress if she would take a photo of us. At this point, she was in on it.

Eating our food, the waitress came around and asked us if we were ready to take some photos. Getting into our photo ready stance, the waitress starts counting to three. By the time she got to three, no flash had gone off. I felt Fred leaning down, but still holding onto me. Laughing, I ask him, ‘what are you doing?!’ I’m thinking he’s tying his shoe when all of a sudden, I see a shiny, red box in his hand that came out of the jacket he just bought. In it was this beautiful rose gold diamond ring! He says my full name and asks if I will marry him!

The entire time, the waitress who was supposedly taking a photo, had been recording it so we still have the video!”

McKinney Falls Engagement Session

Prior to any engagement session, I like to find out more about my couples and what they envision. One thing they both mentioned was that they love fun, laughing, flirty photos but also deep, soulful, romantic ones. They feel that they embody all of these in their relationship.

During their entire McKinney Falls engagement, we had so much fun walking around and just laughing.

This beautiful engagement ring was picked out by Fred himself.

They wanted to reflect who they really are in order for me to best tell their unique love story.

The McKinney Falls Engagement session was everything: romantic and sweet, fun and unique!

Golden hour is my favorite hour! Just look at this romantic light!

I love that these two just love to have fun and enjoy each other!

McKinney Falls state park is stunning with so many beautiful, natural backdrops.

I cannot wait for their wedding day in Georgetown.

These two were down for anything... including piggyback rides!

I say 'bring him in for a kiss' and I get great results!

Laughter is the key to love and happiness!

I believe this McKinney Falls state park engagement session is a success!

There's nothing more romantic than a sunset!

Another great spot at McKinney Falls state park!

A change of clothing for a bit more fun!

Little did they know we might be getting a little wet!

Fred and Tre had a blast splashing each other!

McKinney Falls is one of my favorite engagement session spots in Austin, Texas.

Tre’Mesia and Fred say that “there is joy sparking all around us and we can’t imagine life without each other.” Just an hour with these two, and I can honestly say that this statement is 100% true. You feel nothing but joy and love radiating from them. You feel joy just being around them. And I am so excited to be a part of their joy and celebrations not only with their engagement, but their wedding in five months, as well!!!

Dripping Springs Family Session

06.29.21

What’s better than this Dripping Springs family session? Oh, I don’t know! Maybe spending time with the coolest family in Texas!

Meet Molly

Molly is the founder, owner, and artist of Molly Makeup and Hair. I first met her when she styled my hair for my very first Texas photoshoot. We connected immediately! I absolutely love her laid-back personality and how welcoming and warm she is. Let’s not to mention how talented she is as both a hairstylist and makeup artist!

Dripping Springs Family Session

After working with Molly, we continued to keep in touch. We were even lucky to have the opportunity to work together on a styled shoot together (click here to see more of that) when she made a comment about scheduling her Dripping Springs family session with me.

She shared pictures of her kids with me and can I just say, she has one beautiful family! So of course I couldn’t wait to meet them!

It’s Go Time

When they first arrived onsite, I was already immediately taken with Molly’s children. Of course, being the kids of a makeup and hair artist, their styles were on point!

But that’s not what got me: it was how calm and polite they are. Most of the time, family sessions tend to be chaotic. This is understandable as parents are trying to get ready, kids have a tendency to not focus, and usually at least one person is ‘hangry’ haha! I expect this. What I didn’t expect was how chill everyone was!

Not only that, but they quickly warmed up to me and were ready and willing to have their pictures taken. Any of you who have children and tried to have your photos taken know this is not usually the case! 😂

So we walked over to the site Molly had picked out for us and had a great time!

Molly's whole world are her two kids. She really thrives on being a mother!

These two really are mommy's little kids. They really look up to her!

I love how much Phoenix and Skylar get along. Hopefully it stays that way throughout their lives! — They really are as close as the pictures make them seem. Two siblings who are joined at the hip!

This Dripping Springs location was beautiful! With all the natural light and really cool architecture...

Molly could not get enough of these photos of her children!

Phoenix was not a fan of taking photos by himself but we walked him through it and got some adorable shots!

How cool is this spot in Dripping Springs??

Molly and her children are absolutely beautiful, as well as sweet and kind souls!

These shots crack me up because all Skylar was worried about was messing up her hair!

The love and bond that Skylar and her little brother share is everything! — It’s so sweet how much Phoenix looks up to his big sister!

That view behind this little family is amazing. This is why Dripping Springs is the place to be!

Nearing the end of our session when Phoenix was counting down how many more shots I was going to take haha!

Lucky for me, a lizard had entertained the kids to make them last just a few seconds longer.

Phoenix, her son, ran out of steam pretty quickly but with count-downs and a little bit of bribery, we got it done!

Picking flowers for his mom while she tied his shoes.

As a reward, we promised Skylar and Phoenix that they could have some free time on the playground. I always recommend allowing children to be children towards the end of our sessions. This allows me to capture their true personalities and them in their elements.

I truly believe in letting kids be kids so we had a lot of fun in the playground.

Phoenix learned how to swing this day, with a little bit of coaching from me! — Phoenix didn’t know how to swing. After a few instructions, he picked it up real quick!

Having a great time together, playing on the playground.

We ended our session with the sandbox, where they built castles.

And so our session ended with the biggest smiles! Also with the promise of ice cream from their favorite place. I’d say it was a very successful Dripping Springs family session!

The Preserve at Canyon Lake Wedding

06.21.21

This Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding was nothing less than perfect. With bright colors, variety of fruits, the coolest details, and the venue itself, we were able to make this modern tropical dream wedding into a reality!

Wedding Venue

There is nothing more magical than stepping onto the grounds of the Preserve at Canyon Lake. With 170-acres of wildlife preservation consisting of a spring-fed lake, surrounded by mature trees and the serene sounds of nature, it is the perfect place to be married. This venue is conveniently located between Austin and San Antonio. This makes it the perfect fit for a couple who want to get away from the hustle bustle of the city but not too far for friends and family to come out and celebrate.

The Chapel

The chapel: There are no words! It really is like saying “I do” outside. But with the comfort of knowing weather cannot ruin your day and air conditioning to keep you cool. Their panoramic windows are breathtaking! And from a photographer’s point of view, between the natural light, high ceilings, and different perspectives, you can’t go wrong.

The Ballroom

The Preserve at Canyon lake’s ballroom is a gorgeous blank canvas where a couple can bring their dream vision to life. This venue has high ceilings, exposed wooden beams, and accompanied by a cozy fireplace, with every wall filled with windows to view the lake and nature … who wouldn’t want to be married here?

Outdoor Ceremony

Let’s not forget that couples can still be married outside. There’s an intimate spot underneath a canopy of trees, overlooking the lake. Just imagine:

The swaying of trees as the wind blows through.

The sun trickling through the leaves.

Saying your vows while overlooking the lake.

It doesn’t get any more romantic!

The Preserve at Canyon Lake Wedding

So, as you’ve seen in my past posts, I think styled shoots are amazing. We bring together a team of talented vendors who have a specific vision and bring it to life. When the vendors are true professionals and have the same dream, the styled shoot goes flawlessly. That’s what happened with this Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding styled shoot. We had a modern tropical vision, inspired by all the summer vibes while keeping it classy.

I know what you may be thinking: “didn’t this girl just come from Florida where everything is tropical? Isn’t she sick of ‘tropical?'”

The answer is NO! Although I just moved from tropical paradise, I am still very much in love with all things tropical, exotic, colorful, and bright! So when Sara from Diletta Elaine Weddings got to talking, we both were on the same page with this idea!

The details for this Preserve at Canyon Lake wedding included a variety of fruits, tropical-inspired florals, bright colors, a fun photobooth, and a vintage camper. And that’s just to name a few details!!

This Austin wedding was a dream! All of the modern tropical vibes at this gorgeous venue couldn't have been more perfect!

Wedding Planner: Diletta Elaine Weddings ♥ Wedding Venue: The Preserve at Canyon Lake ♥ Photographer: Sweet Memories Photography ♥ Videographer: Huckleberry Wedding Films ♥ Bride’s Hair and Makeup: Molly Makeup and Hair ♥ Bridal Salon: Melange Bridal ♥ Bar: Darlin’s Wanderin’ Bar ♥ Florals: Blumen Meister’s ♥ Cake: Nothing Bundt Cakes ♥ Car: Baby Blue Drives for You ♥ Stationery: Joy Collaborative ♥ Rentals: Relic Rentals ♥ Marquee: Alpha-Lit Austin ♥ Photobooth: Mirmir ♥ Models: Savannah Jolayne and Ryan Hamilton

Best Wedding Venues in Austin, Texas

06.16.21

And so my search for best wedding venues in Austin continues with part II, including South Congress hotel, Whispering Oaks Estate, Woodbine Mansion, and the Preserve at Canyon Lake …

My last blog post featured four amazing wedding venues. But as I continue to meet new people and explore more of Austin, I find that my list of best wedding venues continues to grow. There is just an endless amount of charming spots!

South Congress Hotel

First stop for part II is the South Congress Hotel. This venue is a locally-owned boutique hotel that has three unique restaurants, a coffee and bake shop, a rooftop pool, lobby bar, and two retail shops. Most importantly, it’s conveniently located off the popular Congress street! The perfect spot to explore Austin, view the Capital, and visit a lot of cool murals.

Here your guests (and dogs) can stay for the wedding and feel right at home. As for your wedding, you can the option of having it inside or outside, or both! A great perk since weather cannot be predicted ahead of time.

Let’s not forget to mention all the hidden spots in and around South Congress hotel, making it one of my favorites and thus making it on my list of best wedding venues in Austin.

**photos taken and edited by me for Photos by MKay**

Getting ready at the South Congress Hotel.

Intimate moments between the bride and her mom.

Bridal portraits outside of the bride's room at the South Congress hotel.

Exchanging of gifts and formal pictures.

Behind South Congress hotel are some really cool spots to take pictures.

Time to say "I do" at the South Congress hotel.

The wedding ceremony at South Congress hotel.

Another hidden gem at the South Congress hotel.

Walking down South Congress street for photo opps with murals.

Love this street shot with the capital behind the bride and groom.

This mural is found in Austin, Texas, right by the South Congress hotel.

Whispering Oaks Estate

Another one of the best venues to get married is the Whispering Oaks Estate. At this Dripping Springs location, you feel one with nature. Nestled on acres of lush lawns and mature oaks, this property provides a secluded and scenic backdrop for intimate celebrations.

Ideal for smaller weddings, the Whispering Oaks Estate can accommodate up to eighty guests. Here you are surrounded by gently swaying oak trees while receptions are hosted in a climate-controlled indoor event space. You and your guests can stay overnight in the farmhouse. Other amenities you can enjoy include an outdoor swimming pool and hot tub, and a fire pit.

And let me just tell you, golden hour here is a dream. The light that comes through the oak trees is absolutely magical!

**photos taken and edited by me for Photos by MKay**

Wedding ceremony at Whispering Oaks Estate.

Getting ready indoors at the wedding venue

The bride about to get into her wedding dress.

First look on the porch at Whispering Oaks Estate.

Love a good and romantic shot that features one of the best wedding venues in Austin.

Outdoor wedding ceremony at Whispering Oaks Estate.

About to say "I do" surrounded by their closest friends and family.

Entering the climate-controlled reception area.

Golden light at the Whispering Oaks Estate is everything.

Such a cute couple and so much fun to photograph.

This Austin couple has waited so long to finally be married.

Last photo before they dance the night away!

Woodbine Mansion

Just when you thought you had seen it all …

Welcome to Woodbine Mansion, another gorgeous wedding venue that provides both indoor and outdoor spaces to get married.

While a lot of the best wedding venues in Austin are found in Dripping Springs, this one is in Round Rock, only 19 miles from Downtown. This historic landmark location has had such a dramatic renovation and it has paid off. Its lush grounds, magnolia trees, beautiful architecture, grand staircase and chandeliers, make it one of the most magnificent venues yet!

You can read its history here and see what it was and how it came to be the most beautiful wedding venue.

The indoor spaces at Woodbine Mansion are a dream!

During spring, these flowers come out and really make the wedding venue pop!

The chandeliers inside the Woodbine Mansion are grand and beautiful... perfect for any wedding.

Love the architecture of Woodbine Mansion.

Just picture yourself walking down the grand staircase.

This room or any place on Woodbine Mansion's property is the perfect spot to say "I do."

This room is one of the getting ready spots and has so much natural light.

I highly recommend renting a getaway car to end your wedding night!

Another spot to have your wedding ceremony. Not only is the architecture stunning, but this spot is lined with magnolia trees.

I love this spot at the Woodbine Mansion.

Lanterns line this beautiful walkway and is another perfect place to have your outdoor wedding ceremony.

No matter where you go at Woodbine Mansion, it's picture-perfect!

Inside one of the smaller spaces, you'll find a lot of natural light, wood floors, high ceilings, and grand chandeliers.

The Preserve at Canyon Lake

Let’s talk about a venue that has it all: The Preserve at Canyon Lake. An amazing couple, inspired by their own wedding, dreamt of creating a venue of their own. There is breathtaking scenery and spectacular views everywhere you look. And under a canopy of hundred-year-old oak trees sits an outdoor ceremony site. Or you can say “I do” inside their chapel, with the comfort of air conditioning but with the Preserve at Canyon Lake’s towering panoramic windows overlooking the lake.

The Ballroom offers a simple yet elegant space. The interior is light and airy providing a blank canvas to personalize and create the dream wedding. Natural light pours in from the windows to make for perfect photo opportunities, not to mention the exposed wood beam ceilings and fireplace that provide a sense of warmth and coziness.

The Preserve at Canyon Lake is just magical. There are no other words!