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Tag Archives: lgbtq

A Sun-Kissed Winter Wedding

Elizabeth & Samantha’s Love Story in San Antonio

There’s something undeniably magical about a winter wedding—the crisp air, the golden sunlight, and the warmth of love shining even brighter against the cool backdrop. Elizabeth and Samantha’s wedding day was no exception. On a chilly but sunlit January afternoon, the two brides said “I do” in the charming courtyard of the Estancia del Norte Tapestry Collection by Hilton in San Antonio, surrounded by their closest family and friends.

A Heartfelt Ceremony Under the Texas Sun

The ceremony was nothing short of dreamy. The courtyard, adorned with delicate winter florals and twinkling lights, set the perfect scene for their love story. Both brides made stunning entrances, each escorted down the aisle by their fathers—a touching moment that brought smiles (and a few happy tears) to everyone present. Adding an even more personal touch, Elizabeth’s father officiated the wedding, making the vows feel even more intimate and heartfelt.

As the couple exchanged rings and shared their first kiss as wives, the sun bathed the courtyard in golden light—a beautiful symbol of the warmth and joy they bring to each other’s lives.

A Reception Full of Fun & Games

After the ceremony, the celebration kicked into high gear! Elizabeth and Samantha wanted their reception to be as fun and lively as their love, so they incorporated interactive games for their guests to enjoy. From card games to pool, there was no shortage of laughter and friendly competition.

One of the most unique touches? Their guest book—a deck of playing cards featuring their engagement photos on the back. Guests signed individual cards, creating a keepsake the couple can cherish (and even use for game nights in the future!).

Love, Laughter, and Happily Ever After

As the evening wound down, it was clear that Elizabeth and Samantha’s wedding was a perfect reflection of their love: joyful, personal, and full of heart. From the emotional ceremony to the playful reception, every detail celebrated their journey together.

Here’s to a lifetime of happiness, adventure, and endless love for the beautiful brides!

Want to see more from Elizabeth & Samantha’s special day? Check out their wedding photos below!

 

Clare & Kara’s Wedding at The Bell Tower on 34th

Love was in the air on a beautiful evening in Houston as Clare and Kara exchanged vows in the breathtaking Candela Ballroom at The Bell Tower on 34th. Nestled in the heart of the city, this iconic venue provided the perfect backdrop for a celebration that was equal parts elegant, intimate, heartfelt, and unforgettable. From the moment guests arrived, it was clear that this wedding was going to be something truly special.

The Venue: A Dream Come True

The Candela Ballroom at The Bell Tower on 34th is known for its timeless charm and grandeur, and Clare and Kara’s wedding showcased the space at its absolute best. The ceremony took place under the ballroom’s stunning chandeliers, which cast a warm, romantic glow over the room. As the sun set outside, the ballroom felt like a world of its own—a space filled with love, joy, and celebration.

The reception was held in the same ballroom, which was transformed into a wonderland of soft pastels, gold accents, and cascading floral arrangements. The couple’s attention to detail was evident in every corner, from the personalized table settings to the custom dance floor that bore their initials. It was a space that perfectly reflected their love—beautiful, thoughtful, and full of joy.

The Ceremony: A Celebration of Love

Clare and Kara’s ceremony was a heartfelt celebration of their journey together. As they walked down the aisle together, surrounded by their closest friends and family, there wasn’t a dry eye in the house. The couple made a bold and personal statement by wearing matching rainbow Converse sneakers, a nod to their vibrant personalities and shared love. It was a small but powerful detail that perfectly captured their spirit.

One of the most touching moments came when Clare’s brother (and Kara’s brother-in-law) performed a song he had written specifically for the couple. His heartfelt lyrics and soulful voice filled the room, bringing tears to everyone’s eyes. It was a beautiful tribute to their love and the bond they share with their family.

The Reception: A Night of Joy and Celebration

After the ceremony, the celebration kicked into high gear. Guests were treated to a cocktail hour in a stunning outdoor space while the ceremony hall turned into the reception hall.

The reception was a night of non-stop dancing, laughter, and celebration. The newlyweds shared their first dance to a song that held special meaning to them, and soon after, the dance floor was packed with guests showing off their best moves. The DJ kept the energy high, mixing classic hits with modern favorites, ensuring that everyone—from grandparents to college friends—had a blast.

Sweet Treats and Special Guests

No wedding is complete without dessert, and Clare and Kara’s celebration did not disappoint. Alchemy Bake Lab was on hand with an array of stunning and delicious treats, from delicate glittering cake balls to vibrant rainbow rice crispy treats. The dessert table was a work of art, and guests couldn’t resist sampling every sweet offering.

Another heartwarming detail of the evening was the presence of several of Kara’s students, both past and present. As a beloved teacher, Kara has touched countless lives, and it was incredibly moving to see so many of her students there to celebrate her special day. Their presence was a testament to the impact she has had on their lives and the love and respect they have for her.

A Love That Shines Bright

Clare and Kara’s wedding at The Bell Tower on 34th was more than just a celebration; it was a testament to the power of love and the joy that comes from sharing it with the people who matter most. Here’s to a lifetime of happiness for this incredible couple—may their love continue to shine as brightly as it did on their wedding day.

If you’re planning your own wedding and looking for a venue that combines elegance, charm, and a touch of magic, The Bell Tower on 34th is a must-see. Clare and Kara’s special day is proof that it’s the perfect place to say “I do.”

 

 

Rachel & Krista’s Ronin Art Studio Wedding

Wedding Photography from Rachel & Krista’s Roinin Art studio wedding.

I love that intimate weddings are becoming a thing. I especially love that those intimate weddings are being held at unique places like art studios, museums and gardens. Rachel and Krista’s wedding was perfect. I especially loved the plum colored suit Rachel chose to wear. The sunshine was streaming into the art studio through the high windows and the skylights shining resplendently onto the couple.

Check out the wedding photos below & don’t forget to check out all of the amazing vendors who were a part of this amazing day.

Vendors

Venue: Ronin Art Studio

Wedding Coordinator: Moonstruck Events

Hair: Nicole Anne Hair Studio

Makeup: NxN Makeup Artistry

Florals: Blooms by Mela

Linens & Furnature & Bakedrop: All the Pretty Things

Wedding Dress: Modern Affinity

 

Logan & James’s Lakeside Austin Wedding

It was a beautiful afternoon in Austin on Lake Travis when Logan & James promised eternity to each other. The couple chose to rent some property with a two story dock for their intimate wedding.

The wedding party gathered and prepared in the house that overlooked a small canyon and the lake. After hiking up and down the equivalent of 21 floors (I had to check my fitbit), the wedding party was seated and ready. James and Logan walked down the isle escorted by their mothers. What a special pre-Mothers Day Gift!

The wedding was helped put on by all the couple’s friends and family. They arranged flowers and officiated the wedding. Their officiant, a friend, was funny and poised. She was the best officiant I have had the pleasure of listening to.

After the ceremony, the guests cleared the deck so they could party and dance on the water. The joy was contagious as Logan and James danced well into the night.

Congratulations!!

Vendors

Casa Costa Bake Shop

Freda’s Seafood Grille

Ashley & Sonya’s Downtown Houston Engagement Portraits

Ashley & Sonya told me they were big theater aficionados when I first met them. That sparked the idea of taking their engagement photos around the beautiful architecture in the Houston theater district. I absolutely love how the photos turned out. We ended our Houston engagement portrait trip at Eleanor Tinsley park. The sunset caused a the skyscrapers downtown to glow this gorgeous orange and pink tone.

Alex & Erin’s Winter Wedding at Oak Tree Manor

It was so cold and the temperature was beginning to drop as the snowpocalypse was making it’s way to Houston. Alex & Erin were getting ready in different rooms in the cute little bridal cottage at Oak Tree Manor.

Guests grabbed blankets, beers and pride flags at the entrance to the ceremony. They wrapped themselves up in rainbow, unicorn and many more fun blankets as they anxiously awaited the ceremony.

Alex & Erin were grinning ear to ear as the wedding ceremony started. the officiant joked that It was fitting that Alex & Erin had their wedding on such a cold night because their first date was Cryotherapy.

The happy couple made their grand entrance down the spiral staircase right into their first dance, which was magical. Whispering tendrils of smoke licked Alex & Erin’s ankles as they glided around the dance floor. After the first dance, the couple did a cute TikTok dance with their boys.

At the end of the night, the guests braved the cold again to light floating lanterns.

What a magical wedding! I am so grateful I was able to capture it for the amazing couple.

 

 

Vendors

 

Venue: Oak Tree Manor

Cake: Virginia’s Bakery

Flowers: HEB Blooms

Hair & Makeup: Rene Renee

DJ: Southern Style Entertainment

Videographer: Classic Wedding Photographers

Steph & Jess’s Wedding Celebration at White Oaks on the Bayou in Simonton Texas

Jess & Steph had an intimate wedding in December of 2018, but decided to celebrate their marriage with friends and family this August.

The party was a good ol’ country get together at White Oaks on the Bayou with BBQ, boots and a country band. The Cody Ray Henry Band played a wide variety of music from country to 70’s rock music. People were two steppin’ line dancin’ and all around bogeying (yeah I went there…).

Close to the end of the night, all of the Aggie’s in the room (which was more than half of the room) circled around the dance floor for the Aggie War hymn.

 

Vendors

Venue: White Oaks on the Bayou
Cake: Sassy Apron
Hair: Jenny Arellano @ Bellus Salon
Makeup: Bespoken Beauty
DJ: Cody Ray Henry Band
Linens: Well Planned Events
Catering: Swinging Door

Ryan & David’s Houston Memorial Park Arboretum Engagement Portraits

It’s amazing to think that a man from Utah and a man from Mexico can travel hundreds of miles from home and end up finding love. I enjoyed getting to know Ryan & David as we were taking photos. I learned that Ryan came to Houston to work in the medical district while a job opportunity in Victoria brought David to Texas. Growing up in a large city in Mexico, David knew the city life was what he really craved, so he moved to Houston. The two met and immediately hit it off. It wasn’t long before Ryan knew he had found the love of his life and had to make it official.

The Proposal:

Ryan wanted to propose to David like they do in movies. He took David to  the Phantom of the Opera play. Before the play began, Ryan had planned on dropping an engagement ring in David’s drink. Out of the blue, David dropped some gummy-bears into his drink before Ryan could hatch his plan, which threw Ryan off. He went ahead with the plan and dropped the ring into David’s glass. The happy couple will be getting married in May this year.

I showed up to the Arboretum early to scout out a few trails and walked the “inner trail” which was a lot longer than I thought. Eventually, I had to pull up a map of the park on my phone to make sure I didn’t get lost. While I waited for the couple to arrive, I noticed a possum and a cat just hanging out outside the nature center at the park. David and Ryan showed up a little bit later with their adorable puppies. The cloud cover finally cleared and the temperature was chilly, but not uncomfortable. We had a blast chatting and exploring the park during Ryan and David’s engagement portrait session.

Top 10 LGBTQ Wedding Photos

Pride Month is here!

As a kid, I was always obsessed with rainbows, I even had a “rainbow blankey” that I couldn’t sleep without. Actually, I still love them, and get a little squirmy when I see the colors out of order or hear someone having to google the order of the rainbow. What does that have to do with Pride month, very little except for all of the rainbow flags that’ll be flying high.

Andy and I love taking Tristan out to the pride parade every year. Everything is so colorful and the people are always super nice. In fact, one of my couples actually met at the Houston Pride Parade. Boy is it always HOT, though. If you’re going, make sure to bring water and a hat. Houston Pride Parade is June 23rd from 12pm – 7pm.

Probably the coolest thing about Pride month is how unabashedly real people are. I find the LQBTQ community is the most true-to themselves community in the first place, but more so during the month of June.

Take a look at some of my favorite LGBTQ weddings as I try to get  True to your heart from Mulan out of my head.

 

 

 

Vendors

Moffit Oaks
Community Events Hall
Audio Mobile DJs
St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church

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

A Southwest Houston wedding photographer
Richmond, TX

A Houston wedding photographer