At the end of November, Brian and I packed all our gear into travel bags, ensuring we had everything we needed for our destination wedding. With excitement building, we set off for Austin, Texas, to attend a wedding that promised to be unforgettable. As we left behind the chilly Michigan climate, complete with swirling snow flurries, we looked forward to a warm and sunny escape. The wedding and reception took place at the Hotel Zaza in the heart of the city; this lavish hotel was the perfect backdrop for this downtown Austin wedding.
In our conversations with Allie and Jackson, we learned how much they loved the city of Austin and considered it their home. Allie, a native of Michigan, and Jackson, who hails from Nebraska, built their lives together in Austin. Understanding the city’s significance in their daily lives, Brian and I decided to explore Austin ourselves. With our walking shoes on, we eagerly set out to immerse ourselves in the local culture.
We wandered through the streets, taking pictures of the stunning architecture that contrasted modern buildings with charming historical ones. Colorful murals adorned the walls, reflecting the city’s vibrant creative spirit, and we made a note of these locations to revisit on their wedding day.
Allie started her day in the hotel suite with her sister and best friends while Jackson prepared for the day with his father and friends. Allie’s attention to detail was impressive; she included personalized stationery and signage featuring a drawing of downtown Austin, along with monogrammed tennis balls, symbolizing how she and Jackson first met. She honestly thought of everything!
Allie had planned a lovely surprise reveal with her friends. Her girlfriends were thrilled for her and adored her final bridal look. We captured their joyful moment before heading outside for Allie and Jackson’s first look.
Their first look was truly special! Despite the wind blowing around them—thanks, Mother Nature, lol—they were fully present and excited as they finally laid eyes on each other. After that, we explored the city, capturing beautiful portraits of Allie and Jackson in the place they love.
After spending some time in the city, we returned to Hotel Zaza for the ceremony and reception. Jackson and Allie’s family and friends traveled from near and far to celebrate their special day. Not a single seat was left open during the ceremony, where we were treated to their love story, beautifully narrated by Jackson’s tennis coach, who officiated the heartfelt event. The ceremony included it all: laughter, an exchange of rings, and a mixing of coffee grounds.
After the beautiful ceremony, they were eager to kick off their celebration! They made a spectacular grand entrance, their smiles radiating as they stepped into the reception, greeted by the cheers and applause of their family and friends. Heartfelt speeches from loved ones followed, each word filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories, bringing both smiles and a few happy tears.
As the evening progressed, the dance floor beckoned, transforming this downtown Austin wedding into a lively celebration where guests of all ages let loose and danced the night away in a joyous celebration of love and unity.
Jackson and Allie’s day was unforgettable and filled with love; truly, it marks a beautiful beginning for these two! Thank you once again for allowing us to share in your special day.
Wedding Planner: Truly Together Event Co.
Venue: Hotel Zaza
Florist: Stems
Baker: Classy Cakes by Lori
Entertainment: DJ Brian Weber
Stationer + Signage: Maddie Laidig Designs
Beauty: Harper and Olive Salon
Coffee: Creature Coffee