Bluffs on the Blanco Garden Inspired Intimate Wedding

Texas Intimate Wedding Photographer

Dave and Maura like many couples getting married in 2020 were faced with the COVID-19 pandemic and had to make adjustments to the day that they had planned. With guests meeting in Texas from both the East and West coasts, it became apparent that travel restrictions would definitely keep many from joining. With much consideration and discussion, they decided to shift the wedding date to 2021. But they really wanted to get married, now. So they began talking with their planner Kimberley of Silver Thistle Events about a smaller intimate wedding with just their closest friends and family. Dave wanted a chuppah and a few other Jewish elements incorporated to celebrate the day. That’s when the grand idea of Sukkot emerged. Sukkot (Hebrew: סוכות‎ or סֻכּוֹת Hebrew pronunciation: [suˈkot], sukkōt; traditional Ashkenazi spelling: Sukkos/Succos), commonly called the Feast of Tabernacles or in some translations the Festival of Shelters, and known also as the Feast of Ingathering. (this is straight from Wikipedia) Their words were, “we’ve got this idea of an outdoor feast that seems simple and organic - we like it but we’re not married to it, what do you think?”

The key element to this celebration is the sukkah which is an open-air structure traditionally made of palm leaves and reeds. The idea is to dine under the stars while enjoying a Fall harvest. This played right into the timing of the event which fell on a full moon evening. The design process began with a custom-built iron structure from Mancino Iron that was wrapped in reed fencing (an inexpensive option from the local hardware store) along with vines and palm leaves adorning the ceiling and sides provided by Kismet Flowers.

Maura wanted an intimate setting with everyone lounging and eating leisurely while enjoying fine wine and good conversation. She wanted it to be a really relaxed dinner party celebrating the wedding day and their loved ones. Creating spaces with low seating, natural textures, multiple pillows and candlelight abounding, Silver Thistle curated just the right setting for Maura’s vision. The design was intentional, focusing on the experience that guests could gain from a simpler offering of organic materials like cotton napkins, linen pillows, and kilim rugs. These were accented with a pop of color from the cobalt vases holding simple but colorful blooms on every table.

As avid gardeners, Dave and Maura both wanted the food to be fresh, delicious, and abundant. Feast & Merriment created a farm to table offering that didn’t disappoint. A flavorful wedding cake provided by Feathers and Frosting paired with fresh gelato ice cream in hand-rolled cones was a perfect end to the meal.

The chuppah that they were married under had Dave’s family prayer cloth floating in the breeze above them. Later the structure would adorn their garden back in Los Angeles as a reminder of the beautiful riverside ceremony where they wed.

The ceremony site sat along the banks of the Blanco River. A few benches for those wishing to sit were available, but most guests stood close by hugging and smiling as the dynamic couple shared their love story and how they arrived at this amazing day. Their dog Finn sat front and center for the entire ceremony. Once wed, the traditional stomping of the glass followed by the crowd shouting Mazaltov! ignited a roar of applause and joy for the newlyweds.

I spent several days with these three in the Joshua Tree National Park area for their engagement photos and loved every minute! We bonded over our shared love for the outdoors, dogs, music, and of course, Austin. We all happen to love the city. These three hold a special place in my heart and I cannot wait for their big 2021 bash!

Talented Vendors that made this Intimate Wedding possible:

Design + Planning: Silver Thistle Events

Florals: Kismet Florals

Cake: Feathers and Frosting

Catering: Feast and Merriment

Bride’s Hair and Make-up: Bride’s friend

Austin, Texas Elopement and Wedding Photographer

Are you imagining an unconventional wedding or elopement but don’t know where to start? Silver Thistle Events and I design and document elopement experiences for couples who embrace the unexpected. Like you, we believe your experience is your truth. Your values are your vision. Your love is your celebration. We create elopements with a sole purpose: to be true to you! Let’s get started dreaming and planning your true elopement or wedding day!