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Dia De Los Muertos Engagement Portraits

Celebrating Love and Heritage: A Día de los Muertos Engagement Session

When two people come together to celebrate their love, it’s a powerful, unforgettable moment. Add a touch of heritage, tradition, and a celebration of life and remembrance, and you have something truly magical. Last year, I had the honor of photographing an engagement session inspired by Día de los Muertos, and it was nothing short of incredible!

Here’s a look at how this unique session came together and why Día de los Muertos made the perfect backdrop for this couple’s engagement story.

Why Día de los Muertos?

Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a cherished Mexican tradition that celebrates life, memory, and family. Rooted in vibrant colors, honoring loved ones, and joyous festivity, this holiday is a beautiful reflection of love that transcends generations. My couple wanted to incorporate these elements into their engagement session as a nod to their cultural heritage and as a way to bring deeper meaning into their love story.

Setting the Scene

To bring the spirit of Día de los Muertos to life, we chose a location rich with unique beauty and vibrant colors. We met at Smither Park on the east side of Houston, a location filled with vibrant color tiles and glass from artists around Houston.

The couple wore traditional-inspired outfits, blending modern attire with classic elements like embroidered floral designs and beautiful accessories. The couple dressed as a bride and groom bride-to-be and the groom had their faces panted. The bride wore several elaborate flower crowns. Their looks combined elegance, tradition, and personality, making each shot a true celebration of both their love and their heritage.

Capturing the Love Story

One of my favorite moments was photographing the couple by the altar, surrounded by vibrant tiles. The energy was warm, respectful, and joyful, capturing the essence of Día de los Muertos as a celebration of life and love. I used creative posing and gentle prompts to capture intimate, candid moments between them—whether it was a quiet glance, a heartfelt embrace, or a joyful laugh. Another part that I truly loved was taking their picture at Old Town Harrisburg which gave the image a more traditional feel. The sun was setting so beautifully behind the old church there.

As they shared stories of their relationship and future together, I couldn’t help but feel how perfectly Día de los Muertos symbolized their love: full of life, vibrant, and rooted in tradition. The images reflected the powerful connection they share, surrounded by symbols of family, heritage, and love.

Why This Session Was Unforgettable

This engagement session was unforgettable because it was more than just photos—it was an experience. Through every shot, this couple beautifully showcased the importance of honoring their past while celebrating their future. The vibrant colors, meaningful details, and rich symbolism of Día de los Muertos brought an incredible depth to their love story, and it was truly an honor to capture that for them.

Tips for Your Own Cultural-Inspired Engagement Session

  1. Embrace Meaningful Details: Incorporate elements that hold personal or cultural significance. Small details, like traditional flowers, candles, or clothing, can add depth and beauty to your photos.

  2. Choose the Right Location: Find a location that feels authentic to the theme or tradition you’re honoring. It can help set the tone and provide a visually stunning backdrop.

  3. Make It Personal: Use the session to tell your story! Bring in elements that reflect who you are as a couple and what matters to you. It could be honoring family members, traditions, or even a specific style that resonates with you both.

  4. Have Fun with It: This is a celebration! Whether you’re laughing, dancing, or sharing quiet moments, allow yourself to fully enjoy this special time together.

If you’re looking to create a memorable, cultural-inspired engagement session that tells your story, I’d love to work with you! Let’s capture your unique love, heritage, and future in a way that’s true to you.

Happy Día de los Muertos, and here’s to celebrating love, life, and legacy!

 

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    Why Your First Dance Should Follow Your Grand Entrance

    The grand entrance at a wedding is one of those big, unforgettable moments. You and your partner step into the room as newlyweds for the first time, and everyone’s eyes are on you. It’s electric, exciting, and filled with joy. So, why not take advantage of that energy and dive straight into your first dance? Here’s why having your first dance right after your grand entrance can be a magical choice:

    1. Ride the Wave of Excitement

    Your grand entrance sets the tone for the rest of the celebration. The energy is high, the crowd is cheering, and everyone is already on their feet. This is the perfect moment to glide straight into your first dance while the excitement is at its peak. It makes the transition seamless and keeps the momentum going, making the moment feel even more special and cinematic.

    2. Break the Ice and Calm the Nerves

    Let’s be real—dancing in front of a crowd can be nerve-wracking. But guess what? The hardest part is already done. You’ve walked in, the spotlight is on you, and everyone is already cheering. By jumping right into your first dance, you can get the most nerve-wracking part of the reception over with quickly. Plus, that initial excitement can help ease any lingering jitters, allowing you to focus on each other and enjoy the dance rather than worrying about it all night.

    3. Create a Natural Flow for Your Reception

    Starting your first dance immediately after the entrance creates a smooth, natural flow to your reception timeline. It avoids the awkward “What happens next?” moment for both you and your guests. Your guests are already focused on you, making it the perfect opportunity to keep the spotlight and move effortlessly into a romantic moment. Afterward, you can transition into dinner, toasts, or even open up the dance floor, all without missing a beat.

    4. Capture Stunning, Emotion-Filled Photos

    Your photographer is primed and ready to capture those once-in-a-lifetime moments during your grand entrance. By having your first dance right after, you’re giving them the perfect opportunity to capture a sequence of high-energy, emotional shots. You’ll get photos filled with raw, genuine emotion—the joy on your faces as you walk in and the love between you as you share that first dance.

    5. Keep Your Guests Engaged

    Let’s face it—there’s always a bit of a lull in the wedding reception when guests are waiting for the next big moment. By going straight into your first dance, you keep the energy high and the guests engaged. It’s a way of telling your guests, “The party starts now!” Plus, it gives them a beautiful, intimate moment to enjoy before they get swept up in the festivities.

    6. Start the Celebration on a Romantic Note

    Your first dance is a beautiful, romantic highlight of the day. By starting the reception with this intimate moment, you set a loving tone for the entire evening. It’s a way to signal that this celebration is about the two of you and your unique love story. The rest of the night then becomes a continuation of that story, with your guests dancing, laughing, and celebrating alongside you.

    7. Maximize Dance Floor Time Later

    By having your first dance early, you free up the dance floor for later in the evening. Once the formalities are out of the way, you can spend more time on the dance floor with your guests without worrying about fitting in your first dance. This means more time for everyone to let loose and enjoy the party!

    In Summary

    Having your first dance immediately after your grand entrance is like catching lightning in a bottle. It’s a seamless, exciting way to keep the energy high, engage your guests, and start the celebration with a romantic flair. You’ll break the ice, set the tone for the evening, and create a series of unforgettable moments that flow naturally into the rest of your reception. So, why wait? Take that energy and turn it into a memory you’ll cherish forever.

    • Shirley Acres Wedding Photography
    • Star Wars Houston Wedding Photographer

     

    Capturing Love at the Orchard at Caney Creek

    A Beautiful Engagement Session with Sam & liz.

    Engagement photos are such a beautiful way to celebrate your love story before the big day, and when you pair that with a stunning location like The Orchard at Caney Creek in Wharton, TX, the result is pure magic. 🌿💍

    I had the absolute pleasure of photographing an incredible couple at this breathtaking venue—a pair of amazing women whose love for each other radiated through every shot. Their story, their connection, and the stunning surroundings made for an unforgettable session.

    What made this session even more special was the beautiful connection between these two women. Their love for each other was evident in every glance, every touch, and every laugh they shared during the session. It was a true honor to capture their bond and celebrate the diversity that makes love so unique and powerful.

    Engagement sessions are about more than just pretty pictures—they’re about telling your love story, and this couple’s story was one of strength, joy, and authenticity. Seeing their love shine in every frame reminded me of why I love what I do.

    The Orchard at Caney Creek in Wharton, TX, is truly a hidden gem, and it was the perfect place to capture the love between these two wonderful women. Their engagement session was full of laughter, joy, and tender moments, and I’m so grateful to have been a part of it.

    Tips for Your Own Engagement Session at The Orchard at Caney Creek

    1. Time it Right: The golden hour (just before sunset) is perfect for capturing those warm, glowing shots. The light filtering through the orchard trees during this time is pure magic! ✨
    2. Bring Your Personality: This couple brought along some personal touches that made their session unique, and it really showed in the photos. Whether it’s a favorite jacket, a meaningful prop, or just your vibrant personalities, let your love shine through!
    3. Relax and Have Fun: The best photos happen when you’re having a good time. Don’t stress about posing—just focus on each other, and the rest will fall into place. Trust me, your love will do all the work!

    About the Venue

    Nestled in the heart of Wharton, TX, The Orchard at Caney Creek offers the perfect mix of natural beauty and charm. The venue is surrounded by acres of lush trees, serene creeks, and gorgeous open spaces that create a dreamy backdrop for any engagement session. Whether you’re looking for a rustic vibe or something a bit more elegant, this location has it all.

    If you’re looking for a photographer who understands the importance of telling your unique love story, I’d love to chat with you. Whether you’re planning a session at The Orchard or another beautiful location, let’s create something unforgettable together! 📸

    Remember—your love is worth celebrating, and I’m here to help you do just that! 💕

     

     

    Engagement Photos at Eleanor Tinsley Park

    What I love about Eleanor Tinsley Park in Houston

    Eleanor Tinsley Park, located along the scenic Buffalo Bayou in Houston, is a fantastic location for engagement photos. With its stunning views of the Houston skyline, lush greenery, and vibrant atmosphere, it offers a perfect backdrop for capturing your love story. Here’s why you should consider taking your engagement photos with me at this beautiful park, along with a glimpse into a bright, fun, and unique session I had with Kriti and Rohan in April.

    The Beauty of Eleanor Tinsley Park

    1. Iconic Houston Skyline: The park offers breathtaking views of the downtown Houston skyline, providing a stunning urban backdrop that adds a modern touch to your engagement photos.

    2. Lush Greenery and Open Spaces: With its expansive lawns, beautiful trees, and well-maintained gardens, Eleanor Tinsley Park offers plenty of green spaces perfect for romantic and intimate shots.

    3. Diverse Scenery: From the picturesque Sabine Street Bridge to the tranquil waters of Buffalo Bayou, the park features a variety of scenic spots that add depth and variety to your photos.

    4. Vibrant Atmosphere: The park is often buzzing with life, offering opportunities for candid shots that capture the vibrant energy of Houston. Whether it’s joggers, families, or couples enjoying the outdoors, the lively atmosphere can add a dynamic element to your session.

    5. Unique Photo Opportunities: The park’s various landmarks, such as the impressive Eleanor Tinsley Park Pavilion and the beautifully designed trails, provide unique settings that can make your engagement photos stand out.

    A Memorable Session with Kriti & Rohan

    In April, I had the pleasure of photographing Kriti and Rohan’s engagement session at Eleanor Tinsley Park. Their session was filled with bright, fun, and unique moments that truly showcased their love and personalities.

    Bright and Colorful Shots: Kriti and Rohan chose outfits that popped against the park’s greenery and skyline. Their vibrant attire, combined with the park’s natural beauty, resulted in photos that were both lively and visually striking.

    Fun and Playful Moments: From playful whispers to candid laughter, Kriti and Rohan’s session was full of joy. The open spaces of the park allowed them to move freely, creating genuine and spontaneous moments that I captured through my lens.

    Unique Locations: We took advantage of the park’s diverse scenery, from the dramatic skyline views to the serene waters of the bayou. Each location provided a different backdrop, adding variety and uniqueness to their engagement album.

    Personal Touches: Kriti and Rohan brought along a few personal items, like a colorful picnic blanket and their favorite drinks, to incorporate into their photos. These personal touches added a special and intimate element to the session, making the photos even more meaningful.

     

    Eleanor Tinsley Park offers an idyllic setting for your engagement photos, and with my expertise, we can create a beautiful and unique photo session that you’ll treasure forever. Contact me today to schedule your engagement session and let’s capture your love story at this incredible Houston gem!

     

    Why I Host an Engagement Portrait Giveaway and How to Enter

    Planning a wedding is an exciting journey, filled with countless decisions and unforgettable moments. One of the most cherished parts of this journey is the engagement period—a time to celebrate your love and look forward to your future together. To help couples capture this special time, I run an engagement portrait giveaway. Here’s why I do it and how you can enter for a chance to win!

    Why I Run an Engagement Portrait Giveaway

    1. Celebrating Love Stories:
    Every couple has a unique love story, and I’m passionate about capturing these stories through my lens. By offering a giveaway, I get to meet and photograph diverse couples, each with their own special journey.

    2. Making Memories Accessible:
    Professional photography can be a significant investment, and not everyone has the budget for it. This giveaway helps couples who might not otherwise have the opportunity to get beautiful, professional engagement photos.

    3. Building Connections:
    I love connecting with new people and hearing their stories. This giveaway is a fantastic way to build relationships with like-minded couples, many of whom I continue to work with for their wedding and beyond.

    4. Spreading Joy:
    There’s something incredibly rewarding about seeing the joy on a couple’s faces when they receive their engagement photos. These images become cherished memories, and knowing I played a part in that is priceless.

    How to Enter the Engagement Portrait Giveaway

    Entering the giveaway is simple and straightforward. Here’s how you can participate:

    1. Follow Me on Instagram:
    Make sure you’re following my Instagram account @kellyurbanphotography. This way, you’ll stay updated on all the latest news, tips, and announcements.

    2. Like the Giveaway Post:
    Find the giveaway announcement post on my Instagram feed. Like the post to show your interest.

    3. Share Your Love Story:
    In the comments section of the giveaway post, share a brief version of your love story. Tell me what makes your relationship unique and why you’d love to win an engagement portrait session.

    4. Tag Friends:
    Tag at least two friends who are engaged or might be interested in the giveaway. The more people you tag, the higher your chances of winning!

    5. Optional: Share the Post:
    For an extra entry, share the giveaway post on your Instagram story and tag me so I can see it. This helps spread the word and increases your chances of winning.

    6. Fill out the form:
    Don’t forget to fill out the form on my website (Engagement Giveaway entry page) to complete your entry. This is the most important part of the giveaway.

    What You’ll Win

    The winning couple will receive:

    • A one-hour engagement portrait session at a location we decide on together.
    • A digital gallery of professionally edited images.
    • Full print rights to all your photos.
    • A fun and memorable experience capturing your love story.

    I can’t wait to read your stories and meet the lucky couple! Whether you’ve just started your engagement journey or are well on your way to planning your wedding, this giveaway is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate your love and create lasting memories.

    Giveaway ends on August the 15th, so don’t dilly dally!

    May the odds be ever in your favor!

    Past winners:

    Houston engagement photography rock wall gym

    A Dark Theatrical Wedding to Remember: Love from the Shadows

    Weddings are a reflection of a couple’s unique love story, and for Gill & Laura, their big day was nothing short of a gothic, theatrical masterpiece. Taking place at the intimate Art Factory theater with stadium seating, their wedding was a hauntingly beautiful spectacle that left their guests in awe.

    The Entrance: A Coffin and a Stage

    As the guests took their seats, the anticipation was palpable. The lights dimmed, casting eerie shadows across the stage. Suddenly, the music swelled, and the groom made his grand entrance, emerging from a coffin in a theatrical display that set the tone for the evening. It was a moment straight out of a gothic romance, with gasps and applause filling the theater.

    Melodies of Love: A Duet of the Heart

    The bride soon followed, gliding gracefully onto the stage. Instead of a traditional exchange of vows, the couple serenaded each other with heartfelt songs. Their voices intertwined in a beautiful harmony, expressing their love in a way words alone never could. It was an emotional performance that left not a single dry eye in the audience.

    A Dance to Remember

    After the musical vows, it was time for the grand exit. However, in true theatrical fashion, the couple had one more surprise up their sleeves. Instead of leaving, they turned to face each other and began to dance. Their friend, taking center stage, sang a soulful song that perfectly captured the essence of their love story. The dance was a beautiful, intimate moment that felt both timeless and deeply personal.

    A Theatrical Touch: Playbills and Skeletons

    Adding to the theatrical ambiance, guests received wedding playbills as they arrived, detailing the evening’s “performance” and the love story of the bride and groom. The lobby was adorned with skeletons and other gothic decorations, creating an immersive experience that transported everyone into the couple’s world.

    The Reception: Karaoke Night in Downtown Houston

    After the dramatic ceremony, the celebration continued at Dean’s, a downtown Houston bar, which also touts as being a haunted establishment. The mood shifted from gothic romance to lively fun. Guests enjoyed a night of karaoke, singing their hearts out and celebrating the newlyweds with laughter and song. It was the perfect ending to a day that balanced the dark and dramatic with light-hearted joy. I personally had a strange experience before leaving for the night which I will tout as the ghosts messing with me.

    A Unique Love Story

    This dark theatrical wedding was a testament to the couple’s unique vision and their commitment to making their big day a true reflection of who they are. From the coffin entrance to the karaoke reception, every detail was thoughtfully planned to create an unforgettable experience for all.

    For couples looking to break the mold and create a wedding that’s uniquely theirs, this celebration is proof that with a little creativity, your wedding can be as extraordinary as your love story.

    Capturing Your Unique Love Story

    If you’re planning a wedding that’s as unique and special as your love story, you need a photographer who can capture every moment in a way that truly reflects who you are as a couple. With an eye for detail and a passion for the extraordinary, I specialize in photographing weddings that break the mold and tell your story authentically. From dark theatrical ceremonies to whimsical, themed receptions, I’ll make sure your photos are as memorable and unique as your big day.

    Ready to make your vision come to life? Contact me today to discuss how we can capture your unforgettable moments. Let’s create wedding photos that you’ll cherish forever, perfectly reflecting the unique magic of your love.

    📸✨ Message me now to book your consultation! ✨📸

     

    Sandlewood Manor Wedding Photography

    A Red Wedding with a happy ending (because we all needed one!)

    Lukas & Tori’s stunning wedding at Sandlewood manor was one for the ages! I honestly don’t know how they did it. Everything was immaculately selected and matched perfectly(red is an IMPOSSIBLE color to match!) Their personality was so bright and bubbly, the red was a perfect choice against the staunch white of the venue.

    Because of the venue’s policy on real flowers inside their chapel, we had an abundance of real red rose petals after the ceremony that we were able to play with. It was so much fun getting the wedding party involved!

    After taking our time getting all the amazing portraits, we headed into the reception hall for the grand entrance and the first dance. The couple had a desert bar as well as a coffee & tea station (so cool!) and probably my most favorite part of their reception decor was the red telephone for guests to leave a sweet message for the couple.

    As the night winded to a close, Tori had an outfit chance then the couple had a private last dance while guests set up for the sparkler exit on the front drive. Lukas and Tori exited amongst friends and family through the sparklers flames to the cherry red Corvette.

    What a night! Check out the vendors & photos below

     

    Enchanted Rock Wedding

    Phillip & Erica’s Enchanted Rock wedding photos

    A few of weeks ago I showed you Phillip & Erica’s Brazos Bend engagement. This week, I have the pleasure of sharing their adventurous wedding photography at Enchanted Rock with you!

    You can make plans all you want and sometimes life will throw you curve ball after curve ball. It’s not about the curve balls, but how you handle them. Phillip and Erica were masters of their pitches!

    The couple love to hike and are super adventurous. They wanted to have a wedding at the top of Enchanted Rock. It’s a bit of a hike and on the wedding day, mother nature wanted them to have a magical misty wedding. We were informed by the park that they were going to close the trail to Enchanted rock so if we didn’t start climbing, we wouldn’t be allowed to have the wedding where Phillip and Erica wanted. It was a wet and sometimes slippery climb.

    My Husband and Spawn accompanied us (because I had surgery the week before and wasn’t allowed to carry anything). Andy not only helped carry my equipment but he hung back and made sure some of the guests at the back of the pack could make it up. The spawn happily chatted anyone and everyone’s ears off who was in his vicinity as we climbed.

    Everyone reached the summit without any issue and we were able to have one of the most romantic wedding ceremonies I’ve ever had the honor of being a part of. Though we were wet and maybe a little out of breath, the sight was unbelievable. The mist made it feel like we were thousands of feet in the air instead of a “mere” 425 feet.

    After the ceremony, we slowly (and I mean at a snail’s pace) made our way back down. The rock face at Enchanted rock isn’t the grippiest of rocks and it was slick from all the rain. We were surprised by Troop 999 who had come down to came from Plano. They noticed a wedding and wanted to organize a grand exit for the couple. They set up along the stairs and cheered as the couple passed.

    Phillip and Erica had a small cake they wanted to do a cake cutting at a picnic table before heading to their reception for brunch at a Western Edge Kitchen & Cocktails in Fredericksburg.

    What a wedding! A marriage sure to be filled with adventure & excitement!

    See some of their amazing photos below!

     

    A Southwest Houston wedding photographer
    Richmond, TX
    kelly@kellyurbanphotography.com    Kelly Urban Photography

    A Southwest Houston wedding photographer
    Richmond, TX

    A Southwest Houston wedding photographer
    Richmond, TX
    kelly@kellyurbanphotography.com    Kelly Urban Photography

    A Houston wedding photographer