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A Rustic Vintage Wedding at Cedar Silos

An Intimate, Handcrafted Celebration Filled with Love & Personal Touches

There’s something incredibly special about a wedding where every detail is infused with personal meaning—and Sapora and Colton’s big day at Cedar Silos was exactly that. From their Bumble-bee-themed decor (a sweet nod to how they met) to the handmade antique brooch bouquet, this celebration was a beautiful blend of rustic charm and vintage elegance.

A Love Story That Started on Bumble

Sapora and Colton’s journey began with a swipe—a modern love story that led to a timeless commitment. To honor their meet-cute, they incorporated subtle bumble bee accents throughout their decor, from table settings to signage. It was a playful yet meaningful touch that had guests smiling.

Handcrafted Vintage Touches

The couple, along with their family, poured their hearts into creating a warm, intimate atmosphere. The bride described her vision as “rustic and vintage with lots of earth tones,” and the result was stunning.

  • The Bouquet: Instead of fresh flowers, Sapora carried a one-of-a-kind bouquet made from antique brooches—each piece carefully sourced from thrift stores and antique shops by her family. The mix of bronze, silver, and multicolored beading shimmered beautifully under the soft indoor lighting.
  • DIY Decor: From hand-painted signs to repurposed vintage jars, every element felt intentional and personal. The couple’s hands-on approach made the space feel even more heartfelt.

A Cozy Indoor Celebration

Held inside the charming Cedar Silos, the ceremony was intimate, with only 50 of their closest family and friends in attendance. The smart casual dress code kept things relaxed yet refined, perfectly matching the understated elegance of the venue.

Sweet Treats from The Gluteny Bakery

No wedding is complete without cake, and The Gluteny Bakery delivered a gorgeous dessert that fit the theme flawlessly. With delicate detailing and a rustic vibe, it was almost too pretty to eat—almost.

Final Thoughts

Sapora and Colton’s wedding was a testament to what happens when love, creativity, and family come together. Every detail—from the Bumble bees to the heirloom-worthy brooch bouquet—told a story. It was an honor to capture such a heartfelt day, filled with laughter, joy, and so much love.

Congratulations, Sapora & Colton! May your marriage be as beautiful and unique as your wedding day.

Want to see more from this rustic vintage wedding? Check out the full gallery below!

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5 Wedding Photo Mistakes

5 Wedding Photo Mistakes Houston Couples Regret (And How to Avoid Them)

Your wedding photos are forever—but many Houston couples end up disappointed because of avoidable mistakes. From bad lighting to missed moments, these errors can’t be fixed after the big day.

As a Houston wedding photographer, I’ve seen it all. Here are the top 5 photo mistakes couples make (and how to dodge them) so your memories stay flawless.

Mistake #1: Not Considering Houston’s Harsh Lighting

Midday sun in Houston creates unflattering shadows, squinting, and sweat. Golden hour (just before sunset) is ideal—but many couples don’t plan around it.

✅ How to Avoid It:

  • Schedule portraits 1–2 hours before sunset.
  • If you must shoot midday, pick shaded areas (like The Arboretum or Discovery Green).
  • Ask your photographer about flash/lighting techniques for harsh conditions.

📸 Pro Tip: Check out my Houston Wedding Photo Timeline Guide for ideal lighting times.

Mistake #2: Not Allocating Enough Time for Portraits

Many couples underestimate how long great photos take—especially when juggling family shots, bridal party pics, and romantic portraits. Rushed timelines lead to:

  • Missing golden hour light (the most flattering time for photos).
  • Stressed expressions instead of natural joy.
  • Fewer creative shots because “we ran out of time.”

✅ How to Avoid It:

  • Block 30–60 minutes (total, not all at once) for couple portraits (trust me, you’ll want these!).
  • Schedule family photos immediately after the ceremony to keep things efficient.
  • Work with your photographer on a realistic timeline—I include this in my planning guide!

💡 Pro Tip: Even if you skip a “first look,” a short buffer between events ensures you get dreamy, unhurried photos.

Mistake #3: Overlooking Indoor Backup Plans

Houston weather is unpredictable. Outdoor ceremonies can turn into rainy scrambles, ruining photo plans.

✅ How to Avoid It:

  • Book venues with pretty indoor options (The Astorian, The Bell Tower).
  • Have clear umbrellas or stylish wraps on standby.
  • Trust your photographer to find creative solutions (moody rain shots!).

Mistake #4: Not Vetting Your Photographer’s Full Portfolio

Some photographers only show perfect highlights, hiding inconsistent editing or missing key moments (like aisle walks or speeches).

✅ How to Avoid It:

  • Ask to see 2–3 full wedding galleries (not just a “best of” blog post).
  • Look for:
    • Emotional moments (tears, laughter).
    • Low-light performance (reception dancing shots).
    • Editing consistency (no weird color casts).

🔍 Want to see real, Houston weddings I’ve shot? Email me and I can get those to you!

Mistake #5: Treating Photos as an Afterthought

Many couples:

  • Don’t allocate enough time for portraits.
  • Forget to communicate must-have shots (like family heirlooms or cultural traditions).
  • Assume “we’ll figure it out day-of.”

✅ How to Avoid It:

  • Share a shot list with your photographer (I include this in my planning guide!).
  • Block at least 30–60 minutes for couple portraits.
  • Discuss unique details (e.g., “We’re doing a Vietnamese tea ceremony—can you capture it?”).

Final Tip: Relax and Be Present

The best photos happen when you’re not stressed about photos. Trust your photographer, soak in the day, and let us handle the rest.

Want a Stress-Free Photo Experience?
👉 Let’s chat! Fill out my contact form to check my availability & ask formy free Houston Wedding Photo Checklist.

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Nail your “Getting Ready” Wedding Photos

How to Nail the Perfect “Getting Ready” Photos on Your Wedding Day

Your wedding day is filled with countless precious moments, but it all begins with the excitement and anticipation of getting ready. The “getting ready” portion of your day sets the tone for what’s to come and offers some of the most genuine, heartfelt moments to capture on camera. From the quiet nerves to the bursts of laughter with your wedding party, these moments deserve to be preserved beautifully. Here are some tips to make sure your “getting ready” photos turn out just as magical as the rest of your big day.

Houston Wedding Photographer1. Choose a Well-Lit Space

Natural light is a photographer’s best friend, especially during the getting-ready portion of the day. When selecting your space, opt for a room with large windows and plenty of natural light. The soft, glowing light from the sun will create a flattering, dreamy atmosphere that elevates your photos. If natural light isn’t available, discuss lighting options with your photographer in advance to ensure the space is well-lit and photo-ready.

2. Keep the Space Tidy

A cluttered room can be distracting in photos, taking the focus away from you and your special details. Before your photographer arrives, take a few minutes to tidy up. Tuck away bags, empty coffee cups, and other miscellaneous items. A clean, organized space allows your photographer to capture the beauty and intimacy of the moment without distractions. I find it helpful to bring some tote bags or something large to put all of your clutter in.

3. Have Your Details Ready

Your wedding day is filled with tiny, meaningful details that tell your story. Help your photographer capture these by gathering them in one spot ahead of time. Consider including:

  • Your rings (engagement ring and wedding bands)
  • The wedding invitation suite
  • Your shoes
  • Jewelry and accessories
  • Perfume or cologne
  • Hairpieces or veils
  • Any sentimental items (a handkerchief, heirloom, or special keepsake)

Having these items prepared ensures your photographer can create stunning detail shots that complement the rest of your wedding gallery.

4. Coordinate Outfits for Your Wedding Party

Matching robes, pajamas, or coordinated colors for your bridal party can elevate the look of your getting-ready photos. Not only does this add a cohesive aesthetic to your gallery, but it also makes for adorable, Instagram-worthy moments. Choose something comfortable and stylish that fits your wedding’s vibe—whether it’s floral robes, silk PJs, or cozy sweaters.

5. Enjoy the Moment

The best photos often come from authentic, candid moments. Laugh with your bridesmaids, toast with champagne, dance around the room—these are the memories you’ll cherish forever. Don’t be afraid to let your emotions show; whether you’re teary-eyed or laughing uncontrollably, these genuine reactions will shine through in your photos.

Houston Wedding Photographer

6. Build in Extra Time

No one wants to feel rushed on their wedding day. Give yourself plenty of time to enjoy the getting-ready process. This buffer allows you to soak in the excitement, spend quality time with your loved ones, and give your photographer the opportunity to capture all the special details and moments without feeling hurried.

Bonus Tip: Communicate with Your Photographer

Share your vision with your photographer ahead of time. If there are specific shots you’re dreaming of—like your mom zipping up your dress or your maid of honor helping you with your veil—let them know so they can be sure to capture these moments.

Why “Getting Ready” Photos Matter

The getting-ready portion of your wedding day is about more than just hair and makeup. It’s about the quiet moments of reflection, the laughter shared with your closest friends, and the anticipation of walking down the aisle. These photos encapsulate the emotions, details, and energy of the day, serving as a reminder of the love and joy that surrounded you.

By planning ahead and following these tips, you’ll ensure that your getting-ready photos are just as stunning and meaningful as the rest of your wedding day gallery.

Ready to capture your magical moments? Let’s make your wedding day unforgettable! Contact me to chat about how I can help preserve every special detail.

 

  • Texas Renaissance Festival
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Intimate Wedding at The Venu in Tomball, TX

Celebrating Love That’s Stood the Test of Time

Love stories are all unique, but every once in a while, you get to capture one that’s been years in the making. This was the case for this wonderful couple who celebrated their wedding at The Venu in Tomball, TX. With a foundation built over years together and the warmth of family surrounding them, their wedding day was an unforgettable celebration of a love that’s grown deeper with time.

A Venue for Love: The Venu in Tomball, TX

Nestled in the heart of Tomball, The Venu is a charming space that offers the perfect mix of elegance and intimacy. With its neutral tones, inviting architecture, and warm atmosphere, it provided a beautiful canvas for a wedding day that felt like a true celebration of both past and future. It’s proximity and direct connection to a cute little coffee shop also helped with crowd control during the space transformation after the ceremony. The couple’s chosen decorations and personal touches filled the space with warmth and love, creating an atmosphere that perfectly reflected their long journey together.

A Celebration of Family and Connection

Unlike many weddings that signify the beginning of a new chapter, this one felt like the joyous celebration of a journey that has already begun. Having been together for years, the couple had already started a family, making the day even more meaningful. Seeing their children involved in the ceremony was a beautiful reminder of the love they’ve built over time.

One of the highlights was a special family-first entrance: instead of the usual solo walk down the aisle, Brent walked down the isle with their son and Amber walked down with there daughters. It was a simple yet profound moment that symbolized how love grows and evolves, bringing people together in unexpected and wonderful ways.

Personal Touches and Moments to Cherish

Throughout the day, small, meaningful details spoke volumes about the couple’s journey and values.

As the night continued, friends and family gathered to toast, laugh, and celebrate alongside them. The reception was intimate but lively, with their closest loved ones dancing, reminiscing, and joining in to celebrate a marriage that felt both fresh and time-tested.

Photography Highlights: Capturing Timeless Love

Photographing a couple who have spent so many years together is always a special experience. The ease between them, the shared glances, and the little inside jokes that only come from a relationship as deep as theirs made every shot something unique. Their love story didn’t need grand gestures; it was visible in the quiet moments, in the laughter with their children, and the shared joy with friends and family.

For this couple, the wedding day wasn’t the start of a new chapter but rather the next step in a story that had been written over years of love and commitment. Capturing those moments was a true honor, and The Venu in Tomball, TX provided the perfect setting to celebrate this incredible love story.

Final Thoughts

This wedding was a beautiful reminder that love is a journey, one that can take many shapes and forms over the years. When two people choose to celebrate a love that’s grown through seasons, experiences, and life itself, it’s nothing short of magical. Congratulations to the happy couple—may the next chapter of their story be as full of love, laughter, and memories as the years that have brought them to this moment.

 

Vendors:

The Venue

Frank’s Bakery

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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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!

 

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.

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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!

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2023 Wedding Trends I’m excited for!

Here’s a list of the 2023 wedding trends I’m excited for.

Color! Even as a child, I’ve been obsessed with color. I memorized the order of the rainbow before I was in elementary school. I’m also flabbergasted when adults don’t know the order (or what primary colors mixed together make what secondary colors). Color in weddings is making a big & bold statement. It’s in bouquets, in bridesmaids gowns and in the decorations. Be bold with your color choices. Consult a color wheel to help you pick the perfect harmonic balance.

Colorful wedding dress: I have always loved a wedding dress that stands out from the norm. Some of my ALL-TIME favorite weddings dresses either had a pop of color, like a floral pattern, or were a solid color instead of white. Be fun and bold… who cares what your stuck-in-the-mud relatives think. It’s your wedding, own it!

Custom Dance floor: This year, couples are opting to deck out their dance floors. Maybe you have an awesome marquee lighting your space or you have a flower bedecked disco ball hanging from the ceiling. If the dance floor is a place you want to be and you want your guests to join you, make it fun, flirty & memorable.

Private Last Dance: Still holding strong from last year. The private last dance is one of my favorite things to shoot. I love that the couple gets one last moment enjoying their wedding night in a quiet space with only their DJ & Photographers for company. One of my favorite things to do during private last dances is to move through the back of the room framing the couple with their dark & empty tables.

Sustainability: I’ve always been a tree-huger and can see how weddings can become wasteful. Some of my favorite things couples have done include seeds and living plants as wedding favors. Some things you can do to have an Eco-friendly wedding — use Eco-friendly invitations & decor, encouraging guests and wedding party to carpool or use a bus to transport guests, use biodegradable confetti for your grand exit, don’t use single use dinnerware and glassware

Capes! Seriously, capes are in this year. I LOVE this for us! I’ve seen brides pin muslin to their gown with gorgeous brioches to make a cape. I’ve also seen some awesome capes with groom’s attire. There’s a very fine line from elegant to gimmicky with capes, however. Be careful & use an editorial eye.

Embroidered veils: This is such a neat idea. I’ve had a couple of brides do this and it really added to the entire look. Make sure to include colors and flowers you intend on having at your wedding to really pull the whole look together.

Comfy & cute shoes: Who says fashion has to be pain? Wear those converse at your wedding. You can really spruce up your sneakers by embroidering them, bedazzling them or personalizing them in any way. Do you have a really comfortable pair of boots? Wear those! As cute as the shoes are, if you’re ditching them halfway through the night, were they worth it?

 

What are your thoughts? What trends are you really excited for and what trends are you ready to disappear?

Arnold & Maritza’s The Springs in Angleton Wedding

Arnold & Maritza’s wedding at The Springs Event Venue in Angleton, TX.

Just before Thanksgiving, Arnold & Maritza gathered all of their friends and family to witness their marriage. The theme for the wedding was Fall & Thanksgiving! The couple chose a beautiful rust orange & sage green color pallet & offered their guests traditional Thanksgiving pie!

Arnold & Maritza chose to have a first touch before their ceremony. We found a quiet place where they could hold hands and talk quietly to each other. After the first touch, Arnold lined up with his groomsmen and Maritza shared a first look with her father.

The couple and their guests danced well into the night!

Vendors:

 

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Richmond, TX
kelly@kellyurbanphotography.comKelly Urban Photography

A Southwest Houston wedding photographer
Richmond, TX

A Houston wedding photographer