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Travis + Jenny’s elegant country wedding

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

February 2025 | Big Sky Barn | Houston, Texas

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

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

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

Here’s a look inside their day.

The Venue: Big Sky Barn

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

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

The Ceremony: Personal Down to the Last Detail

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

Then came the moment no one will forget.

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

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

The Style: Elegant Country

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

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

That truck against the Texas sky? Pure magic.

The Reception: Where Things Got Wild

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

The “Fat Heads”

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

The Mechanical Bull

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

And Then There Was Brisket

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

The Late-Night Hotdog Booth

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

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

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

Then came the truck.

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

But we weren’t done.

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

The Vendor Team

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

The Takeaway

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

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

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    Top 5 First Look Moments That Will Make You Cry (And Why You Need One!)

    As a Houston wedding photographer, I’ve seen countless emotional moments on wedding days—but nothing compares to the raw, unfiltered joy of a first look. If you’re on the fence about whether to do one, let me tell you: Every couple who has done a first look says it was their favorite part of the day—and helped take so much stress off their wedding day!

    Here are the top 5 first look moments that always bring tears to my eyes (and probably will to yours too!).

    1. The Gentle Tap on the Shoulder

    There’s something so intimate about the groom (or partner) waiting with their back turned, heart racing, until they feel that gentle tap. The moment they turn around and see their soon-to-be spouse for the first time? Pure magic.

    💡 Why You Need This: It’s a private, pressure-free moment where you can laugh, cry, or just stare in awe—without 200 guests watching. Plus, getting this emotional moment out of the way early helps calm those pre-ceremony jitters!

    2. The Overwhelmed Happy Tears

    Some couples think they’ll stay composed… and then BAM—the tears hit. I’ve seen tough grooms completely break down and brides burst into happy sobs. These are the moments you’ll cherish forever in your photos.

    📸 Pro Tip: Have tissues ready! (And waterproof makeup, just in case.) Many of my couples say getting those first tears out during the first look made them feel more relaxed walking down the aisle.

    offbeat wedding first look

    3. The Whispered Words

    First looks aren’t just about the visual—they’re about what’s said. Some of the sweetest moments happen when one partner leans in and whispers:

    • “You look perfect.”
    • “I can’t believe this is real.”
    • “Today’s the best day of my life.”

    💭 Why It Matters: These quiet exchanges are 100% authentic—no posing, no crowd, just real emotion. And that private conversation you have? It helps ground you before the ceremony chaos begins.

    4. The Bear Hug Lift

    Some reactions are so full of joy that the groom (or bride!) can’t help but sweep their partner off their feet—literally. The laughter, the surprise, the sheer happiness—it’s gold for photos.

    🤣 Bonus: These always make for epic reaction shots in your wedding gallery. Plus, that burst of happy energy helps shake off any lingering nerves!

    5. The “We Did It” Moment

    For couples who’ve been through long engagements, tough planning, or even big life challenges together, the first look often becomes this quiet, proud moment of: “We made it. Today’s the day.”

    ❤️ Why You Need a First Look: It’s a breather before the whirlwind of the day. No rushing, no stress—just you two, soaking it all in. So many couples tell me this moment helped them finally relax and just enjoy being engaged before becoming married.

    BONUS: Practical Reasons to Do a First Look

    Still not convinced? Here’s why Houston couples LOVE first looks:
    ✅ More photo time = More portraits without rushing (no scrambling after the ceremony!)
    ✅ Calmer timeline = No stress between ceremony & portraits (you’ll actually get to enjoy cocktail hour!)
    ✅ Private moment = No audience, just raw emotion (perfect for nervous couples!)
    ✅ Better light = Sunset ceremony? First looks ensure golden-hour photos (no worrying about losing daylight!)

    First Look wedding day

    Final Thought:

    Your wedding day flies by in a blur—but a first look lets you pause, breathe, and truly feel the moment. And trust me, you’ll want to remember this. Nearly every couple I’ve worked with says removing the pressure of that “aisle moment” made their entire day more relaxed and joyful.

    📌 Houston brides & grooms: Want a first look that’ll make you cry (in the best way) and take some stress off your big day? Let’s chat! email me to plan your dream wedding photos.

    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!

    • DIY wedding details
    • wedding details
    • unique wedding bouquet
    • Houston wedding photographer

     

    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.”

     

     

    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
    • Texas Renaissance Festival
    • Texas Renaissance Festival

     

    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.

    • Texas Renaissance Festival
    • Texas Renaissance Festival
    • Texas Renaissance Festival

     

    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

    Exploring Wedding Ceremony Styles: Unplugged vs. Non-Unplugged

    Weddings are deeply personal celebrations that reflect the couple’s style, values, and vision for their special day. One increasingly important decision couples face is whether to have an unplugged or non-unplugged ceremony. Each approach offers unique benefits and considerations, catering to different preferences and priorities. Let’s delve into the characteristics of both styles to help you decide which aligns best with your wedding dreams.

    Unplugged Wedding Ceremonies:

    Embracing the Moment

    1. The Digital Detox: In an unplugged ceremony, guests are encouraged to disconnect from their devices. This fosters a serene atmosphere where everyone can fully immerse themselves in the magic of the ceremony without distractions. Professional photographers capture the essence of the event, ensuring that intimate moments remain private and special.

    2. Respectful Engagement: By asking guests to refrain from taking photos or videos, couples emphasize the importance of being present. This not only enhances the emotional experience but also shows respect for the sanctity of the ceremony.

    3. Enhanced Privacy: Couples who value privacy appreciate the intimacy an unplugged ceremony offers. Without guests capturing and sharing every moment online, the focus remains on the couple and their vows, creating a more sacred and personal atmosphere.

    Some ways to achieve this (Repetition is key!) :

    • Announce on your wedding website what you expect from your guests during the ceremony
    • Remind guests on your programs
    • Have your ushers/officiant remind guests before the ceremony starts
    • Promise to share photos with the wedding guests once you get them back

    Non-Unplugged Wedding Ceremonies:

    Celebrating with Technology

    1. Guest Participation: For some couples, involving guests in capturing the ceremony enhances the sense of community and celebration. Guests are encouraged to take photos and videos, sharing the joyous occasion in real-time with loved ones who couldn’t attend. During your ceremony, you might want to enforce some rules (like the people on the isle seats are not allowed to use their devices, but can pass them to the person next to them to make sure they are not in your photographer’s way).

    2. Immediate Sharing: Non-unplugged ceremonies allow for instant sharing of special moments on social media platforms. This can be particularly meaningful for couples who want to include distant friends and family in their celebration or who enjoy the immediate gratification of seeing their wedding day unfold online.

    3. Diverse Perspectives: Guests’ photos and videos provide a variety of perspectives and memories of the ceremony. This can complement professional photography by capturing spontaneous moments and candid emotions that add depth to the couple’s wedding day story.

    Some ways to achieve this:

    • By allowing guests to take photos during a designated time at your wedding. You may have your officiant ask guests to take their phones out once you are both at the alter then have you turn to your guests and strike a pose for them. Then they ask your guests to keep their phones in their pockets for the remainder of the ceremony.
    • You can also have your officiant lay down a set of rules before the ceremony starts. i.e:
      • All devices are on silent
      • You may not stand to get a photo or be disruptive to the guest behind you.
      • If you are in a coveted aisle seat, you have one of the best seats in the house and because of that, you are not allowed to take photos or video with your devices, but you can have the person next to you take pictures and videos with your device.

    Choosing the Right Style for You:

    1. Reflecting Your Values: Consider what matters most to you as a couple. Are you drawn to the idea of a serene, distraction-free ceremony where you and your guests can be fully present? Or do you envision a lively celebration where technology enhances the communal experience?

    2. Privacy vs. Sharing: Think about how you want to share your wedding day with others. Do you prefer to keep intimate moments private, or do you enjoy the idea of sharing your joyous occasion with a wider audience in real-time?

    3. Creating Memories: Reflect on the type of memories you want to cherish from your wedding day. Are you more interested in curated, professional photos that capture the essence of the ceremony? Or do you value the spontaneity and varied perspectives that guests’ photos and videos provide?

    Ultimately, whether you choose an unplugged or non-unplugged ceremony, the most important thing is that it reflects your love story and makes you feel comfortable and joyful on your special day. Each style offers its own unique charm and benefits, ensuring that your wedding ceremony is a true reflection of your personalities and priorities as a couple.

    Enchanted Rock Adventure weddingShirley Acres Wedding Photography

    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

     

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

    A Southwest Houston wedding photographer
    Richmond, TX

    A Houston wedding photographer