Emily and Nick’s wedding in Texas was a vibrant celebration of love and faith, set against the lush greenery of this charming outdoor venue. Surrounded by the natural beauty of Austin, they transformed their special day into a whimsical wonderland, creating an intimate gathering for 160 of their closest friends and family in just 3.5 months of planning.
Location: Austin, Texas, USA
Style: Bright, warm, whimsical
Time of planning: 3.5 months
Number of guests: 160
Setting: Backyard
Season: Spring
Emily and Nick’s story began in the fall of 2021 during a murder mystery party in Austin, USA, where a connection sparked amidst the intrigue. Despite meeting as friends, they quickly bonded over shared interests like running, concerts, and cycling. It took nearly a year before Nick realized his feelings and asked Emily on a date one evening on her front porch. As time passed, their love deepened, leading to Nick’s surprise proposal on a rainy afternoon at their favorite dock just south of Austin.
Another year went by. Filled with love and joy. To the boy it was now clear. It was time to make his ploy. He led her to a field. And got down on one knee. He looked up and asked her. “Will you marry me?”
Welcome Dinner
The evening before the wedding, Emily and Nick hosted a warm and intimate welcome dinner in a stylish city restaurant with sweeping panoramic views. As the sun set over the city, photographer Amanda Noel captured beautiful photos of the couple, with the golden hour adding a magical glow like natural editing.
This dinner was the perfect event for close family and friends to connect before the big day. Laughter, heartfelt toasts, and shared stories filled the night — a joyful prelude to the much-anticipated wedding day that awaited them all.
Bridal Morning
The wedding day began with Emily’s serene preparation, embodying the simplicity and elegance she had always imagined. She wore a fitted Brie dress by Karen Willis Holmes with custom buttons and detachable sleeves, perfectly combining classic style with a personal touch. Her bouquet, crafted by her friend Courtlynn of Lovelily Flowers, reflected the wedding’s whimsical vibe with vibrant and playful florals.
She completed her look with champagne-colored Franco Sarto Racer Slingback Pointed Toe Pumps, adding a subtle touch of sophistication and a light spritz of 7 Summers by Dime. This scent added a soft, dreamy finish to her ensemble.
Groom's Fashion
Nick chose a sharp black suit from The Black Tux, featuring subtle details like black buttons on his shirt and a colorful boutonniere. The simplicity of his attire allowed him to maintain a sleek, sophisticated look, flawlessly complementing Emily’s graceful elegance. Together, they presented a picture of classic romance with a modern edge.
First Look
Emily and Nick’s first look was a moment of pure joy and anticipation, allowing them a private space to take in the day together. It ramped up their excitement and allowed them to exchange words and communion before their dearest people engulfed them.
Amanda Noel, their photographer and friend, made the experience even more special. Having worked with them during their engagement shoot, she knew precisely how to capture their vibe, creating a relaxed and fun atmosphere that made them feel at ease.
Ceremony
The ceremony took place on a lush green lawn beside a small creek. A stunning floral arch decorated with vibrant orange, yellow, and purple blooms brought a burst of color that beautifully contrasted with the natural greenery. The canopy of trees provided a cool shade as the sun peeked through during their vows, creating an almost divine scene.
Their dear friend Zack officiated, weaving together their story and faith, making the ceremony deeply personal for an audience who had known them through many stages of life. Adding to the moment’s intimacy, Emily’s cousin led a heartfelt worship song, while her brother’s scripture reading further enriched this meaningful occasion.
Emily’s bridesmaids contributed to the scene’s vibrancy, each wearing a dress in a different bright hue, from sunny yellows to rich blues and deep corals. The lively palette of their attire not only complemented the colorful florals but embodied the joyful and warm spirit of the day.
The couple exchanged their vows and shared their first kiss as husband and wife, surrounded by the radiance of nature and their loved ones. This moment felt like a perfect mix of love, beauty, and celebration.
Private Moment
Following the ceremony, Emily and Nick took a quiet moment before joining their guests at the cocktail hour. They strolled through the garden, taking in the beauty of the spring day and the reality of their new chapter together.
With the photographer by their side, they captured gorgeous photos during this peaceful walk, filled with laughter and smiles. Afterward, the couple made a quick stop at home to change into more comfortable, casual sneakers, ready to enjoy the rest of the evening with ease.
Cocktail hour
After their private moment, Emily and Nick joined their guests for a lively cocktail hour on one of the venue’s charming screened-in porches. The space, surrounded by lush greenery and spring blooms, allowed guests to mingle and unwind. Signature cocktails like spicy margaritas, old-fashioneds, and espresso martinis added a festive touch, perfectly complementing the warm, joyful atmosphere.
One of the most unique details was the “paint by the numbers” activity, where guests added their own strokes to a canvas featuring Nick’s poem. It was a creative nod to the couple’s story, turning their love into art with the help of those they cherished most.
Decor & Setting
The reception at Casa Blanca on Brushy Creek seamlessly transitioned from the outdoor ceremony into a beautifully decorated indoor space. Inside, large windows allowed the lush greenery to remain a central feature, creating a feeling of openness and connection with the nature.
Emily’s vision unfolded with thoughtfully designed tablescapes featuring vibrant florals, whimsical vases, and delicate candles. Each table was decorated with slices of fresh fruits and playful, colorful blooms, adding a unique and breezy element to the decor.
Emily’s personal touch extended to the custom-designed paper goods, with menus, bar signs, and heartfelt notes at each place setting, offering guests a miniature poem to remind them of the love that filled the room. These intricate details cultivated an intimate and lively atmosphere, mixing elegance with the joy of spring.
Reception
The reception was cheery as guests mingled, enjoying a carefully curated meal. Emily and Nick’s first dance to “Weekend” by Sumbuck set a sweet, romantic tone for the evening, followed by candid dances with their parents that touched everyone. The timeless sounds of Frank Sinatra and Ella Fitzgerald filled the air, adding an elegant, nostalgic vibe that complemented the lively celebration.
One of the highlights of the evening was the spring-inspired pound cake with strawberries and cream, crafted by their dear friend Callie. The cake was so beloved that guests continued to ask for more even after their personal piece was served.
As the night progressed, the dance floor came alive, with Red Line DJ keeping the energy high and ensuring every guest, from young to old, had a moment to dance and celebrate.
Emily and Nick’s wedding was more than just a celebration. It reflected their love story, filled with laughter, faith, and the warmth of those who cherished them. As they danced beneath the Texas stars, surrounded by friends and family, they stepped into their new life with hearts full of joy, embracing the endless adventures yet to come. In the words of Nick’s poem, they had chosen to “pursue each other for forevermore.”
Advice from the couple:
• Highly recommend doing a first look! It gives you more time with each other and the opportunity to have a private, sacred moment before the party starts. It took them to a whole other level of giddiness before walking down the aisle!
PHOTOGRAPHER Amanda Noel Photos | PLANNER XO Event Co | VENUE Casa Blanca on Brushy Creek | FLORALS Lovelily Flowers | MUAH Crown of Glory | DRESS KWH Bridal | SHOP LVD Bridal | SUIT The Black Tux | CAKE Callie’s Weg | CATERING Royal Fig Catering | DJ Red Line DJ
