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Halfway Through 2026

What We’ve Learned About Love, Laughter, and Real Connection

It’s been a wild year. Here’s what we’ve learned about capturing authentic, playful moments—and why your wedding photos should feel like you, not a pose.

Halfway Through 2026: What We’ve Learned About Love, Laughter, and Real Connection

We’re more than officially six months into 2026, and honestly? It’s been a beautiful blur of confetti, nervous laughter, and some truly unforgettable dance floors.

June has a way of making us pause and reflect. The year is half over, but wedding season is just heating up. And in between editing galleries and scouting new outdoor locations, we’ve been asking ourselves one big question:

What have we learned so far?

Spoiler alert: It’s not about the perfect lighting (though we love golden hour). It’s about the people.

Bride and groom posing on the historic staircase inside Historic Heights Firehouse in Houston, Texas

What’s Working (and What We’re Loving)

Playful Prompts > Stiff Poses

This year has confirmed what we already suspected: the best photos happen when you’re not thinking about the camera. We’ve doubled down on our playful prompts—the silly questions, the whispered jokes, the “walk toward me like you’re about to tell me a secret” moments. And you know what? The magic is undeniable.

One couple this spring started a full-on tickle fight during their engagement session. Another broke out into an impromptu karaoke duet. Those are the frames we cherish. Those are the frames you’ll cherish.

Documentary Storytelling is Here to Stay

authentic wedding day emotion

Couples are craving realness. Not the “stand here, tilt your chin, smile tight” approach. They want the in-between moments—the way you squeeze your partner’s hand during vows, the belly laugh when your best man forgets his speech, the quiet breath you take before walking down the aisle.

That’s documentary-style storytelling. And it’s not a trend. It’s a return to what actually matters.

Our Nerdy Couples Are Our FAVORITE

Okay, we’re biased. But the couples who bring their full, unfiltered selves—the ones who talk about D&D campaigns, debate Star Wars vs. Star Trek, and show up in mismatched socks—are the ones whose galleries make us tear up every single time.

Why? Because they’re not performing. They’re just… them.

What We’re Adjusting for the Rest of 2026

More Time for Connection

We’ve realized that our favorite sessions aren’t rushed. So we’re building in more buffer time—more space for you to breathe, laugh, and just be together. No clock-watching. No “hurry up and smile.” Just you, your person, and a camera that loves you.

Even More Input from YOU

We’re asking couples to send us their Spotify playlists. Their favorite books. Their inside jokes. The more we know about what makes you you, the better we can capture your story.

What This Means for You

If you’re planning a wedding or elopement for late 2026 or 2027, here’s our honest advice:

  • Book your photographer early. The best ones are filling up fast.
  • Prioritize what matters. Is it the flowers? The food? Or is it having photos that make you feel something every time you look at them?
  • Trust your gut. If a photographer doesn’t get excited about your cosplay idea or your hiking elopement vision, they’re not your person.
bride riding mechanical bull at texas wedding

Here’s to the Rest of 2026

We’re so grateful for every couple who’s trusted us with their story so far. And we can’t wait to meet the ones who are still dreaming up their perfect day.

Whether you’re planning an intimate backyard wedding, a mountain elopement, or a festival-inspired celebration with all your favorite people—I’m here for it!

Let’s make the second half of 2026 even more vibrant, playful, and beautifully you.

Ready to chat? Curious if your date is available? Shoot me a quick email or go for gold and schedule a quick 20-minute zoom meeting so we can work together to dream up your wedding.

Contact me

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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

 

Working on your wedding Timeline

A comprehensive guide to crafting the perfect wedding timeline.

Planning a wedding involves many details, and creating a wedding day timeline is crucial for ensuring everything runs smoothly. A well-structured timeline helps coordinate vendors, manage the flow of events, and keep everyone on schedule. Here’s a detailed guide to help you craft the perfect wedding day timeline.

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Key Components of a Wedding Day Timeline

1. Getting Ready (4-5 Hours)

  • Hair and Makeup: Schedule hair and makeup for the bridal party, usually starting with the bridesmaids and ending with the bride. Allow about 30-45 minutes per person.
  • Getting Dressed: Plan 30 minutes to an hour for the bride and bridesmaids to get dressed. You will want your bridesmaids to be dressed first if you want any photos of them helping you into your dress.
  • Photos: Allocate time for pre-ceremony wedding photos, including shots of the bride, bridal party, and immediate family as well as first looks (with your soon-to-be spouse or someone special in your family). This typically takes 1-2 hours.

Example Timeline:

  • 8:00 AM – Hair and makeup begin (don’t forget to eat breakfast & lunch)
  • 11:00 AM – Bride gets dressed
  • 11:30 AM – Pre-ceremony photos

2. First Look (30 Minutes)

  • If you opt for a first look, plan about 30 minutes for this special moment and the accompanying photos. You will want to have these done at least 30 minutes before guests should start arriving so we can stash you back in your hiding spot.

3. Ceremony (30 Minutes to 1 Hour)

  • Factor in time for guests to arrive and be seated. The ceremony itself usually lasts between 20-30 minutes but can vary depending on the type of service.

Example Timeline:

  • 1:00 PM – Guests begin to arrive
  • 1:30 PM – Ceremony starts
  • 2:00 PM – Ceremony ends

4. Post-Ceremony Photos (1-2 Hours)

  • Family photos, bridal party photos, and couple portraits are typically taken during this time. Ensure you have a list of must-have shots to keep things moving efficiently. To ensure this moves smoothly, make sure to designate someone to be your “family wrangler.” This is someone who knows your family and can make sure they are where they are supposed to be (in their seats waiting for their turn, in the photo…)

5. Cocktail Hour (1 Hour)

  • While photos are being taken, guests can enjoy cocktails and appetizers. This is also a good time for the couple to have a brief moment together before the reception.

Example Timeline:

  • 2:00 PM – Cocktail hour begins
  • 3:00 PM – Cocktail hour ends

6. Reception (4-5 Hours)

  • The reception timeline includes the grand entrance, first dance, dinner, toasts, cake cutting, and dancing. Here’s a breakdown of common reception events:

Example Timeline:

  • 3:00 PM – Reception begins with the grand entrance (you can shave time by going right into a first dance after your grand entrance)
  • 3:15 PM – First dance
  • 3:30 PM – Dinner is served
  • 4:30 PM – Toasts and speeches
  • 5:00 PM – Cake cutting
  • 5:15 PM – Dancing begins
  • 7:30 PM – Sneak out for sunset photos
  • 8:00 PM – Last dance
  • 8:15 PM – Couple’s send-off

Tips for a Seamless Timeline

  1. Communicate with Vendors: Ensure all vendors are aware of the timeline and their specific roles.
  2. Build in Buffer Time: Add extra time between events to account for any delays. If you know you have perpetually late friends/family (or if that’s you), make sure to account for that.
  3. Delegate: Assign a trusted person, like a wedding planner or coordinator, to keep the day on track.
  4. Be Flexible: Be prepared to adapt the timeline as needed. Weddings can be unpredictable, and a bit of flexibility can help keep the day stress-free.

Conclusion

A well-planned wedding day timeline is the backbone of a smooth and enjoyable celebration. By organizing the day’s events and allowing sufficient time for each activity, you’ll ensure that your wedding day is as stress-free and memorable as possible. Whether you’re working with a wedding planner or managing the details yourself, a clear and detailed timeline is your best tool for success.

For more detailed templates and examples, consider checking out resources like The Knot, WeddingWire, and Brides, which offer comprehensive guides and customizable timeline templates​ (Atlanta Magazine)​​ (All-American Atlas)​ .

Embracing Your Inner Geek: A Nerdy Guide to Wedding Bliss

Welcome, fellow nerds, to a celebration of love that’s as epic as your favorite saga and as magical as a critical hit… your wedding!

Today, we’re diving into the wonderful world of nerdy weddings—a realm where love, passion, and fandom collide in the most spectacular ways.

For too long, the term “wedding” may have conjured images of traditional ceremonies and cookie-cutter receptions. But fear not, fellow geeks, for your special day can be anything but ordinary. It’s time to let your nerd flag fly high and infuse your wedding with all the quirks, passions, and obsessions that make you who you are.

First things first, let’s talk themes. Whether you’re a die-hard Star Wars fan, a dedicated gamer, or a devoted bookworm, there’s a theme out there just waiting to be embraced. Imagine walking down the aisle to the sound of your favorite movie soundtrack (especially if it’s the instrumental version), exchanging vows in a setting straight out of a fantasy novel, or cutting the cake with a lightsaber. The possibilities are as limitless as the multiverse itself!

But it’s not just about the decorations and attire—it’s about infusing every aspect of your wedding with your unique personality and interests. From incorporating your favorite quotes into your vows to designing custom invitations inspired by your favorite fandom, the devil is in the details, and the nerdy possibilities are endless.

And let’s not forget about the entertainment! Why settle for a boring old DJ when you could have a live band playing all your favorite video game tunes? Or how about a cosplay photo booth where guests can dress up as their favorite characters and strike a pose? The key is to keep the fun and excitement going all night long, ensuring that your wedding is a celebration unlike any other.

But perhaps the most important thing to remember is that your wedding day is about more than just the theme or the decorations—it’s about celebrating the love and connection that you share with your partner. So whether you’re exchanging rings in a galaxy far, far away or saying “I do” in a language only fellow nerds can understand, never lose sight of what truly matters: each other.

So go ahead, fellow nerds, and let your imagination run wild. Your wedding day is your chance to embrace your inner geek, celebrate your passions, and create memories that are truly out of this world. So grab your lightsaber, don your wizard robes, and get ready for the nerdiest, most epic wedding celebration this side of the TARDIS!

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Look sexy, but still you!

How to look smexy in your photos, while still looking like you!

As you may (God I hope you have) noticed by now, I specialize in all things nerd. I love a good nerdy couple with their nerdy interests sprinkled, or shoved, into your face in their photos, their wedding decor, their whole being. One thing I can tell you I hear a lot from my couples, I always feel awkward, or I’m not really sexy.

Here’s what I want to ask you my nerd:

  • Is Hahn Solo sexy?
  • What about Princess Leia or Queen Amidala (especially when she’s kicking ass like in Attack of the Clones)?
  • Is there an Anime character you had/have a crush on?
    • As a kid, I crushed HARD on Quatre Raberba Winner…
  • Is Rhysand or Xaden sexy?
  • How about Flynn Rider?
  • What about a DND character you or someone else created?

The point is, those characters are sexy because they were heroic and confident. They were filled with passion and desire. Anyone can be heroic and confident! You can take your passions and personality and form them into a shell to enhance your sex appeal. Use it!

Here are some tips to using your passions to help you feel & look sexy in your photos:

  • Think about your favorite character you want to emulate and get into their stance, their gait their slouch… Then make it your own.
  • Be gentle while still feeling powerful.
    • Your hands & fingers should always be touching your partner delicately, but you should be using your strength to pull them tight against you.
    • Using a single finger (like your thumb or pointer) push your partners chin up to look at you.
  • Take deep confident breaths
    • One of my favorite things to do to help make an image sexy is to have my couple lean in to kiss painfully slowly. Take a breath with your mouth right before you kiss.
    • Take deep confident breaths with your mouth while nuzzling your partners neck or hair.
  • Be possessive of your partner (More passion!)
    • This person is yours. You would die for them. You would kill for them… hold them accordingly. Look into their eyes like you mean it. Kiss them as if it was your last kiss.

Take these suggestions and make them your own. I will always be here to help you look good, but you need to feel confident and madly in love with your partner to make your images hit that level of fire! Be confident in who you are! You are the only you there is in this world (and probably the next).

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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

 

Houston Field Engagement

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.

Take a look at the engagement photos below!

 

Houston’s Hottest Wedding Trends

A Glimpse into 2024 Wedding Celebrations

Happy 2024 Y’all!

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.

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  1. 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.

  1. 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.

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  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

Nerd Chic: The Top Wedding Trends of 2023

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.

  1. 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.

Star Wars Wedding Detail
  1. 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.

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  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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!

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Richmond, TX
kelly@kellyurbanphotography.comKelly Urban Photography

A Southwest Houston wedding photographer
Richmond, TX

A Houston wedding photographer