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Travis + Jenny’s elegant country wedding

Branded Hats, a Cow Named Brisket, and a Mechanical Bull

February 2025 | Big Sky Barn | Houston, Texas

If you think all weddings are the same, you haven’t met Travis and Jenny.

Their February wedding at Big Sky Barn wasn’t just elegant. It wasn’t just country. It was unforgettable — the kind of night where guests left with sore feet from dancing, sore cheeks from laughing, and at least one story about petting a miniature Highland cow named Brisket.

From branding their initials into hats during the ceremony to riding a mechanical bull, every detail felt like them. And that’s exactly what a wedding should be.

Here’s a look inside their day.

The Venue: Big Sky Barn

Tucked into the Texas countryside, Big Sky Barn (part of Walters Wedding Estates) was the perfect fit for Travis and Jenny. The warm wood tones, the rustic chandeliers, the wide-open skies — it had that rustic elegance Jenny was dreaming of.

February in Texas gave us crisp air and golden light. Cool enough for a jacket, warm enough for dancing under the stars.

The Ceremony: Personal Down to the Last Detail

Jenny’s aunt officiated — but not from an altar. She stood in the center of the aisle, right between Travis, Jenny, and their guests. The whole ceremony felt like a circle. Intimate. Inclusive. Like everyone was family.

Then came the moment no one will forget.

Travis and Jenny branded their initials into hats during the ceremony.

They heated the brand together, leaned in side by side, and pressed their initials into matching hats. It was a symbol of something permanent. Something they built together. And honestly? It might be the coolest wedding tradition I’ve ever seen.

The Style: Elegant Country

Jenny wanted “elegant country,” and the details delivered.

Soft, romantic florals from Design Haus. Hair and makeup by Muse that looked effortlessly beautiful. A classic cake from Wendy Galvan. And a family heirloom — a vintage Ford truck — for golden hour portraits and the get away ride.

That truck against the Texas sky? Pure magic.

The Reception: Where Things Got Wild

This is where Travis and Jenny really let loose — and their guests went right along with them.

The “Fat Heads”

The wedding party made their entrance with giant cutouts of Travis and Jenny’s faces — along with fake money launchers shooting cash into the air. Guests went wild. The couple grabbed each other’s fat heads at one point in the night and held them up on the dance floor. It was ridiculous, joyful, and exactly right for these two.

The Mechanical Bull

Yes, there was a mechanical bull at this wedding. Multiple guests took rides under the Texas night sky. Some stayed on longer than others. Everyone cheered.

And Then There Was Brisket

Brisket is a miniature Highland cow. Fluffy. Brown. Impossible not to love. He wore a little bow. Guests lined up to pet him. He didn’t dance or ride the bull, but he didn’t have to. He was perfect.

The Late-Night Hotdog Booth

After hours of dancing and bull-riding, you need fuel. Enter: hotdogs at midnight. Best decision they made.

The Portraits: Golden Hour + a Classic Ford Truck + Night shots on the bridge

After the ceremony, we stole Travis, Jenny, and their wedding party away for golden hour portraits. The light was that perfect warm gold — the kind you wait all year for. We knocked out the standard couple and wedding party shots as the sun dipped lower and lower.

Then came the truck.

The family’s vintage Ford truck joined us at the end of that session. Travis and Jenny leaned against the hood & in the truck.

But we weren’t done.

Later that night — in the complete dark — we headed to the venue’s wooden bridge. We pulled the truck up, lit the scene, and kept shooting. Something about the darkness, the old wood, and that truck made the photos feel moody and cinematic. A completely different vibe from golden hour, and just as unforgettable.

The Vendor Team

None of this would have happened without an incredible team behind the scenes:

The Takeaway

Travis and Jenny didn’t just throw a wedding. They threw a party that felt like them — from the branded hats to the mechanical bull to the cow that stole everyone’s heart.

This is what weddings should be: personal, joyful, and a little bit unexpected.

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    The Last Wedding of 2025: Lauren & Elisa’s Brunch & Disco Dream

    There’s something special about the final wedding of the year. It feels like a finale, a last chance to gather, dance, and celebrate love before the holiday hush sets in. And on November 23, 2025, Lauren and Elisa gave us a finale for the books.

    This wasn’t just a wedding. It was a brunch party, a disco fever dream, and a masterclass in personal, handmade, heart-swelling detail.

    Friends at the Mic

    From the very first moment, you could feel the difference. No rented officiant reading generic vows. Instead, their closest friends stood up and officiated with the kind of inside jokes, tearful sincerity, and joyful stumbles that only people who truly know you can deliver. It set the tone for the whole day: intimate, real, and full of laughter.

    Brunch Meets Boogie

    The theme? Brunch and disco. Yes, you read that right. Think mimosas and fluffy scrambled eggs next to a glittering disco ball. The morning light poured in as guests feasted on the most important meal of the day, and by the time the syrup had been wiped away, the beat had dropped. It was weird. It was wonderful. It was so perfectly them.

    A Library of Love

    The décor stopped me in my tracks. Old books—thrifted and salvaged—were stacked everywhere, their spines painted in soft, dreamy hues. It was literary, nostalgic, and deeply personal. And those painted books? They were the table numbers. Each stack proudly displayed a number in elegant brushstrokes, guiding guests to their seats in the most beautiful way possible.

    But the place cards? Absolute perfection. Tiny illustrations of their cats, each one inside a speech bubble—as if the cats themselves were announcing the guest’s name. Picture a fluffy tabby “saying” Sarah in hand-lettered script. It was whimsical, ridiculous in the best way, and so utterly Lauren & Elisa. Yes, cats. And yes, it worked perfectly.

    The Two Brides

    Let’s talk fashion. Lauren arrived in a sleek, show-stopping black jumpsuit—effortless, cool, and pure understated power. Beside her, Elisa was a vision in a stunning wedding gown draped in floral lace. Together, they looked like yin and yang, night and garden, complete magic.

    But the detail that broke everyone’s hearts? Handkerchiefs. And a hair bow. Both were made from scraps of one of their mothers’ wedding dresses. Elisa wore that bow in her hair like a crown of family history. Love passed down, stitch by stitch.

    The Dream Team of Vendors

    You can’t throw a brunch wedding without great food, and Houston’s own The Breakfast Klub delivered. (If you know, you know. The wings and waffles were legendary.) A close friend made the cake—delicious, and full of more love than any bakery could box. And the whole affair was held at Bien Venue, a space that somehow felt both airy and warm, perfect for disco lights and mid-morning champagne.

    The Last Dance of 2025

    As the final wedding of the year, Lauren and Elisa reminded us of something important. Weddings don’t have to look like magazines. They can smell like coffee and old books. They can sound like Donna Summer before noon. They can be officiated by friends, sweetened by homemade cake, and stitched together with a mother’s wedding dress.

    Lauren and Elisa didn’t just close out 2025. They threw open the doors and invited everyone in for one last, glorious dance.

    Here’s to the last wedding of the year—and the first day of the rest of their beautiful, brunchy, disco-loving lives.

    Congratulations, Lauren & Elisa. 🕊️📚🪩

    Vendors:

    A Love Story Washed in Luck

    Eduardo and Oneida’s rain-kissed celebration at The Grand Pines Reserve, complete with Talavera details, traditional dances, and a very special surprise.

    There’s an old saying that rain on your wedding day is good luck—a sign that your marriage will last, washed clean of any troubles before it even begins. If that’s true, then Eduardo and Oneida are set for an eternity of happiness!

    Their wedding day at The Grand Pines Reserve in August of last year, was nothing short of legendary. And honestly? It almost didn’t happen the way we expected.

    Hours before the ceremony, the sky opened up. It wasn’t just a sprinkle; it was a torrential downpour. While some couples might panic, Eduardo and Oneida stayed remarkably calm, trusting their team and the process. Nikki, their wedding coordinator, moved inside with the grace of a general, ensuring every detail was protected. And then, just as Oneida was about to walk down the aisle, the rain softened to a gentle drizzle. The pines glistened, the air smelled fresh, and a stunning string trio provided the most elegant soundtrack as they said “I do” under a sky that had just given them its blessing.

    Eduardo and Oneida’s wedding vision was a stunning blend of burnt orange, cream lace, and light sage—earthy, romantic, and perfectly them. The tables were adorned with Talavera terracotta pots bursting with flowers, paired with traditional Talavera-style chargers that brought a vibrant pop of Mexican artistry to every seat.

    The bride, Oneida, was a vision in lace and pearls. The low back of her dress added a touch of modern elegance to her timeless look, fitting her serene yet joyful demeanor perfectly.

    And then there was the party.

    These guests were treated to a trifecta of sound: a band and a DJ! The energy in the room was electric. During cocktail hour, while guests sipped their drinks, they enjoyed churros and Ricas Paletas from Adrian’s—a sweet preview of the incredible dinner to come. Adrian’s Mexican Street Food handled the catering, and let’s just say, no one left hungry. But the ultimate late-night surprise? A full-on Whataburger run, because nothing says “keep the party going” like Honey Butter Chicken Biscuits at midnight.

    The personal touches were everywhere. An old rotary phone sat in the corner, inviting guests to pick up and leave a voicemail message for the couple—a vintage twist on a modern guest book. I can’t wait for them to listen to those well-wishes on their first anniversary.

    But the absolute, show-stopping, jaw-dropping surprise of the night? The Houston Astros 2022 World Series trophy made an appearance. It was a strict “look, don’t touch” policy, but guests lined up to get their pictures taken next to the gleaming hardware. And yes, I even snuck in for a quick shot with the trophy, the happy couple, and my amazing second shooter. It’s not every day you get a World Series champ and a newlywed couple in the same frame!

    Of course, no celebration of Eduardo and Oneida’s love would be complete without honoring their Mexican heritage. During the reception, they took part in a traditional dance. The couple stood on chairs, holding hands above their heads to form an arch. First, the women formed a tunnel underneath their hands, dancing through to the music. Then, the men took their turn—and true to form, they tried their best to knock the groom off balance! Eduardo held on like a champ, but that didn’t save him. After the dance, his groomsmen grabbed him and tossed him into the air, a moment of pure joy and brotherhood that had the whole room roaring.

    Eduardo and Oneida, thank you for letting us witness your day. From the rain that blessed you to the trophy that amazed everyone, your wedding was a perfect reflection of your love story: strong, joyful, and full of beautiful surprises. Cheers to a lifetime of happiness!

    Vendor Love

    A Whimsical Brunch & Blooms Wedding

    Cameron & Lilly’s Secret Garden Affair at Ousie’s Table

    Picture this: dappled April sunlight filtering through the lush, ivy-covered walls of a hidden patio. The air is filled with the soft chatter of loved ones, the clinking of mimosa glasses, and the gentle, happy energy of a day just beginning. This was the utterly magical setting for Cameron and Lilly’s wedding, a celebration that perfectly blended Secret Garden romance with a joyful brunch.

    From the moment I arrived, it was clear this day would be uniquely them: elegant, personal, and filled with so much lighthearted joy and profound love—for each other, and for the creatures they share their lives with.

    The Venue: A Sun-Drenched Garden Oasis

    Ouisie’s Table in Houston was the ideal choice. Its renowned patio felt like a private, enchanted garden, an urban oasis that provided an intimate and vibrant backdrop. The rustic charm and overflowing greenery needed little enhancement to achieve the dreamy, garden-party vibe Cameron and Lilly envisioned.

    The Style: Chic Brunch Vibes

    Setting the tone for the entire day, the wedding party looked absolutely stunning in a palette of soft, earthy elegance. The groom and his groomsmen were sharp in handsome tan suits, perfectly complementing the natural, garden setting. And the bride? Lilly was a vision, carrying a gorgeous bouquet of soft pink flowers that popped beautifully against her gown and the sea of green around her.

    A Celebration of Love & Creatures Great and Small

    The brunch theme was an absolute delight! Guests were treated to a delicious spread of classic brunch favorites, making for a bright and celebratory daytime feast. But the personal touches didn’t stop there.

    Weaving beautifully through the garden theme was a heartfelt tribute to their pets, a true reflection of the couple’s love for their furry friends. From subtle nods in the signage to a special table, this personal detail added a layer of whimsy and charm that guests adored.

    The Most Meaningful Gesture

    Perhaps the most special detail of the day was one that extended their love beyond the wedding. In lieu of traditional wedding favors, Cameron and Lilly made a generous donation to Texas Animal Rehab in Crosby, TX.

    This rescue center holds a particularly special place in their hearts, as it is where their own beloved rescued animals came from. This act of kindness was such a beautiful and authentic reflection of their spirit, ensuring their celebration also helped other animals find their own happy endings. It was a perfect and deeply personal touch that their guests absolutely loved.

    The Ceremony: Intimate & Sun-Kissed

    Under a canopy of greenery and April sunshine, Cameron and Lilly exchanged heartfelt vows. The atmosphere was intimate and overflowing with love. You could feel the happiness radiating from them, a true testament to their partnership and shared compassion.

    Sweet Treats & Beats

    What’s a brunch wedding without an amazing cake? Ousie’s Table provided a beautifully simple yet elegant naked cake adorned with fresh flowers—a deliciously sweet end to a perfect meal.

    And providing the perfect soundtrack to this garden-party dream was the incredibly talented harpist, Emily Klein. Her elegant melodies floated through the air during the cocktail hour, creating a serene and magical atmosphere. As the celebration progressed, she seamlessly transitioned into playing beautiful, upbeat tunes that even got everyone up on the dance floor, proving the harp is truly an instrument for every moment. Her performance was absolutely flawless and unforgettable.

    A Day to Remember

    As the afternoon sun shone through the garden, it was clear this was a wedding unlike any other. It was filled with light, laughter, love, and a wonderful sense of personal style. Cameron and Lilly, thank you for letting me capture the pure joy of your day. Your wedding was a perfect reflection of you: beautiful, kind, and full of fun and compassion. Congratulations!

    The Wonderful Vendor Team:

     

    Essential Questions to Ask Your Wedding Photographer: Beyond the Price Tag

    How to Find the Perfect Wedding Photographer: Key Questions to Consider

    When planning your wedding, choosing the right photographer is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. While the price is a significant factor, it’s crucial to dig deeper to ensure you find a photographer who perfectly aligns with your vision and needs. Here are some essential questions to ask your wedding photographer that go beyond just discussing the cost:

    1. What is Your Photography Style?

    Understanding a photographer’s style is key to ensuring their work aligns with your vision for your wedding day. Whether you prefer traditional posed shots, photojournalistic storytelling, or fine art photography, make sure their style matches what you envision for your special day.

    2. Can We See a Full Wedding Gallery?

    It’s easy to be swayed by a photographer’s highlight reel, but to get a true sense of their work, ask to see a complete wedding gallery. This will give you insight into how they capture the entirety of the day, from start to finish.

    3. What Is Included in Your Packages?

    Different photographers offer various packages, so it’s important to know what’s included. Ask about the number of hours of coverage, whether a second photographer is included, and what extras are part of the package, such as prints, albums, or digital files.

    4. Do You Have a Backup Plan for Equipment Failure?

    Technical issues can happen, so it’s crucial to know if your photographer has backup equipment ready to go. This ensures that they can handle any unexpected problems without compromising the quality of your photos.

    5. How Do You Handle Unpredictable Situations, Like Weather or Venue Restrictions?

    No one can predict the weather or specific venue restrictions. Ask how the photographer adapts to such situations and how they ensure they can still capture beautiful photos regardless of the circumstances.

    6. How Many Weddings Have You Shot?

    Experience matters in wedding photography. Find out how many weddings the photographer has covered to gauge their level of expertise and their ability to handle the dynamics of a wedding day.

    7. Can You Provide References from Previous Clients?

    Talking to past clients can offer valuable insights into the photographer’s professionalism, work ethic, and overall satisfaction. Ask for references to hear firsthand experiences from couples who have worked with them.

    8. How Will You Coordinate with Other Vendors?

    Smooth coordination with your wedding planner, videographer, and other vendors is crucial for capturing the best moments. Inquire about how the photographer works with other professionals to ensure a seamless experience.

    9. What is Your Approach to Posing and Candid Shots?

    Photographers vary in their approach to posing and capturing candid moments. Clarify whether they prefer directing poses or focusing on candid shots, and discuss how they handle special requests.

    10. What is Your Editing Process?

    Editing can significantly impact the final look of your photos. Ask about the photographer’s editing process, how many photos you can expect, and the style of editing they use to ensure it aligns with your preferences.

    11. What is the Timeline for Receiving the Photos?

    Understand the expected timeline for receiving your photos. Photographers usually take time to edit and process images, so ask about how long it will take to get your final photos and in what formats they will be delivered.

    12. Are There Any Additional Fees or Costs?

    Be clear about any potential extra charges. This could include travel expenses, overtime, or additional prints and albums. Knowing about these upfront will help you avoid surprises later.

    13. How Do You Handle Copyright and Usage of the Photos?

    Discuss the rights to the photos and how you can use them. Ensure you understand the photographer’s policies regarding social media sharing, printing, and any limitations on the use of the images.

    14. What Happens if You’re Unable to Attend the Wedding?

    In the rare event that the photographer cannot attend your wedding, it’s important to know their contingency plans. Ask if they have a backup photographer or an alternative solution to ensure your day is still captured beautifully.

    Asking these questions will help you get a comprehensive understanding of your wedding photographer’s approach, experience, and services. By doing so, you’ll be better equipped to make an informed decision and ensure that your wedding photos are everything you’ve dreamed of and more.

    Learn more about the Wedding Experience when working with me.

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    Texas Renaissance Wedding

    Christopher & Maureen’s Texas Renaissance Festival wedding.

    As a kid growing up in the Houston area, I felt like we always managed to go to the Ren Fest at least once a year. I have vivid memories of wearing flower crowns and playing with wooden swords with some friends. The Texas Renaissance Festival holds a special place in my heart. I am so fortunate to be able to do one of my favorite things (take wedding photos) at one of my favorite places.

    The one thing I know working a Texas Renaissance wedding is that this place is just as special to me as it is to my couples, and Christopher & Maureen were no different.

    Maureen rode the carriage with her wedding party to the English Garden Wedding Chapel which is covered in lush green vines with an open air seating area. When the officiant got to the rings part of the ceremony, a falcon delivered them. This, I think, is one of the coolest benefits to having a wedding at the Ren Fest (that and the built in entertainment).

    The couple had a procession from the chapel to one of the reception areas in the back of the grounds. There, they did some traditional things like cake cutting & speeches. After their reception was over, most of the guests were free to wonder the grounds. Some of their closer friends and family followed along for the fun of wedding portraits. We went to some of the couple’s favorite places to take photos and just enjoy the beautiful day. They told me they went to the forge the day before to have some custom things made.

    We finished the day with a drink at the Pirate bar and a little jousting entertainment. Maureen’s sister is a professional jouster, so it was extra special.

    Congratulations to Christopher & Maureen!!

     

    Vendors:

    Venue & Food: Texas Renaissance Festival

    Wedding Gown: Inga Ezergale Designs

     

    Intimate Hindu/Western wedding

    Bishmaraj & Bethany’s intimate Hindu & backyard western wedding

    Bishmaraj & Bethany had an intimate wedding with family and friends in late Spring this year. They chose to have two ceremonies, a Hindu ceremony at Sri Meenakshi Devasthanam surrounded by a beautiful temple and an intimate western ceremony in their backyard.

    We arrived at the temple early to take some family photos and photos of the glowing couple in and around the temple before the ceremony started. The ceremony was filled with smiling faces, incenses & rice. After the first ceremony, we headed to the other side of town for the second act.

    At Bishmaraj & Bethany’s home, their friends and family enjoyed a light lunch while the couple changed into their second outfits & got their puppy into her Sari. Bethany’s brother officiated the second wedding ceremony under a wooden arch peppered in flowers.

    Because of the nature of the couple’s wedding ceremonies, they chose to take their couples portraits several weeks before their wedding. We visited a couple of Houston’s most popular places to get the portraits. I had a blast tooling around Houston. See the photos below.

     

     

    Vendors:

     

    Crystal Ballroom at the Rice Wedding in Houston

    Kyle and Lauren’s Downtown Houston Texas wedding at the Crystal Ballroom at the Rice.

    In February I had the pleasure of hanging out with the, now, Luong’s for nearly the entire weekend! I caught up with them at Kim Son’s Downtown for their epic rehearsal dinner. Kyle and Lauren honored Kyle’s heritage by wearing traditional outfits for their rehearsal as well as hiring some really awesome Lion Dancers!

    The following day, I caught back up with the amazing couple at the Rice. Lauren and her bridesmaids got ready in the bridal suite there while Kyle got ready at a nearby hotel with his grooms men. I nearly forgot until I was posting photos, that Lauren stitched some love notes into Kyle’s tie and jacket. What a sweet idea.

    The couple decided they wanted both a first touch and a first look. For the first touch, they read their vows to each other in private while holding hands and looking in opposite directions. I mean in near total privacy. All photography parties (including myself) hung out in a very loud room and took photos and video through the paned glass door like the paparazzi. We couldn’t hear a word they spoke to each other. After the first touch, we ushered Lauren and Kyle into different rooms and re-positioned them on the balcony for a gorgeous first look! It was one of the best first looks I’ve experienced. Kyle was in total awe of Lauren’s dress and had to take a look at every inch.

    After Kyle & Lauren had their first look, Lauren had a first look with her father. Kyle decided he wanted to do a first look with the bridesmaids, so we lined them up for a first look on the balcony. After that, the grooms men wanted a first look with Lauren (which was one of the most adorable first looks). We then shot a couple of group photos on the balcony and on the streets of Downtown Houston before catching a chartered bus to the church for the ceremony.

    Once back at the Crystal Ballroom, Kyle and Lauren were whisked to the bridal suite for a private dinner while their guests enjoyed a cocktail hour. This is probably one of the BEST things a couple can do for their reception. Once done eating, they got to take a private tour of their reception hall before their guests took their seats. During the night, the couple did a photo-dash, danced their hearts out and ate some amazing looking gluten-free cake (allergies are the best!…).

    At the end of the night, the guests sent the happy couple off in a haze of bubbles.

    Vendors:

     

    Ring bearer Alternatives

    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.

    1. 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!
    2. 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).
    3. Do you have a pet that’s special to you? Strap the rings to your pet and have someone walk them down the aisle.
    4. 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!
    5. 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!

    Flower man funny wedding photography

    Brookwood Community Wedding

    In December of last year I had the honor of capturing Landon and Stephanie’s wedding at the Brookwood Community church.

    This wedding held a special place in my heart, because Brookwood is special to me. Growing up, I had an uncle with special needs. He would have loved to be a part of the amazing community at Brookwood.

    The wedding day was much rainier than I would have loved but thankfully everything was held indoors. Stephanie and Landon got ready inside the church then had a first look in the foyer. I absolutely loved how involved the family was with the wedding.

    After the wedding ceremony, everyone headed to the Brookwood restaurant. One of the neatest parts of the reception was the station to take Polaroid photos under the mistletoe. Wedding guests partied and took photos throughout the evening. At the end of the night, the couple exited through colorful streamers.

    VENDORS

    Venue: Brookwood Community

     

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

    A Southwest Houston wedding photographer
    Richmond, TX

    A Houston wedding photographer