Oak Vows

At Lone Oak Barn in Round Rock, TX with Kwes + Heather

This amazing wedding between Heather & Kwes started out giving everyone a bit of a worry with a few drops of water falling down on the ceremony site. However, the rain stopped just in time to get these two down the isle and just in time for them to each say their vows to one another. They say a little rain on your wedding day is actually good luck and by all means, It was a wedding day miracle! Nothing could stop these two from getting married and their ceremony and reception was absolutely a success!

How Heather & Kwes met (in Heather's words):

“We actually met through a mutual friend, one of my Matrons of Honor at the wedding. I was at her twenty first birthday party when I noticed this tall handsome guy walk in. Of course me being shy and not liking to talk to strangers at this point in my life just quietly went about the night, but kinda kept an eye on him. I didn’t think he noticed me or seemed interested and I had to leave early for work the next day so I left and didn’t think much of it. Of course as girls do I told our mutual friend about the handsome stranger a few days later, and her being a good friend, she decided to play matchmaker and set something up without us knowing. About a week later she asks me to help her move out of her apartment and who would happen to show up, the guy from the party. So we got to talking and come to find out the reason he stayed away that night was because I was taking care of a very inebriated friend who was very upset and kept yelling that the same mutual friend wouldn’t make out with her. So he decided to stay away from that hot mess. But once we started talking we just clicked very well, and a few days later he asked me out on our first date!”

— Heather

The Proposal (In Heather's words)

“Our engagement was actually kinda funny and sweet, I feel like he did a really good job, especially with me not being as cooperative as he would of liked! We had been dating for almost four years and he knew that I was getting very anxious, it may of been the obvious hints and pinterest boards that gave it away but who knows. So for my birthday/four year anniversary he wanted to go up to Eagle Nest, New Mexico for a nice vacation. So we left with Kwes’s parents and sisters to stay a week at their family cabin. The first couple of days we all got settled in and all hung out and played a bunch of games and had a little to drink. The second night we were their I had a little bit too much to drink and by the end of the night Kwes wanted to cuddle on the couch, well apparently I was feeling a little ornery and told him I didn’t want to cuddle because I didn’t have a ring, just kidding around of course. Well he didn’t get the joking vibe I got a “really?” look that made more sense the next day. The next day we get up at 5 in the morning to go zip lining through the mountains, which I am terrified of heights and falling, so this was a big one for me. But we actually had a blast! We get back to the cabin and everyone is exhausted, and at this point all I want to do is take a nap. Well Kwes turns to me and says that he wants to go and take a nice family picture since we are all together. A little bit of a backstory here, Kwes hates pictures! Anytime we have to take pictures for anything it’s a small battle, that usually ends up in the what I call the “Chandler Bing” face (from Friends). So knowing that, I was a little perturbed at the fact that right at this moment we had to get dressed up and take pictures, you know right after we pretty much just faced death and flew down the side of a giant mountain on a rope. But after some moaning and groaning, and a few choice words, I decided to go along with it and got ready. So we go out and Kwes decides that he , the man who never wants to take a picture, wants to take it at the highest part of the mountain and right on the ledge. Again afraid of heights I reluctantly agreed. So we start taking the pictures and it’s just me and Kwes in the pictures at this point with his mom taking them and his sister standing right behind her fiddling with something. I started to notice something was going on because we were talking like 2 minutes on just me and Kwes in the same spot and they were all giving each other strange looks, the whole time Kwes’s sister is still fiddling with something behind their moms back. Then, Kwes’s mom decided she wanted a few of me by myself, so Kwes went to stand next to them and I saw his sister hand him something. The next thing I know, Kwes is right next to me down on one knee, asking me to marry him. I was so incredibly happy and excited and just a gigantic ball of emotions that I said yes and without even thinking about it, I grabbed him close. Kwes will say I snatched it (like a Hobbit), the ring from his hands without giving him the chance to put it on my finger first. Come to find out, Kwes had the ring and been planning this beautiful proposal for months! Also, I found out later from his sister who had been fiddling with something behind their mom’s back, was actually put the ring and the box down her shirt to hide it and it had gotten stuck, and that’s why we were taking the same picture over and over again. Besides our wedding day, that day was the best day of my life, I am so grateful that I get to call him my husband and we get to share each and everyday together. I wouldn’t of had it any other way!”

— Heather

Heather & Kwes,

 I am so happy to have had y'all each as my amazing clients & I am so grateful that you chose me to cover your special day! It was such a great time getting to know your love story and to see what truly makes you each so in love with each other. I had such an amazing time with your friends and family-everyone made me feel so welcomed and a part of the celebration. I am truly happy for you two. My wish is that when you look through your photos from your wedding day, you'll always be reminded of how amazing of a day it was. My prayer for you each is that when you get in your first argument (& it will happen), I hope you can both take a look through these photos together and remember all the feelings of love you have for each other and how much fun you can have with one another each day. My wish for you both is that as every day that goes by, you genuinely remember the feelings that were so obvious on your wedding day and make your best effort to show the other person that they are your number one priority over anyone else. I consider myself blessed to have y'all in my life & I can'twait to see where life takes you on your journey together. God bless you both & don't be strangers!

With Love,

Lyndsay

A special thanks to all the amazing vendors who made this wedding possible:

Photography: Lyndsay Lyon Photography

Venue: Lone Oak Barn

Florals: Foxglove & Grace

Coordination: Foxglove & Grace

Catering: PoK-e-Jo's

DJ & Photo Booth: Complete Weddings

Makeup & Hair: Muah & Co. 

Wedding Cake: Classic Cakes by Lori

Cobbler: Iron Works BBQ (Hand scooped in Mason Jars)

Rentals: Monarch Event Rentals 

Wedding Dress Boutique: Belle Saison Bridal

Wedding Dress: Allure Romance

Bride's Boots : Cavenders

Bridesmaids Dresses: David's Bridal (in Biscotti)

Groom & Groomsmen Suits Location: Men's Warehouse

Groom & Groomsmen Suit Brand: Awearness Kenneth Cole

Texas Hill Country

At McKinney Falls State Park with Clint + Chandler

So much happiness fills my heart by sharing this amazing Engagement Session on the blog today! Meet Chandler & Clint y'all....and of course their adorably fluffy furbaby, Bleau (who was awfully photogenic might I add!) This couple is so full of love and chemistry for one another, they made my job as a photographer so easy! Just look at how stunning Chandler is in her two dresses and how he looks at her! *Insert heart eye emoji**

We started our session at McKinney Falls State Park and I am so glad we did because the water was flowing and we practically had the place to ourselves, which I've never seen before. I was so happy because  the sun was shining, but it was the absolute PERFECT temperature. Also, just how amazing is a waterfall for the backdrop to showcase this sweet couple? I mean, c'mon! I had a great time getting to know the sweet couple more throughout our session and as they explained their story of how they met and how Clint proposed, it made me even more excited for their wedding next January!

In Chandler's words, how they met:

"Clinton and I both grew up in a small town just 15 minutes apart from each other without even knowing it. I’m from Bastrop, TX and he is from Smithville, TX. We met through friends of friends since we were both from a small town where everyone knew everyone and then the journey began." 

We ended our session on top of Mount Bonnell as the sun went down & it was an absolutely breathtaking view of Lake Austin & the natural beauty of the Texas Hill Country. God sure did bless this great state of Texas with absolutely stunning views & I am so happy my clients chose to utilize that for their Engagement Session!

In Chandler's words, this is how Clint Proposed:

"Every year it was a tradition to travel to South Fork, Colorado where the Robertson’s have a family cabin. Going to such a beautiful state and town became a tradition to gather there for family vacation and relaxation. Each trip we would go to a beautiful cliff that would outlook over many mountains for many miles. This spot we have been coming to the past 3 years was where the proposal was planned.

As Clinton had bought the ring and planned this for months the day finally came that we traveled to Colorado for a family thanksgiving trip. This trip we had planned to go to this traditional beautiful cliff outlook 2 days before thanksgiving. My mom, dad, Clinton and I drove through the mountains to the cliff. When we got there we were looking for a great spot to stand to be able to take a photo. Clinton had been looking down at the ground at multiple ledges the cliff had and I had no idea what he was doing (this was him trying to find a spot that he wouldn’t fall off the edge when he got down on one knee because he’s scared of heights lol) we finally decided on a spot. As we were posing for a photo Clinton looked at me and said “ I want to spend forever with you” and after that I was in shock and aw that I could not remember what else he said because I knew what was about to happen. Clinton to this day, even though he planned something to say to me, doesn’t know what he said either because he was so nervous. That is when he got down on one knee and proposed.

That beautiful outlook that has become a tradition has now become a lifetime memory we will never forget."

We had such a great time together and how perfect is the sun shining through on these two? Natural light is something that really can't be duplicated & we were blessed with a fabulous day for our session. They completely rocked their session & I can't wait for the big day!

Chandler & Clint, 

 I am so honored to have you as my sweet clients & I really look forward to serving you on your wedding day to capture the memories for you that you can cherish for years to come. You are in such a special chapter of your lives as you begin your life together, so remember to take time for each other and also for relaxation while you plan for the big day. I can't wait to be there for you in January! 

Grow With Me

One Year of Photo Sessions with Baby Mae

I am so excited and honored to show y'all these precious photos of sweet baby Mae! I have been photographing this sweet girl since she was a newborn last March! We had a Newborn Session, a 4 month session, an 8 month session and a One year session! It has been such a blessing to see her and her sweet parents every few months & see how much she has grown in between each time we get together. She's running around everywhere now & quite the curious little babe. Also, how adorable is her curly red hair and bright blue eyes?

I put together a collage of each session for you to also see how she's grown this past year! I truly hope you enjoy taking a look as much as I enjoyed meeting up with this sweet family each time throughout the year.

During our 4 month session, I was so impressed with how animated she had become and aware of the people around her. She was all smiles and such a happy baby!

For her 8 month session, I was suprised to see how mobile she was! She couldn't quite stand and walk yet, but she loved pulling herself up to stand for a few seconds at a time. Again, she was all smiles! 

At our 12 month session, she was quite the mobile babe! She was pouring 'tea' for me and for her sweet momma and pretending the 'sip' the tea. It was adorable. 

Her parents are so in love with their sweet babe & I love seeing the progression of photos showing all the love they have for their precious daughter.

Shelley & Ryan, 

  It was such an honor to be able to capture your first child's moments throughout her first year! It was also great being able to meet up with y'all throughout the year to hear about all her 'firsts'. Time really does fly by & I am so glad you chose to be there to capture each stage in this amazing chapter in y'alls life. I look forward to being able to capture many more stages of your sweet family in the future, so don't be strangers. God bless!

With Love,

Lyndsay

Puppy Love

At Mattie's & South Lamar with Jake + Abbey

If I could accurately tell you how many days so far this year that Texas has had weather even remotely close to what it was like for this session, I can honestly say I may not need both hands to count. This day was P.E.R.F.E.C.T y'all! And I mean perfect. Let me just set the scene for you:

Clear skies up above. Sun rays shining down. Puppy kisses full of love. Champagne, winding down. Light breeze through the hair. Belly laughs everywhere.

This engagement session brought so much joy. Meet Jake & Abbey...oh yes, and how could I forget to introduce their adorably lovable furbaby, Lucy. We started our session at their beautiful condo off of South Lamar on the stairs leading up to their front door. Just look at this adorable family y'all, seriously!

When Abbey & I started to discuss location options they had in mind for their session, she mentioned possibly having part of their session at a restaurant called Mattie's. My eyes immediately lit up when she said the name because I have heard quite a buzz about this refined, but swanky South Austin restaurant. I had seen photos that others had posted taken at Mattie's - they posted them on their chic style blogs as the new "Austin Food Gem". I was very excited to be able to have our photo session at Mattie's & I will say without a doubt, it did not disappoint. This place is absolutely gorgeous! 

The story of how they met explained by Abbey:

"After high school, we both decided to attend The University of Texas at Austin and both chose to live in Dobie, a freshman dorm just off campus. I was on the 5th floor, and Jake was on the 12th floor. He had moved into to Dobie with his friend from high school, Taylor Brasher, as his roommate. Taylor is actually now our Best Man in our wedding! My friends and I met Taylor in Dobie cafeteria (a lot of kids would hang out there and socialize), and he invited us to come hang out and meet his friends one night after dinner. When we showed up, Jake was there, and that’s where we first met! We all spent the night hanging out playing games, and Jake and I immediately hit it off."

Q: Abbey, what’s the story of your proposal?

Jake and I actually decided to choose a ring together, so we spent months visiting with different jewelers learning about different cuts of diamonds and settings. We actually chose the loose diamond and the setting of my ring together, but I never got to see the completed ring until he proposed! At the time, I was still living in Dallas, and he had moved back to Austin for a great job opportunity. We would trade off visiting each other on the weekends, and this weekend was my turn to visit Austin. He told me he made plans for us to go to the lake for the weekend, and that he had chosen a house on Air BNB and booked it already. (This tipped me off a little because he never ever books anything on his own, usually I’d be the one doing all the research and planning!) When I arrived, it was close to sunset since I had to drive from Dallas after work. He (and Taylor) had set up a walkway of lights and candles to the deck on this lake house, with a beautiful view of the lake. He had a little table set up with photos of us, and just asked me to marry him right there! As soon as i said yes, people started cheering and all our friends ran out of the lake house (they had been hiding inside and watching through the window). We spent the weekend on the lake celebrating with our best friends. It was an amazing weekend!

Abbey & Jake, I had such a great time with y'all on your Engagement Session & I am really looking forward to your wedding day. I hope you two really enjoy this chapter leading up to the big day. Remember to keep laughing, don't stress the small stuff when it comes to the planning process and wake up every day knowing you are very blessed to have one another. I am honored to be your wedding photographer - let the countdown begin!

With Love,

Lyndsay

Bright & Sunny

At Mckinney Falls & Seaholm District with Kevin + Taylor

Taylor & Kevin are two of the most amazing people I've ever met. They believe in true love wholeheartedly & it shows! When we first met, it was at Starbucks. We began to talk details and let me tell you - we talked about EVERYTHING! Kevin blushed while explaining the story of how he proposed & excitedly left no detail out. It was so incredible to be able to hear how they met & fell in love. I absolutely loved getting to know these two!

We were about an hour and a half in to our meeting and all of a sudden, something very peculiar happened. Just as I took a sip of my tea, time stopped for a moment & we were all completely on the same wave length. Let me explain...We talked about literally everything & somehow began talking about favorite numbers. Well, as I took a sip of my tea, they both mentioned to me that their favorite numbers are 10 & 13. I nearly spit out my drink when they told me that. Random enough it would even happen to come up in conversation, but the fact that my birthday is October 13th - (TEN.THIRTEEN people!),  I saw this as an immediate sign that we were going to get along very well. It was one of those moments where you just felt like you were exactly where I needed to be. Does that ever happen to you? I call this type of moment "a God thing" because it's almost like He did this to make us all laugh, smile & say "you're kidding, right?". The odds. Also, not only is their wedding in my birthday month, it is actually on Halloween night, which I am really looking forward to!

Can we all just take moment to look at how stunningly gorgeous Taylor's green eyes are. For the record, I have never seen eyes so green, they were made to be in front of the camera! They both rocked the session & I absolutely loved getting to know them even a bit more during our time together in the sun. Countdown to their Halloween wedding begins now! 

Q: Taylor, what’s your proposal story?

Kevin surprised me with a weekend away filled with shopping and delicious food. We drove out to San Antonio and spent the day at the river walk, eating, shopping, and visiting the local museums. That night we laid down for bed and I mentioned that something felt a little strange and asked if he needed to tell me something, he said no and tomorrow we would head home. The next day we did not head home, but toward Lost Maples park, which was absolutely beautiful! We hiked a few miles toward the top of the hill and stopped about half way to the top, going off the main trail to a cliff that overlooked the hills and trees. The view was a perfect resting point and Kevin apparently needed to scrummage through our backpack before we continued. As I enjoyed the view, he continued to dig in the backpack and ask me if I needed any water, which I declined, again. Eventually he comes out with the box. He was smiling so much, I couldn’t help but to return the same. The ring was gorgeous, but I needed to focus on what he was saying! J He told me over and over how much he loved me…sparkle sparkle….love…sparkle. I said yes!! As soon as he was able to get the ring on my puffy hiking finger, I jumped toward him, so excited he finally asked!! I had forgotten we were on the edge of a cliff, but was less than focused and rolled around kissing him while he tried to keep us from falling off. We eventually made it back to the car where he poured us a glass of champagne and we enjoyed some delicious snacks, as the sun set.

Museum Mayhem

At Blanton Museum & Seaholm District Engagement with Zach & Noelle

I am so excited to post this amazing Engagement Session with Zach & Noelle! The Blanton Museum is my favorite museum in Austin & is closed on Mondays each week. Well, these two rented it out for part of our session & when they brought the idea up in conversation, I was more than excited! I am in love with the light blue ombre wall that is in the main grand room at the foot of the stairs of the museum-it almost makes you feel like you're standing at the bottom of the ocean in the Caribbean! These two were so fun to hang out with on our session & I loved being able to hear about how their worlds first collided with the help of a little technology & an updated grasp of what dating really looks like in today's day and age.  

How did y'all meet and what was your first date like?

Zach - "Noelle and I first met on a dating app., which reflecting back on is still fairly unconventional at this point
in time - but we count ourselves really lucky to have met our significant other in this way.
 
Our first date ended up being one of our most favorite/funniest memories we share with our friends and
new faces when people ask "How did you two meet?".
 
After chatting for a little bit on the app. we decided to grab drinks - Noelle insisted that we had to grab
food if we were going to get drinks, and if we were going to grab food then it had to be tacos. We
decided on a local East-Austin mezcal bar for the first date.
 
We got to the restaurant and immediately hit it off - there was never a dull moment during the date. At
some point during the date we put in our orders: I got fish tacos and Noelle got al pastor. After more
conversation and a couple more drinks our food comes out, but I notice something a little off about the
food. The plates look identical - both fish tacos. The plates are set down and I look over at Noelle:
"Hey Noelle, I don't think that is tacos al pastor. You should tell the waiter and I'm sure he'll change it out
for you."
"Oh no, it's fine. I really don't mind."
"You sure? You should get what you ordered."
"Yah, it's fine."
 
So, I left it at that and we enjoyed our dinner. After I'd finished my plate I noticed across the table that
Noelle had hardly touched her tacos but I shrugged it off as her being nervous and that she didn';t want
to eat a ton of food in front of a stranger. We wrapped up the date with plans made for a second and
said good night.
 
Flashforward about a month and a few more dates. We were driving in my car to dinner and we're
chatting about what our favorite foods are. I somehow get on the subject of salmon burgers and how
much I love them as a quick dinner when Noelle stops me:
"Hey Zach…"
"What's up?"
"I have a confession to tell you…"
"What is it?"
"I don't like fish."
"Wait what?! You ate fish on our first -"
"Yah, I don't like fish at all. In fact thinking about eating fish makes me sick."
"No way - this whole time?! You could have had those al pastor tacos!"
 
We laugh every time we remember that conversation, or any time we drive past that restaurant. I think
that was something that really stood out to me about Noelle - how easy it was for us to make each other
laugh. It's still like that today."

Noelle - "Zach and I met on Tinder. I had never been on that or any other dating app before, but my cousin and I were bored one night and decided to see what all the fuss was about.  I didn't think anything would come of it but look where we are now.  Zach swiped up on my profile (which I later found it is called a "superswipe"), so I guess he meant serious business.  After not replying to his (or anyone's) messages, he sent over a gif of a guy at a computer waiting for a response.  Over time as the man is waiting for a reply, he turns into a skeleton.  Which of course prompted conversation!

Our first date was in East Austin at a taco bar (I insisted on tacos, Zach insisted on drinks).  We talked for a quite a while and didn't even notice how much time had passed before we decided to call it a night. A funny story that we like to tell people is how the kitchen got my order wrong and gave me fish tacos.  I hate fish.  But didn't want to seem picky so I "acted cool" and ate a little bit.  But it's terrible because Zach loves fish and he was raving about salmon like two months later.  That's when I knew I had to 'fess up. 

Can you describe the Proposal story?

Zach - "

I began engagement ring shopping secretly around August 2017 while Noelle was on vacation with her
family in Italy. Started off at Tiffany's (yikes), talked to some local Austin jewelers, but ended up going
with an online ring retailer to find the perfect ring.
 
Simultaneously, I got Noelle's cousins involved with ring selection and brainstorming creative ways that I
could ask Noelle to marry me. Poetry or write a song, no not my style. Big gesture, not really my thing
either. Family gathering - bingo. I knew that I wanted to find a way to honor my parents in the
engagement as well, so I decided to "ask the question" to Noelle on the same day that my parents got
engaged - Christmas Eve.
 
Now I just had to get the parents on board to convince her side of the family to be in Austin for the
proposal … while all keeping it a secret. No pressure. I took her parents out to dinner in October while
Noelle conveniently had classes so not to raise any suspicion. The parents and I had a great dinner - I
remember I was so nervous about asking, so I got it out of the way right when we first sat down - "Look
if I don't say this at the beginning I';m just going to be a nervous wreck and I'm not going to be able to
enjoy my dinner - I want to marry your daughter!"
They gave me their blessing and we enjoyed the rest of the night over some cocktails and good food.
 
The ring came in around mid-October and that thing burned a hole in my pocket for almost two and a
half months. There were so many times where I was tempted to not wait until Christmas Eve and just
propose because I was so excited to share it with Noelle. But I waited and I planned.
 
My plan was to present the ring in a sort of Russian nesting doll format, but with boxes. Each box would
sit inside the next with a different present in each. I got Noelle a massage gift certificate, lotion form
L'Occitane, and the last box had the engagement ring box in it.
 
Christmas Eve quickly rolled around the corner and the big night was upon us. The whole proposal was
about to go down in front of her entire Peruvian side of the family. It's tradition in Latin American
cultures that you open presents on Christmas Eve close to midnight, so I'd ask the cousins earlier that
day to help wrangle people into the living room and to take pictures after dinner.
 
Everyone settled in to the living room and all the "kids" began passing present around to everyone. My
heart was beating faster and faster as less and less presents sat under the Christmas Tree. When it got
towards the end I took my presents to Noelle and waited patiently with the ring in my pocket.
 

She was already knew that I'd purchased the lotion for, but I got the massage certificate to throw her off
my tracks - and to my delight she didn't seem to suspect what was in the last box. When she finally
opened the last box and got to the engagement ring she said "What's this?" That's when I dropped to
one knee and popped the question "Noelle, will you marry me?"
 
"Wait, really? … Yes, of course!"
 
It's been a whirlwind of planning ever since!

These two truly love each other & they shared how much they enjoy reading together, which I thought was amazing. Those who read together, stay together- is that a saying? It should be. I've always been taught to never stop learning & I think that two people who enjoy reading and keeping their minds sharp can only mutually benefit their lifelong commitment towards one another. There is something to be said about this mutual trait they both posses and it is very motivating for me as well to pick up my book currently on my bedside table and cozy up with tea to be brought in to a different world for a moment. 

I asked the two to send me a few notes with a recap of their story and I was so impressed by what they included. How amazing is it that Zach included specific reasons why he loves Noelle:

"There are about a thousand different reasons that I love Noelle, but here are just a few that I wanted to
share with you, the reader:
 She finds a way to make me laugh. Every. Single. Day.
 We can be goofy as hell when no one is around
 She's always down for a board game

 We love our national parks and have plans to visit as many as we can before we're too old
 She embraces my inner nerd. She even joins in every now and then
 When we disagree, there is always forgiveness and commitment to make each other better
 She's brought me closer to God and supported me to be a better man
 Her family has made me feel so welcome
 Her generosity and empathy towards others (especially those less fortunate) is contagious
 She finds new ways to show me her love
 
It's for all these reasons and so many more that I decided I wanted Noelle to be my wife."

Also, refering to after their first date, Noelle said this:

"We've been inseparable ever since, and have loved every minute of it.  From going to Book People in downtown Austin, walking around the hike and bike trail, rock climbing, and everything in between, we have become best friends.  Zach proposed on Christmas Eve in front of my entire (we're talking 30 people) family, just like Zach's father did many years ago."

Zach & Noelle really seem to be such a great match, especially because they enjoy so many of the same things. They explained how excited they were for the Astros winning the World Series and sported their Houston pride. Also, Noelle found her favorite words in her book that said "'Though mayest, Thou mayest!'". I love that Zach honors Noelle for bringing him closer to the Lord. That is one bond we all share & it was very encouraging to read that. It was such a joy to spend time with these two and I cannot wait for their wedding in January! Cheers, to Zach & Noelle- May your love be strong and may your faith be great.

“So now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love.”

— 1 Corinthians 13:13

Hill Country Romance

At Vista West Ranch in Dripping Springs, Texas with Rhett + Kaila

I'm so excited to show y'all this wedding today on the blog! Kaila & Rhett made the most perfect bride and groom and their story is really special. My husband, Zach actually went to high school with Kaila & Rhett worked at the gym we go to in South Austin.

We had no idea he was dating the same Kaila that my husband knew in high school, we would go in to the gym and talk to Rhett for a half hour at a time and he would mention his girlfriend. After about 3 or 4 months of going in to workout and talking to Rhett, we got to know a bit more about him. He told us he had previously served in the military (which I greatly appreciate because my father was also in the military) & he told us how he was planning on becoming a Police Officer. He also told us he was thinking about proposing to his girlfriend who he would mention every now and then. One day, we walked in to workout just like any other day & there Rhett was, at the front desk as usual, with a smile from ear to ear. I thought this was out of the ordinary and someone had just told him a funny joke or something had just happened funny in the gym, but no one was around him and he was just looking at Zach & I. Without waiting for us to finish saying our normal "Hey Rhett, how are you?", he quickly and proudly informed us that he had popped the question to his girlfriend. He was very excited & we were very excited for him as well. At the time, we still had no idea who his new fiance was, but soon after, I had a Bridal Extravaganza in Austin and my husband and I worked the booth as usual. Kaila & her sweet mother passed by and Zach recognized Kaila & caught up for a little while. It was then that we realized these two people who we knew were engaged to each other & we were couldn't be more excited for them!

This is how Kaila explained meeting Rhett "We first saw each other in philosophy class in August of 2014. A couple class sessions went by and I got up the nerve to make small talk after class while walking to our cars. Rhett asked me on a date shortly after that. First date was on 9/11/2014. Rhett moved in with me 3 short months after we started dating. (HA)"

...and how he proposed:
"On December 23, 2016 Rhett said he was taking me out for a surprise early Christmas gift. He took me out to lady bird lake trail and proposed! It was just the two of us but a couple of random people captured photos of the whole thing from a distance, which was awesome to have! After that we went to celebrate at Perla’s on south congress where our closest family and friends were there to surprise me and celebrate with us."

I am so grateful to have had this amazing opportunity to photograph these two on the most important day of their lives. The day was absolutely perfect and every detail set perfectly in place. Vista West Ranch was the perfect venue for the pair set in the Texas Hill country and not too far away from Austin. The first two rows of chairs for the closest family to the bride & groom were all different & added a very eclectic feel to the ceremony area. I have only photographed outdoor weddings at this venue and was so excited they decided to get married inside for their ceremony because the french doors in the back are decorated with dried baby's breath year round by the venue & the look created the most amazing arch for the ceremony!

Kaila's parents were so kind throughout the entire day & it was such a pleasure being able to capture her mother button up her gown and the reaction on her father's face when they had their own 'First Look' before the ceremony where he saw her in her gown for the first time. 

Kaila & Rhett are very laid back and truly light up when they are around each other. They even took a shot of Gentleman's Jack before the ceremony to ease their nerves, which proved to be a great photo opp.

Kaila also gave me her parent's original weddings bands to photograph and tied them on to her shoe laces during the ceremony. 

Shortly after they booked me as their photographer, Rhett left his job at the gym to join the intense Police Officer Training program in San Antonio in order to pursue his new career. Kaila showed her support of his decision and dedication by tying a band around the flowers- a ‘thin blue line’ bracelet, which is displayed to show support for law enforcement.

When I arrived at the venue, Kaila gave me her box of detail items & explained that the $2 was included because her Grandfather Janssen, who passed away in 2008, had always gifted her and the other grand kids with a $2 bill every Christmas and she still has all of them. I thought that was really special & I loved that she included it in her detail box to be photograph because it was so special to her. It's almost as if Grandpa Janssen was there that day, just looking over the couple. 

I have to point out how adorable these two flower girls are! They were so sweet with each other & looking out the window as guests arrived. Kaila was extremely smart and stylish at the same time - just look at those Kate Spade glitter shoes!

While the ladies were finishing up getting ready, Rhett and his groomsmen were having fun playing 007 and the 'Ring Security' was showing me how they listened to their radio in their ear regarding protecting the rings at all costs - seriously the best idea for ring bearers I've ever seen! One of the boys informed me they only stand up straight for photos with their hands behind their back, not in front. 

As the ceremony began, Rhett let the moment overtake him while watching his beautiful bride walk towards him and began to tear up. Kaila was simply glowing & ready to marry the love of her life.

As the ceremony continued, it was hard not to tear up myself behind my lens and the couple kissed to seal the deal. They walked down the isle as Mr. & Mrs. & were applauded in their new chapter of life. They were soon surrounded by the grand scenery of the natural Texas hill country just as the sun was setting behind the newly married couple. They stood there in the tall grass, taking in the moment that had jsut happened.  

Special Thanks to all the vendors for making this day possible for Kaila & Rhett:

- Venue: Vista West Ranch
- Hair & makeup: Southern Beauty by Jessica Percenti 
- Flowers: HEB Blooms
- Food: The Peached Tortilla  Cupcakes: Nothing Bundt Cakes
- Alcohol Service: Bar Butlers
- DJ: The Premier Entertainment Group, Michael Bond
- Brides dress: Essense of Australia
- Grooms suit: Calvin Klein
- Bridesmaid dress: Watters 
- Ceremony Vocals: Krista and Jake - family friends
- Day of Coordinator: Coordinate This, Jaime

Downtown Glamor

At the Driskill Hotel in Austin, Texas with AJ + Kathryn

I was so excited to photograph Kathryn & AJ's wedding! They booked with me over a year before their wedding because they wanted every little detail to perfect- and everything was beyond perfect! I met up with Kathryn, Kathryn's mother and also AJ's mother at Starbucks to get to know each other a bit more and just to talk details. I learned all about how Kathryn and AJ met & how AJ had proposed to Kathryn in front of all their family last year & how romantic is was.

Also, I became overly excited because they met in college at Texas State University---MY Alma mater! In fact, Texas State was not only the campus I climbed hundreds of thousands of stairs while earning my Photography Degree from, but also the campus where I met my now husband, Zach. So, in a way, their love story really resonated with me and my experience as well & for that, I felt very connected to the pair and we had a mutual understanding of similar college experiences. In fact, we photographed their Engagement Session in San Marcos, home of Texas State University. We began at the Square, where so many nights were spent with friends enjoying life. Then, we moved on to the campus, where so many (& I mean SOOOOO many) stairs were climbed while going to classes - it was really nice being able to go back with Kathryn & AJ to re-visit the place where new chapters began & great memories were made in my own life & to hear about how they met & the places on campus that were special to their love story. 

Kathryn's sweet mother was there to help calm her nerves and to make sure getting the bridesmaids were ready. Both Kathryn & AJ's mom were so much fun to be around & made me feel like part of the family. Also, how perfect is Kathryn's braided up-do by Blushed Beauty? 

Kathryn wanted to have a moment with her father for a 'First Look' before the day began to speed up. When he saw her, a smile spread from ear to ear across his face and they held hands in love and as they silently acknowledged how important this moment was, Kathryn began to tear up. Her dad hugged her close, reminded her how lucky AJ was to marry her & how perfect she was as a bride. Kathryn let out a trusting sigh of relief and wiped the happy tears away.  Next, the couple had their own 'First Look' out on the patio & AJ was stunned with how breathtaking Kathryn was in her gown. He knew, just then, it was the moment he had waited his whole life for & he was ready. 

Rewind to the time they first met in AJ's own words:

“We first met at the Villagio Apartment’s pool in San Marcos, Texas. My fraternity, Phi Kappa Psi was participating in an event being hosted by Kathryn’s sorority, Delta Gamma. For this particular event, fraternities would volunteer members to participate in a number of activities including a synchronized swim routine. I was there to support some of my fraternity brothers who were participating and of course hang out with the wonderful ladies of Delta Gamma. Almost immediately, Kathryn caught my eye mainly because she had a six pack of Shiner in her hand rather than a wine glass. As I did a double take to make sure I saw that beautiful blonde holding my favorite beer, my good friend Bobby Buchanan asks, “You want to meet her?” & boy, did I ever! Sure enough, Brother Bobby worked his wonderful charm and introduced me to Kathryn. After talking for a bit we exchanged numbers and went our separate ways. At that moment, I knew Kathryn was the love of my life. I even told one of my other fraternity brothers, Tyler Deck, that I was going to make Kat a pb&j (no, really) and that I was convinced that she would marry me because it was such a phenomenal sandwich. I learned shortly after that Kathryn despises jelly (who doesn’t like jelly?!) but she let me try to entertain her as best I could in my little 1 bedroom 650 sq. ft. apartment. We had a great time that evening talking about music and movies and after that night we progressively spent more and more time together. We went to date parties, tailgates, football games, the movies, dinner, and the Square (Texas State’s bar district). That fall semester was one of the best times of our life. To top it all off we brought in the 2014 New Year at The Driskill Hotel in Austin.”

— AJ

So, naturally, it makes sense that Kathryn & AJ decided on the Driskill as their wedding venue. For many reasons, I have always wanted to photograph a wedding at this gorgeous hotel. Not only was in smack dab in the middle of downtown Austin (as if that isn't reason enough), it is one of the most architecturally attractive buildings in the area & is only two blocks from Congress. The Driskill is one of the most iconic Austin landmarks & has a remarkable double grand staircase leading up to the breathtaking second floor above the lobby. This mezzanine level in the Driskill is where the tables and chairs were perfectly placed & decorated for the wedding guests to enjoy. How amazing is the groom's cake? It's a baseball with the New York Yankees logo- love it!

The mood was perfectly set while everyone was seated & the string trio began to play softly as the bridal party walked in slowly towards the altar. The ring bearer walked confidently down the isle and gave AJ a high five just before running to the side. Emotions ran high as the doors were closed just before Kathryn lined up behind them.

All guests were asked to stand as the doors were opened and the emotions started to fill the room as her father and step father both respectfully and lovingly walked their daughter down the isle. Everything had been leading up to this moment & it was absolutely perfect. Her father handed her to AJ to take as his new bride & as the ceremony unfolded, the two said their vows of love and commitment to one another. They sealed the deal with a kiss and as they turned to face their most loved and cherished friends and family, they were met with cheering, clapping and a few shouts of cheer to support their union. Everyone was so thrilled for the two & the group was ready to celebrate! 

The celebration was so much fun & I was so impressed when I found out not only was Kathryn's father a Texas State Alumni (Southwest Texas State when he attended), but Kathryn's grandfather was also an alumni as well back when it was called Southwest Texas State Teachers College! We all took a photo together to celebrate our university & to show our Bobcat Pride (Eat em' up!) The dance floor was packed the entire night and the live band was such a hit with everyone. 

Dear Kathryn & AJ, 

  I am so happy to have had y'all as my amazing clients & I am so grateful that we met! It was such a great time getting to know your love story and I especially appreciated that it all started because you met at Texas State. I had such an amazing time with your friends and family-everyone made me feel so welcomed and a part of the celebration. I am truly happy for you two. My wish is that when you look through your photos from your wedding day, you'll always be reminded of how amazing of a day it was. I hope that when you get in your first fight (& it will happen), I hope you can both take a look through these photos together and remember how much you love each other and how much fun you have with each other. My prayer for you both is that as every day that passes, you truly remember the feelings that were so apparent for each other on your wedding day and make an effort to show the other person that they are your number one priority over anyone else. I am so blessed to have you both in my life & I cannot wait to see where life takes you together. God bless you both & don't be strangers!

With Love,

Lyndsay

A special thanks to all the amazing vendors who made this wedding possible:

Photography: Lyndsay Lyon Photography

Venue: The Driskill Hotel

Florals: HEB Blooms

Coordination: Life Styled Events 

Catering: The Driskill Hotel 

Band & Ceremony String Trio: Royal Dukes Band 

Makeup & Hair: Blushed Beauty 

Cakes: 1886 Cafe & Bakery (Part of the Driskill Hotel)

Wedding Dress: BHLDN (Monica Gown)

Bride's Heels : Steve Madden

Bridesmaids Dresses: Vow To Be Chic (Theia Collection - Kaylee Gown) 

Groom & Groomsmen Suits : Joseph & Feiss (Rented from Men's Warehouse) 

360 Degrees

At 360 Bridge Lookout & Mayfield Park in Austin, Texas with Tyler + Vanessa

Vanessa & Tyler were so much fun to work with during our session! They decided on their first location for our session at the 360 bridge overlook, which I am very ashamed to admit, that I've never been to. I have been to the Mount Bonnell lookout spot, but there is something so special about being able to look over Austin's most famous bridge. I hope you enjoy these images as much as I enjoyed spending time getting to know my sweet clients even more.

The sun was absolutely stunning and this exact location where we were taking photos is where Tyler popped the question to ask Vanessa to be his wife. How amazing is that?

How cute are her outfits for this shoot? I absolutely love her dresses-check out the back of the light pink dress! Stunning! 

I had been seeing these pink flowered trees, also known as a cherry blossom tree, pop up at very random locations throughout Austin & I have been eagerly waiting for one to make an appearance for a photo shoot. I felt like I had hit the jackpot once we arrived at Mayfield Park because I walked in the gate and there stood one magnificent tree- fresh with pink flowers & ready to show off as a beautiful backdrop for our session. I am so glad we did, because I love having flowers grace the edges, corners and backgrounds of the images I capture. 

Vanessa & Tyler,

I can't wait for your wedding at Vista West Ranch in November! I truly had an amazing time with you both & I hope you take this time while you're engaged to cultivate and grow your thriving love for one another. Also, I wish you nothing but smooth wedding planning. In the meantime, take it easy, find time to be together and relax before your big day arrives. 

With Love,

Lyndsay