Ashton and Andrew had a simple wish for their wedding: to keep it small, cozy, and stress-free, with just their immediate family and closest friends. Although they lived in Australia, Andrew had a special connection to New Zealand, so it meant a lot to him to get married there. They didn’t have a specific plan for their wedding, but they wanted it to fit in with the surroundings and make the most of the island’s beauty. The result was a modern and natural Waiheke Island wedding, where art, architecture, and luxury came together perfectly.
Their ceremony venue had a unique sculptural structure with breathtaking views of the Hauraki Gulf. It didn’t need much decor, as it was already beautiful, but they added simple white and green flowers to enhance the space. This created a perfect mix of modern architecture and natural elements. After exchanging heartfelt vows, the celebration continued with a relaxed dinner at the pavilion. They enjoyed delicious food and wine while surrounded by the most incredible ocean views.
Placing their trust in the experts, the couple’s expectations were surpassed as their special day turned out even more remarkable than they had imagined. Fortunately, Wildfolk Photography was there to capture each precious detail, allowing us to relive the magic of their wedding day through these breathtaking images. Take a moment to scroll through and immerse yourself in every beautiful and heartfelt moment.
We live in Australia, but Andrew is from New Zealand, so it was quite meaningful for him to get married there. We first traveled together to Waiheke Island in March 2020 and fell in love with the place—the natural beauty, the fabulous food and wine, and the lovely people! Mawhiti was the first venue our planner showed us, and we couldn’t get it out of our minds! No other places compared. The location overlooking the ocean is amazing. The unique Gateway Sculpture where the ceremony was held isn’t like anything we had ever seen. The modern house was so spectacular and inviting we were blown away.
Creating An Intimate And Relaxed Wedding Vibe Was Top Priority
We aimed to have a small, intimate, relaxed wedding with our immediate family and closest friends. Our masseuse suggested the idea of having a wedding at a house with a chef to cater, so we have her to thank for this because it’s certainly not something we’d considered. Overall, we wanted a simple, modern, and carefree wedding free from expectation. In terms of style, we didn’t have a specific “vision” in mind, but we wanted it to be complementary to the environment to enhance the location’s natural beauty. We were happy to leave it to the professionals and encouraged them to express their creativity.
Wedding Advice: Focus on the Big Picture, Which is Your Marriage
A wedding can be whatever you want, so do what’s right for you, not what you think you have to do. Go with the vendors you like, connect with, embrace their creativity, and trust their judgment. Don’t get too bogged down in the details, the marriage is the main event, and your guests want to celebrate your special day with you!
Staying Present and Soaking in the Joy
Everything was perfect—phenomenal weather, beautiful native floral arrangements, fantastic music, delicious food, and a fabulous photographer who made us comfortable. Beyond the material elements of the day, we both managed to stay very present and “in the moment” so we could soak it all up and enjoy the day. We’re thrilled we managed to do this because the day went so fast, too fast!
Congratulations to Ashton and Andrew on their modern and natural Waiheke Island wedding. A big thank you goes to Wildfolk Photography for expertly capturing the heartfelt moments and stunning details that bring their love story to life.
Take a cue from Ashton and Andrew: Your wedding should be exactly how you want it to be. Don’t feel pressured to follow others’ expectations. Choose vendors you genuinely connect with and let their creativity shine. Don’t stress over small details, and less can definitely be more. Remember, the marriage itself is the most crucial part, and your loved ones just want to celebrate your special day with you!
Karla and Pete were determined to celebrate their diverse backgrounds in a colorful Acre Baja wedding. Instead of a formal ceremony, they envisioned a vibrant and festive celebration. Karla found inspiration in her Mexican roots, taking cues from the iconic Frida Kahlo, known for embracing indigenous traditions, vibrant colors, and unique fashion. They knew it was the perfect venue to bring their vision to life when they arrived at Acre. However, their planning process unexpectedly lengthened due to pandemic-related rescheduling. And although it initially brought frustration, they soon realized that the extra time was a blessing in disguise.
Set against Acre Baja’s lush, picturesque farm, their wedding day was nothing short of magical. Breaking away from tradition, they curated a ceremony that was truly their own. The circular seating arrangement embraced everyone, offering an intimate and equal view of the heartfelt moments. To infuse a sense of home, they stood on a rug from their own house as they exchanged vows. Transitioning into the reception, a joyous fiesta unfolded. They enjoyed a family-style meal and danced all night under the warm glow of string lights.
And just wait until you see the couple’s fashion! The groom rocked a purple suit, while the bride was absolutely stunning in an ethereal lace dress paired with a floral crown. Every detail of their special day reflected their unique personalities and is definitely worth seeing. Take a scroll through these photos captured by Junebug member Daniela Ortiz to witness every breathtaking moment and stunning detail.
Our wedding was a long time in the making. We met in 2015, got engaged a year later, and decided to take our time planning a memorable event. Since our families are from California, Indiana, and Mexico, we wanted a location that was easy to reach and had good weather for an outdoor celebration. In 2019, we visited San Jose del Cabo to find the perfect venue. The moment we arrived at Acre, we knew it was the one. It felt like a peaceful oasis, with delicious food, charming Treehouse hotel rooms, a beautiful mango orchard, roaming peacocks, a refreshing pool, and a farm that reminded us of our childhood homes. Acre felt like a nostalgic homecoming for us. From the beginning, our goal was to make our wedding reflect our unique relationship, blending different cultures and vibrant colors.
A Surprise Dress, A Tribute Dress, And A Memorable First Look
I bought my wedding dress almost four years before the wedding, and we both wanted to keep it a surprise until I walked down the aisle. However, we also wanted to capture the special moment of seeing each other for the first time. So, I chose to wear a second wedding dress. This dress held sentimental value as it was the same one my late aunt wore at her wedding back in 1989. It created a powerful and emotional moment for our family and allowed us to capture a unique first look we will never forget. Instead of a traditional veil, I wore a flower crown to represent my heritage.
A Wedding Ceremony That Celebrated Love, Equality, and Diversity
Our main goal was to create a ceremony that truly reflected who we are as individuals and as a couple. We wanted it to be genuine, filled with emotions, and a tribute to our loved ones who had traveled far and waited patiently to celebrate with us. Equality is a fundamental aspect of our relationship, so we wanted to ensure that we each had moments to shine and express ourselves through our fashion, colors, and music choices. We decided not to have a traditional wedding party or officiant. Pete walked down the aisle with his parents to the music of his favorite composer, Aaron Copland. I walked down the aisle after my parents, symbolizing their support, and chose to independently give myself away as a gesture of equality and love.
Unique Circular Seating and Ending the Ceremony With Well Wishes From Loved Ones
We decided to break away from tradition and create a unique ceremony design. We wanted to be surrounded by love, both literally and symbolically. The circular seating arrangement gave everyone an equal and intimate view of the ceremony. It represented the infinite love we share as a couple, like the rings we exchanged. We didn’t follow the typical religious wedding structure, where a third party officiated the marriage. Instead, we saw ourselves as the central focus of the ceremony, with each guest playing a significant role in shaping our relationship. As a surprise, Karla’s sister closed the ceremony by inviting everyone to share a wish for our marriage, emphasizing the idea of an unending circle of love and support.
Meaningful Bilingual Readings Included in Their Ceremony
After Pete entered, his father–a pastor at a small church in Indiana–shared a short message. Then, my mother–the spiritual guide for the De La Garza family–addressed everyone in Spanish. During the ceremony, instead of reading Bible verses, our closest family and friends took turns reading some of our favorite poems in both English and Spanish. These poems represented the core of our relationship. We deliberately wanted to include both languages, as I’m from Guadalajara, and we wanted to ensure equal representation. Poetry is a significant part of our relationship, functioning as our scripture. Each poem we chose represents a foundational aspect of our relationship, such as embracing imperfections, loving each other completely, and deserving a love that accepts us as we are. We also paid tribute to our writing heroes, with Pete nodding to Winston Churchill and Karla to Frida Kahlo.
Heartfelt Toasts: Honoring Special Family Bonds During Their Colorful Acre Baja Wedding Reception
We wanted the reception to be a joyful celebration filled with excitement and happiness. Our love for vibrant colors and simplicity inspired the decor. We added greenery to complement the beautiful mango trees, and instead of numbers, we named the tables after cities that have been meaningful to us. To create a warm and inclusive atmosphere, we opted for a family-style meal, emphasizing the importance of family and considering our friends as extended family. During dinner, three special family members—my dad, Pete’s mom, and my brother— gave heartfelt toasts, as they share a close bond with both of us and have been a part of our lives.
Bringing A Piece Of Home To Their Colorful Acre Baja Wedding Ceremony
To bring a piece of home with us, we used a rug we bought in Sayulita in January 2020, originally intending to use it on our initial wedding date. The rug had been hanging in our kitchen, waiting for its moment. Having it as a physical and symbolic representation during the ceremony served two purposes: (1) It felt comforting and familiar to stand on something we saw every day, making us feel more at home, and (2) after the wedding, the rug will hang on our walls wherever we live, serving as a tangible reminder of that special day and the vows we made.
Their Colorful Acre Baja Wedding Was A Tequila And Music-Filled Fiesta
I’m from Jalisco, the Mexican state known for its contribution of Tequila to the world. As you can imagine, there was an abundance of tequila throughout the night. Our talented DJ deeply understood our diverse music tastes. He flawlessly mixed pop ballads, EDM, emo rock, popular hits, and reggaetón, and even added a touch of Luis Miguel. The dance floor was never empty as we both have a passion for dancing, and we wanted to ensure everyone enjoyed themselves to the fullest. The party started with Lizzo’s empowering anthem, “About Damn Time,” setting the tone for an unforgettable celebration.
Planning a personalized wedding with loved ones can be exciting and fulfilling. It’s a chance to blend your unique love story with a dream celebration with your closest family and friends. With careful planning and a reliable team of vendors, your special day will surely be a dream come true.
Image by Amber Vickery. Keep scrolling to see some of the best wedding venues in Austin, Texas
Austin has quickly become one of the hottest cities in the United States. Whether that’s because of the food, the killer bar life, the beautiful scenery and opportunity for outdoor activities, or the music scene, we can see why so many people have fallen in love with ATX. So it’s not hard to see why it has become one of the most popular wedding destinations.
If you’re beginning the wedding planning process and on the hunt for the perfect venue in Austin, you’re in luck. We’ve seen and shared our fair share of weddings worldwide, including many in Texas. That’s why we’re rounding up 23 of the best wedding venues in Austin, Texas–from rustic barns to Italian-inspired villas to modern hotels in the heart of downtown.
Located on 17 stunning acres, Pecan Springs Ranch is where Texas hill country meets uptown charm. Surrounded by pecan and oak trees, you can say “I do” in the heart of nature before moving into the 6000-square-foot climate-controlled building, available for a 12-hour rental period. It’s the perfect venue for couples looking for both indoor and outdoor spaces that’s tucked away yet close enough to downtown.
Nestled in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, Prospect House offers a perfect blend of modern design and natural beauty. The Ceremony Lawn sits on meticulously manicured grounds, creating a captivating backdrop for outdoor ceremonies and cocktail receptions. And the sleek blank slate interior offers an abundance of natural light and plenty of opportunity for personalization.
Always dreamed of an outdoor wedding on rolling green hills? Then you’re sure to love The Vineyards at Chappel Lodge. With 53 acres of rambling wildflowers and oak trees, it’s the epitome of romantic. The booking includes a range of rentals, a cooling system, a custom tent, seating and tables, sound systems, and more. They make wedding planning as easy as possible, all while offering unforgettable scenery. Oh, and did we mention that there’s a cabin on the property that houses 14? You can turn your special day into a full weekend full of fun.
Celebrate your love story at The Allan House, an iconic wedding venue in the heart of Austin, Texas. This historic Victorian mansion blends timeless elegance with modern sophistication, offering a captivating backdrop for your special day. With its charming outdoor courtyard and beautifully restored interiors, it sets the stage for unforgettable ceremonies and receptions. Any event held here can only be described as elegant.
This historic 1900s train station turned event space blends vintage charm with modern elegance, offering a unique backdrop for your special occasion. With 4,300 square feet of spacious indoor space and over an acre of outdoor space, Springdale Station can accommodate both intimate gatherings and grand celebrations. The venue offers five-star services, including event coordination and execution and partnerships with top-rated local talent. And because it’s so close to downtown, your guests coming in from out of town will have a wide variety of places to stay.
Villa Antonia brings Tuscany to Texas’s rolling hills with its European-inspired architecture and stunning panoramic views. Exchange vows in the charming outdoor ceremony space surrounded by lush gardens, or opt for an indoor celebration in the elegant ballroom adorned with chandeliers. From the grand entrance to the scenic terrace, every corner of this venue exudes elegance and sophistication. Just be mindful that you do have to use one of their preferred planners/coordinators, caterers, and bar service.
Thanks to its historic Victorian-style house and sprawling grounds, Mattie’s Austin offers a blend of elegance and Southern hospitality. Exchange vows under the shade of majestic oak trees, followed by a delightful reception in Marion Hall, a romantic ballroom-esque space. The culinary team at Mattie’s Austin will create a bespoke dining experience, showcasing farm-to-table cuisine and handcrafted cocktails, which means you and your guests will be eating well. Foodies? This one’s for you.
Looking to host an intimate affair with good food and an air of mystery? Justine’s Secret House (website password: surrealist) may just be the perfect fit. With its vintage-inspired interiors, candlelit ambiance, and eclectic décor, it’s both moody and charming. After saying “I do” in the courtyard dripping in twinkle lights, head inside for a delicious French-inspired meal prepared by expert chefs. From the moment you step inside, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
The Greenhouse at Driftwood truly seamlessly blends the indoors and outdoors, making it the ideal venue for couples looking to be surrounded by nature. Promise each other forever in front of your friends and family on the deck or wedding oak lawn before making your way to the desert and tropical greenhouses for some seriously stunning wedding portraits. Can’t forget to mention that the property also focuses heavily on conservation and sustainability, so you can feel confident in your choice.
A historic building that once served as an ice manufacturing plant, the Ice Plant Bldg is a modern wedding lover’s dream come true. The concrete walls, tall ceilings, and industrial fixtures work with every wedding style–boho, modern, whimsical, etc. So no matter what kind of theme you’re going for, this venue is a blank canvas that you can completely transform.
With four different venue options on property, Camp Lucy offers a range of enchanting settings for your big day. From Ian’s Chapel, a restored 19th-century French colonial chapel, to Sacred Oaks, an outdoor space with sweeping views of the heritage oaks, there’s something for everyone. There’s even a new vineyard tented venue space, a beautiful choice for wine drinkers. Camp Lucy also offers resort options, with beautiful rooms your guests will love staying in, and amenities including a pool, a communal fire pit, and hiking trails.
With both beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces, Addison Grove offers a perfect blend of rustic elegance and modern charm. Between the looming oak trees, large barn, and picturesque pond, it’s not hard to see why this is one of Austin’s best wedding venues. You and your wedding party also have access to the property for the entirety of your wedding day, allowing you to soak up as much time as possible amidst the scenery. And trust us when we say you’re going to want to.
Hotel Saint Cecilia isn’t your typical hotel. Picture old-school rock n’ roll with European flair–that’s what you can expect when you step inside. With a two-day buyout (typically required for most weekends), you and your guests have private access to the entire property. The gardens make for a charming outdoor ceremony and reception space. However, there are also indoor options if you’re looking for a smaller wedding. After the big day comes to a close, lounge by the pool with your loved ones for a weekend to remember.
Located just one mile from downtown and within walking distance to some of ATX’s hottest shops and restaurants, South Congress Hotel has everything you need for an authentic Austin wedding. The indoor space isn’t your typical ballroom, offering a more modern take on a hotel wedding, while the outside courtyard can be transformed into the ceremony space of your dreams. And from extravagant brunches to street tacos, the curated menus are to die for.
Experience luxury and timeless beauty at Commodore Perry Estate in Austin, Texas. This historic and elegant estate offers a breathtaking setting for your wedding day. With its stunning architecture, manicured gardens, and elegant event spaces, the hotel creates an ambiance of sophistication and romance. From intimate ceremonies to grand receptions, Commodore Perry Estate will have you feeling as if you’ve taken a flight to Europe to say “I do.”
Featuring two floors, an indoor main hall, and a glass-ceiling rooftop that gives you a 360° view of downtown Austin, The Riley Building is a top choice for those looking for a city backdrop. The space is big enough to accommodate small or large-scale events and was designed to be a blank canvas that makes for complete customization.
What’s more dreamy than tying the knot in a courtyard in front of a stone fireplace with oaks in the background? We can’t think of anything. That’s exactly what The Arlo offers–and then some. With four different ceremony and reception venue options, there’s something to fit every vision. The open floor concept allows you to party all night long with your friends and family, all while offering an abundance of warm, natural light. It’s refreshingly modern yet timeless and far enough away from downtown to make you feel as if you’re on a romantic getaway.
Situated just 15 minutes from downtown Austin, the Barr Mansion is a 124-year-old Victorian mansion that has been thoughtfully preserved and turned into a sophisticated venue. Not only do you have the option to marry in the gardens, but the mansion also features a ballroom with 40-foot tall walls of glass, allowing you to bring the outside in. You and your guests will also be able to dine on farm-fresh, seasonally-inspired food unlike anything else.
One Eleven East–an award-winning boutique venue–has become one of Austin’s hottest wedding venues. And it’s not hard to see why. On the property, you’ll find natural hardwood floors, exposed white brick walls, a beautiful built-in bar, an outdoor cocktail space, modern farm tables and bistro chairs, natural lighting, and more.
Located in the heart of Texas Hill Country, this 170-acre ranch at The Preserve at Canyon Lake is surrounded by towering hillsides, mature oak trees, and beautiful spring-fed lakes, giving you access to some of the best views in all of Texas. Enjoy an outdoor ceremony or take advantage of the Chapel, a space with towering panoramic windows overlooking a private lake. Then make your way to the light and airy 6,000 square-foot ballroom that further brings in the natural light to party the night away.
Built in 1881, The Grand Lady mansion is steeped in history. Yet it’s one of Austin’s newest wedding venues, having just started hosting large events and weddings in the spring of 2020. The mansion–which was given to the Waltons as a wedding gift–serves as a grand backdrop for your big day. It features four different spaces to entertain your guests–from a 2,500-square-foot lawn to a brightly lit, modern reception hall.
This enchanting venue offers stunning outdoor spaces, including lush gardens and a picturesque lakeside setting, perfect for ceremonies and receptions. With its historic Mediterranean-style villa, gorgeous fountains, rotating art displays, and scenic vistas, Laguna Gloria provides an idyllic backdrop for your special day. It’s not hard to see why it’s won several awards.
This scenic venue, nestled in Dripping Springs, aka “the wedding capital of Texas,” sits among oak trees and 28 acres of breathtaking natural beauty. Whether your special day is an intimate gathering of your closest loved ones or a grand affair, there’s plenty of room in the modern yet rustic farmhouse at Mae’s Ridge. Oh, and if the pictures don’t sell you on this place, it’s also one of the most magnificent places to watch the sunset. It doesn’t get any more magical than that.
Now that you’ve rounded up some of the best wedding venues in Austin, Texas, it’s time to start thinking about the rest of your vendors. Whether your chosen venue has preferred vendors or the choice is up to you, we’re making finding your dream wedding team easier than ever. Check out our directory of wedding vendors from around the world (including Texas) to make your wedding vision come to life!
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