Lee & Stephany’s JP wedding at the downtown Houston courthouse.
Monday Andy and I took the spawn to the local courthouse to get his very first passport. That reminded me of this amazing JP wedding I shot downtown last year. The interesting thing about the JP weddings at the downtown courthouse is that they don’t happen in an actual court but in the rotunda. Family can line up along the spiral staircase or around the edge of the rotunda to watch.
Before Lee and Stephany’s wedding, we took some family photos as well as couple portraits around the courthouse. I loved getting to meet their fur-baby and taking some photos of him as well.
Victor & Jordyn’s spring field engagement in Houston.
Close to the end of spring flower season last year, Victor and Jordyn met me at Memorial Park to take some photos in a cute little field just beyond the regular running/walking paths. Luckily there were still some wildflowers in the field, including thistle (which I love!). I enjoyed walking through the small paths made by human or animal as we chatted about all things wedding and life in general.
Andres & Leticia’s Eleanor Tinsley Park Engagement Portraits.
Eleanor Tinsley is such a versatile place to take your engagement photos. I love that you can see both the city skyline as well as ancient oak trees and unique statues and water features in the park.
I met Andrew & Leticia near Waugh bridge on a beautiful day in spring last year. We walked a bit of a circle around Buffalo Bayou trying out parts of the park I hadn’t visited yet. I didn’t know there was a dog park there or so many awesome bridges.
As the bustling city of Houston gears up for another year of love and matrimony, couples are setting the stage for weddings that blend tradition with the contemporary. 2024 promises to be an exciting time for weddings in Houston, with trends that showcase the city’s rich cultural diversity, love for innovation, and a touch of Southern charm. In this blog post, we’ll explore the top wedding trends that are set to make waves in the Houston wedding scene.
Texan Elegance:
Houston couples are infusing their weddings with a touch of Texan charm, celebrating the city’s rich cultural heritage. Rustic elements, cowboy boots, and Southern-inspired cuisine are making a comeback. From BBQ buffets to Tex-Mex flavors, couples are incorporating local tastes to create a wedding experience that is distinctly Houstonian.
Outdoor Extravaganzas:
With its favorable climate, Houston continues to be a hub for outdoor weddings. In 2024, couples are choosing picturesque outdoor venues such as lush gardens, vineyards, and waterfront locations. Outdoor ceremonies and receptions under the Texas sky are gaining popularity, providing a natural and romantic backdrop for the celebration.
Cultural Fusion:
Houston’s diverse population is reflected in the wedding trends of 2024, with couples embracing cultural fusion in their celebrations. From incorporating traditional rituals to infusing diverse cuisines and music styles, weddings in Houston are a melting pot of cultural influences that honor the backgrounds of both partners.
Houston Skyline as the Backdrop:
As the cityscape of Houston evolves, couples are choosing iconic venues with panoramic views of the Houston skyline. Rooftop weddings and venues with large windows overlooking the city are becoming increasingly popular, offering a breathtaking backdrop for both daytime and evening celebrations.
Live Music Experiences:
Known for its vibrant music scene, Houston weddings are turning into live music extravaganzas. Couples are hiring local bands, solo artists, and DJs to create an electric atmosphere. From classic country tunes to contemporary hits, live music is becoming an integral part of the wedding experience in Houston.
Blend of Modern and Vintage:
In 2024, couples are striking a balance between modern elegance and vintage charm. Mixing sleek, contemporary decor with subtle nods to the past, such as vintage-inspired attire and classic car arrivals, creates a timeless and sophisticated aesthetic for Houston weddings.
Technology Integration:
As a tech-forward city, Houston couples are incorporating cutting-edge technology into their wedding celebrations. From virtual reality experiences to personalized wedding apps, technology is enhancing the guest experience and allowing couples to share their special day with friends and family, no matter where they are.
Houston, with its dynamic spirit and diverse culture, is poised to be a trendsetter in the wedding scene in 2024. From Texan elegance to cultural fusion, outdoor extravaganzas to breathtaking skyline views, couples are weaving a tapestry of love that reflects the unique essence of Houston. As we embark on another year of love stories, Houston weddings are set to be a harmonious blend of tradition, innovation, and the undeniable warmth that the city is known for.
In 2023, weddings have taken a wonderfully nerdy turn.
No longer confined to traditional themes, couples are embracing their inner geeks and incorporating their favorite fandoms into their big day. From Star Wars to Harry Potter, superhero sagas to video games, the world of nerd culture is making its mark on the wedding scene. If you’re a fan of all things nerdy and planning to tie the knot, here are the top wedding trends of 2023 that you won’t want to miss.
Sci-Fi Spectaculars
Science fiction has always been a beloved genre among nerds, and it’s now making its way into weddings. Couples are opting for space-themed ceremonies complete with starry backdrops, futuristic décor, and even astro-inspired wedding attire. Don’t be surprised if you see a Darth Vader officiant or a Starship Enterprise cake at your next wedding invite.
Fantasy-Inspired Elegance
Fantasy worlds are a favorite escape for many, and in 2023, they’re taking center stage at weddings. Think enchanted forest settings inspired by Tolkien’s Middle-earth or majestic castles reminiscent of the wizarding world in Harry Potter. Brides and grooms are donning medieval-style attire, and you might even find wedding rings with Elvish inscriptions.
Superhero Soirees
Superheroes have captured our hearts on the big screen, and now they’re swooping into weddings too. Couples are embracing comic book aesthetics with superhero-themed décor, cake toppers, and invitations. Some are even exchanging vows in full superhero attire, making for epic photo opportunities and unforgettable memories.
Retro Gaming Romance
For couples who grew up with video games, a retro gaming-themed wedding is a dream come true. Think 8-bit pixel art, Tetris-inspired seating arrangements, and wedding invitations that resemble old-school game cartridges. Retro gaming-themed photo booths and arcade-style games are also popular additions to keep guests entertained.
Comic Con-Inspired Favors
Favors have gotten a nerdy makeover as well. Instead of traditional trinkets, couples are giving out custom-made action figures, collectible trading cards, or mini comic books featuring their love story. These unique keepsakes are sure to delight guests and provide a lasting memory of the special day.
Cosplay Couples
Cosplay enthusiasts are taking their love for dressing up to the altar. Couples are choosing to exchange vows as their favorite characters from movies, anime, or video games. Whether it’s Sailor Moon and Tuxedo Mask or Mario and Princess Peach, these weddings are a delightful celebration of shared passions.
Geeky Gourmet
Nerdy wedding cakes are a must-have in 2023. Bakers are creating intricate designs inspired by beloved franchises, from Harry Potter’s Hogwarts Castle to Game of Thrones’ Iron Throne. Couples are also incorporating themed food and drink menus, such as butterbeer for Harry Potter fans or a “Hobbit Feast” inspired by J.R.R. Tolkien’s works.
Virtual Reality Guest Experiences
With the rise of virtual reality (VR), some couples are opting for hybrid weddings that allow remote guests to participate in the celebration through VR headsets. This trend is particularly popular among tech-savvy couples who want to include friends and family from around the world, creating a truly global celebration.
Nerd culture is taking the wedding world by storm in 2023, and the results are nothing short of spectacular. Couples are infusing their love for all things geeky into every aspect of their special day, creating memorable and personalized experiences for themselves and their guests. Whether you’re a Star Wars superfan, a gaming geek, or a fantasy enthusiast, there’s a nerdy wedding trend in 2023 that’s sure to capture your heart and imagination. So, embrace your inner nerd and let your love story shine in a galaxy far, far away or a fantastical realm of your choosing!
Little boys 5 and under in a tux is the cutest thing in the world, but sometimes it’s not feasible to have an adorable kid as your ring bearer at your wedding.
Here are 5 alternatives for a ring barer.
Don’t have one. Just send the rings down with the best man or if the maid/matron of honor has pockets, she can hold them too!
Have an older relative walk the rings down the aisle. If you’re really close to your grandpa and want him to take part in your wedding, now’s your chance! If you have a cousin or sibling that you want in your wedding but don’t have the room for them as a groomsman, they can be an extra enthusiastic ring bearer (with fanny-pack and all).
Do you have a pet that’s special to you? Strap the rings to your pet and have someone walk them down the aisle.
Use technology. Send an RC car or drone down the aisle with the ring. Bonus points if the drone can drop the rings into someone’s hand!
Want to be extra? Hire a falconer to send your rings down the aisle with a falcon!
Do you have any creative ideas on getting your wedding rings down the aisle? I would love to hear them. Leave me a comment!
I’ve spent the better part of 2 months helping my son’s school plan a Spring Carnival. As the carnival is nearing (and because I’ve had carnival on the brain) I thought it would be fun to share some carnival themed wedding ideas.
The most important thing to remember when theming your wedding, whether it’s Harry Potter themed or Starry Night themed, is subtlety. Take your theme and water it down. You can use hints of color to make your point or small elements. When you take a theme and water it down so it’s not so blatant, you create a more elegant wedding design.
The Entertainers: Hire some entertainers for your reception/cocktail hour. Any of the following entertainers would be a unique & fun experience for you and your guests:
Fire-eater
Contortionist
Balloon animal artist
Petting Zoo
Trapeze artist
Clown (though they can be scary for children & adults alike)
Have some carnival games for guests
The Decoration: Decorations can make or brake a wedding design. As I stated above, you would want to take your theme and water it down a little. That means, if you want red & white striped fabric (very carnival-esk) either have only one small area that’s red & white striped or have some red and some white in different places but never together.
Drape white fabric from the ceiling like the inside of a carnival tent. You can even pair it with twinkling lights for a more romantic tone.
Colorful balloon arrangements either hanging like chandeliers or in vases like flowers.
Gold silverware or miss matched plates and glasses.
Paint some toy animals gold and use them to decorate tables or even as a cake topper.
Rent a fog machine to fog the dance floor
Send your guests admission tickets with their invitation
The Food: You could have a lot of fun with food options.
Carnival Themed Food Trucks
Candy Apple’s & assorted candy in jars and Cotton Candy
Here’s a list of the 2023 wedding trends I’m excited for.
Color! Even as a child, I’ve been obsessed with color. I memorized the order of the rainbow before I was in elementary school. I’m also flabbergasted when adults don’t know the order (or what primary colors mixed together make what secondary colors). Color in weddings is making a big & bold statement. It’s in bouquets, in bridesmaids gowns and in the decorations. Be bold with your color choices. Consult a color wheel to help you pick the perfect harmonic balance.
Colorful wedding dress: I have always loved a wedding dress that stands out from the norm. Some of my ALL-TIME favorite weddings dresses either had a pop of color, like a floral pattern, or were a solid color instead of white. Be fun and bold… who cares what your stuck-in-the-mud relatives think. It’s your wedding, own it!
Custom Dance floor: This year, couples are opting to deck out their dance floors. Maybe you have an awesome marquee lighting your space or you have a flower bedecked disco ball hanging from the ceiling. If the dance floor is a place you want to be and you want your guests to join you, make it fun, flirty & memorable.
Private Last Dance: Still holding strong from last year. The private last dance is one of my favorite things to shoot. I love that the couple gets one last moment enjoying their wedding night in a quiet space with only their DJ & Photographers for company. One of my favorite things to do during private last dances is to move through the back of the room framing the couple with their dark & empty tables.
Sustainability: I’ve always been a tree-huger and can see how weddings can become wasteful. Some of my favorite things couples have done include seeds and living plants as wedding favors. Some things you can do to have an Eco-friendly wedding — use Eco-friendly invitations & decor, encouraging guests and wedding party to carpool or use a bus to transport guests, use biodegradable confetti for your grand exit, don’t use single use dinnerware and glassware
Capes! Seriously, capes are in this year. I LOVE this for us! I’ve seen brides pin muslin to their gown with gorgeous brioches to make a cape. I’ve also seen some awesome capes with groom’s attire. There’s a very fine line from elegant to gimmicky with capes, however. Be careful & use an editorial eye.
Embroidered veils: This is such a neat idea. I’ve had a couple of brides do this and it really added to the entire look. Make sure to include colors and flowers you intend on having at your wedding to really pull the whole look together.
Comfy & cute shoes: Who says fashion has to be pain? Wear those converse at your wedding. You can really spruce up your sneakers by embroidering them, bedazzling them or personalizing them in any way. Do you have a really comfortable pair of boots? Wear those! As cute as the shoes are, if you’re ditching them halfway through the night, were they worth it?
What are your thoughts? What trends are you really excited for and what trends are you ready to disappear?
Arnold & Maritza’s wedding at The Springs Event Venue in Angleton, TX.
Just before Thanksgiving, Arnold & Maritza gathered all of their friends and family to witness their marriage. The theme for the wedding was Fall & Thanksgiving! The couple chose a beautiful rust orange & sage green color pallet & offered their guests traditional Thanksgiving pie!
Arnold & Maritza chose to have a first touch before their ceremony. We found a quiet place where they could hold hands and talk quietly to each other. After the first touch, Arnold lined up with his groomsmen and Maritza shared a first look with her father.
The couple and their guests danced well into the night!
In early November I photographed a wedding for one of the sweetest couples. Blayton and Ryleigh, more than high school sweethearts, said “I do” in front of friends and family in the gorgeous chapel at Addison Woods.
I first met the couple for their engagement portraits at Addison Woods. They were coming down from College Station and would have a nice date night after their engagement portraits.
The day of the wedding was gorgeous. The sun was shining bright through the crops of trees on the Addison Woods property. We took a couple of quick photos of the bride with her friends in their adorable silk pajamas before having a little fun with some champagne. Ryleigh wanted to have a first look with her father and grandfather as well as her bridesmaids. The reactions to Ryleigh all dressed up brings tears to my eyes just thinking about them.
As the wedding night progressed, I had the opportunity to chat with Ryleigh’s Papa, who not only married the happy couple, but now shares a wedding anniversary with them. He told me that when Blayton was in elementary school, he told Papa that he was “going to marry that girl.” When They were 12, Blayton asked if he could date Ryleigh. Her parents asked him to wait, and wait he did. When they were in High School, they started dating, unknowingly on the same day as Ryleigh’s Papa & Nanna’s wedding anniversary. As the years progressed, the couple started celebrating their anniversary together. It’s only fitting that they will now have an even stronger bond.
Many phones, and a TV in the Grooms suit were playing the Astros 6th game in the World Series that evening. As the night was wrapping up and guests were getting into their car, I heard cheering. The Astros managed to get out from their 0-1 rut and got a couple of runs.
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Comfy & cute shoes: Who says fashion has to be pain? Wear those converse at your wedding. You can really spruce up your sneakers by embroidering them, bedazzling them or personalizing them in any way. Do you have a really comfortable pair of boots? Wear those! As cute as the shoes are, if you’re ditching them halfway through the night, were they worth it?