follow us:

Tag Archives: texas

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!

 

0 comments
Add a comment...

Your email is never published or shared.

    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

     

    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!

     

    Houston JP Wedding

    Lee & Stephany’s JP wedding at the downtown Houston courthouse.

    Monday Andy and I took the spawn to the local courthouse to get his very first passport. That reminded me of this amazing JP wedding I shot downtown last year. The interesting thing about the JP weddings at the downtown courthouse is that they don’t happen in an actual court but in the rotunda. Family can line up along the spiral staircase or around the edge of the rotunda to watch.

    Before Lee and Stephany’s wedding, we took some family photos as well as couple portraits around the courthouse. I loved getting to meet their fur-baby and taking some photos of him as well.

    Check out the photos here!

     

    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.

    • Houston Waterwall Wedding Photos
    • Houston Wedding Photographer
    • Houston Wedding Photographer
    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.

    Nerdy wedding photography
    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.

    • Houston Lord of the Rings Wedding
    • Texas Ren Fest Wedding Photography
    • Lord of the Rings themed wedding
    • Nerdy wedding photographer houston
    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!

    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