Josie and Ken's engagement At the Pearl in San Antonio, Texas.
It all started at a trade show where both Ken and Josie were working and offering their services. She noticed Ken, and could not help but pay attention to his smile. He noticed her over the several days they worked in close proximity. She decided to walk over and inquire about life insurance, and that first step would lead to a life long love.
As many couples do, they spent a lot of time in their early relationship enjoying the revitalized museum reach of the San Antonio Riverwalk scene. Our beautiful city of San Antonio offers so much to a couple getting to know one another. Soon their relationship blossomed and they decided to take the next step of marriage. We cannot wait to tell that love story in May of 2019.
Engaged in San AntonioKen and Josie at The Pearl in San Antonio, Texas.
San Antonio Museum ReachThe riverwalk extends from downtown San Antonio through the Museum Reach and up to The Pearl. We enjoy these beautified spaces for riverwalk engagement portraits. Stealing a kissKen has a real romantic side. Loving the sunlight through the trees overlooking the San Antonio Riverwalk behind the Hotel Emma.
F.I.S.H.Josie and Ken enjoy the San Antonio Riverwalk Museum reach under the Fish installation, the creation of Philadelphia artist Donald Lipski. These 7 foot internally lit fish are replica's of tiny long-eared sunfish, native to the river The LuxuryKen and Josie love to hang out at The Luxury on the San Antonio Riverwalk. Cold brews and great food! The world is theirsKen and Josie on the San Antonio Riverwalk
The Gardens at Old Town Helotes set the perfect scene for a Beauty and The Beast inspired wedding for Katie and Carlos. Subtle French storybook accents were featured throughout the gardens for the Disney-loving couple. The bride got ready at the onsite bridal cabin and greeted her adorable little boy before being surprised with a horse-drawn carriage by her dad. They enjoyed a father-daughter moment, taking a ride around Old Town Helotes before he walked her down the aisle in their romantic garden ceremony.
Katie and Carlos exchanged very personal vows, and I love that they ended their ceremony with the Star Wars Finale music. The couple danced under the twinkle lights on a pleasant Spring evening, enjoying their guests and the wonderful food by Spice of Life. Their cake toppers were life-like replicas of the bride and groom, a perfect keepsake from their perfect day. The groom's Iron Maiden Themed cake was a delicious bacon, bourbon chocolate. Loved the banana's foster bar by Spice of Life.
Congratulations to Katie and Carlos Lopez!
Venue: Gardens at Old Town Helotes
Caterer: Spice of Life
Cakes: Little Muse Catering and Cakes
Horse and Carriage: Yellow Rose
Floral: HEB Blooms
Gardens at Old Town HelotesThe bridal cabin at Gardens at Old Town Helotes is the perfect place to get ready for your big day Unique bridal styleKatie wore an off-the-shoulder lace dress fit for a princess, but chose a very practical bride sneaker to stay comfortable in her outdoor wedding venue. Bridal BouquetKatie held a cascading bridal bouquet with white roses, white lily of the valley, white calla lilies and a hint of purple garden lilies. Custom Wedding BandsKatie and Carlos designed their unique wedding bands. Tale as old as timeBeauty and the Beast Wedding at Gardens at Old Town Helotes. Beauty and the Beast Beauty and the Beast Wedding decor at Gardens at Old Town Helotes. Enchanted candelabraBeauty and the Beast Wedding decor at Gardens at Old Town Helotes. Floral TeacupEach table had it's own unique vignettes for this beauty and the beast wedding. Creative Seating ArrangementsEach guest found their seat by searching for their name with a key bottle opener. Be Our GuestBeauty and the Beast seating chart features wedding guest favors: key shaped bottle opener. Garden Wedding ReceptionEvery table featured a unique Beauty and the Beast inspired centerpiece. Katie and CarlosBeauty and the Beast Wedding at Gardens at Old Town Helotes. Wedding Day FunKatie and Carlos welcomed their younger guests with bubbles, coloring books and crayons to keep them busy. Gift from the brideKatie and Carlos both wear jewelry with the Fleur-de-lis to symbolize purity and light in their relationship. Bride getting readyKatie adjusts her lacy sleeves in the bridal cabin at Gardens at Old Town Helotes. The little princeKatie and Carlos' son arrives to see his mother getting ready for the big day. Sweet momentsKatie shares a moment with her adorable son before the wedding. Yellow RoseThe bride's father surprised her with a horse and carriage escort to the wedding ceremony. He picked her up and they took a Father-daughter ride around Old Town Helotes before he walked her down the aisle. Wedding Carriage RideThe bride's father surprised her with a horse and carriage escort to the wedding ceremony. He picked her up and they took a Father-daughter ride around Old Town Helotes before he walked her down the aisle. Princess EntranceThe bride's father surprised her with a horse and carriage escort to the wedding ceremony. He picked her up and they took a Father-daughter ride around Old Town Helotes before he walked her down the aisle. Katie and CarlosBeauty and the Beast Wedding at Gardens at Old Town Helotes. Mother of the groomBeauty and the Beast Wedding at Gardens at Old Town Helotes. Mother of the brideBeauty and the Beast Wedding at Gardens at Old Town Helotes. Matron of HonorBeauty and the Beast Wedding at Gardens at Old Town Helotes. Flower GirlPrincess Gianna threw fresh rose petals in preparation for the bride. Groom's first lookGroom Carlos gets a first look at his beauty as, Katie makes her way down the aisle. Down the aisleBride, Katie, makes her way down the aisle escorted by her dad. Bridal EntranceBeauty and the Beast Wedding at Gardens at Old Town Helotes. Katie and CarlosBeauty and the Beast Wedding at Gardens at Old Town Helotes. I always like to get a wide shot of the ceremony scene. Heartfeld vowsThe bride and groom wrote personal and unique vows from the heart and as is real life, took turns holding their adorable son. Family momentThe bride and groom wrote personal and unique vows from the heart and as is real life, took turns holding their adorable son. PromiseThe bride and groom wrote personal and unique vows from the heart and as is real life, took turns holding their adorable son. True loves kissBeauty and the Beast Wedding at Gardens at Old Town Helotes. We did it!The crowd cheered when Katie and Carlos walked up the aisle to the Star Wars fanfare theme. I LOVE STAR WARS FANS! Family affairKatie and Carlos just married and catching a ride on their horse-drawn carriage. Happily Ever AfterThe Lopez Family on a Yellow Rose Carriage at Gardens at Old Town Helotes. Bridesmaid StyleLilac bridesmaid dresses were perfect for this beauty and the beast theme garden wedding. Two families become oneFamily Formals at Gardens at Old Town Helotes. Katie and CarlosBeauty and the Beast Wedding at Gardens at Old Town Helotes. Katie and CarlosSpring Wedding Portraits at Gardens at Old Town Helotes. Katie and CarlosSpring Wedding Portraits at Gardens at Old Town Helotes. Katie and CarlosSpring Wedding Portraits at Gardens at Old Town Helotes. Adorable FamilySpring Wedding Portraits at Gardens at Old Town Helotes. Hand in handA stroll through the Gardens at Old Town Helotes. Katie and CarlosEnjoying a quiet moment before they rejoin their guests at The Gardens at Old Town Helotes Beautiful detailsFleur-de-lis candlestick at this Beauty and the Beast Wedding at Gardens at Old Town Helotes. Katie and CarlosBeauty and the Beast Wedding at Gardens at Old Town Helotes. Katie and CarlosBeauty and the Beast Wedding at Gardens at Old Town Helotes. The Spice of LifeThe food was phenomenal at Katie and Carlos' wedding. Catering by Spice of Life. Grand EntranceBeauty and the Beast Wedding at Gardens at Old Town Helotes. Personal Wedding CakeLife-like bride and groom cake toppers for Katie and Carlos's wedding cake by Little Muse Cakes. Groom cakeBacon, bourbon chocoloate cake by Little Muse. A toastA lighthearted toast by the best man at Katie and Carlos' wedding. Katie and CarlosBeauty and the Beast Wedding at Gardens at Old Town Helotes. Emotional toastThe bride's sister April offered an emotional toast at Gardens At Old Town Helotes. First DanceBeauty and the Beast Wedding at Gardens at Old Town Helotes. Katie and CarlosBeauty and the Beast Wedding at Gardens at Old Town Helotes. Katie and CarlosBeauty and the Beast Wedding at Gardens at Old Town Helotes. Father of the brideFather-daughter dance at a Beauty and the Beast Wedding at Gardens at Old Town Helotes. Mother Son momentCarlos and his mother share a laugh during their dance at Gardens at Old Town Helotes. Cut the cakeWedding Cake at Gardens at Old Town Helotes. That's so good!The bride enjoys a slice of the groom's Bacon, bourbon chocolate cake. Let's dance!Best friend and officiant was the first on the dance floor! Outdoor danceEnjoying a pleasant Texas evening at Gardens at Old Town Helotes. Kid-friendly weddingOurdoor dance floor at Gardens at Old Town Helotes, under the twinkling lights. Last DanceThe groom holds his bride close for one last dance at Gardens at Old Town Helotes. Katie and CarlosBeauty and the Beast Wedding at Gardens at Old Town Helotes. Katie and CarlosAn evening portrait for the Beauty and the Beast Wedding at Gardens at Old Town Helotes.
Helena and Brandon met by chance one day at the rec center for UTSA students. It was truely love at first sight for this young couple, but grew into a strong bond that through faith and the support of their families would prepare them for this emotional wedding day at Hayes Hollow at Hidden Falls. The couple chose to honor their faith by having Brandon's pastor and uncle officiate the ceremony. They chose their best friends, including their beloved dogs Red and Blue to stand with them as they took their vows overlooking the picturesque waterfall at this modern, rustic Texas venue.
Spring Wedding at Hayes Hollow, Hidden FallsA first look at this gorgeous new venue at Hidden Falls in Spring Branch, Texas. Letters to the brideHelena and her maid of honor Kylee look through a gift from the bridesmaids as she prepares for her wedding day with hair and makeup by Jax Studio. Bridal AccessoriesBridal Details Pearls for the BrideClassic Pearls for an elegant bride. Spring Wedding at Hayes Hollow, Hidden FallsHayes Hollow is perfectly styled for a modern rustic wedding using so many natural elements. I found this interesting crystal on a coffee table in an entryway and thought it to be the perfect space for a wedding ring shot! Spring Wedding at Hayes Hollow, Hidden Falls Spring Wedding at Hayes Hollow, Hidden Falls Spring Wedding at Hayes Hollow, Hidden Falls Spring Wedding at Hayes Hollow, Hidden Falls Botanika Floral DesignThe tall ceilings at Hayes Hollow Hidden Falls call for tall floral arrangements. I love how these minimalist narrow vases compliment the space and allow for a dinner conversation to not be obstructed. Five Tier Round CakeThis fresh floral, five tier, round cake was so simple and elegant. Spring Wedding at Hayes Hollow, Hidden Falls Acoustic VibesThe bride and groom asked their talented friend to sing their first dance song. Spring Wedding at Hayes Hollow, Hidden Falls Bridal PrepExpert Hair and Makeup by Jax Studio Ladies in waitingHelena's bridesmaids look on in anticipation as she completes her wedding day look. Cathedral VeilHelena's bridesmaids add the final touches with her cathedral veil to compliment her long lace train. Spring Wedding at Hayes Hollow, Hidden Falls Parent's First lookHelena waits for her Dad to see her in her wedding dress for the first time. Emotional first lookHelena's dad was overcome with emotion as he saw her for the first time in her wedding dress. Heartfelt momentHelena and her parents share a prayer and then a laugh before they walk her down the aisle. Mother's blessingHelena's mom offers her strength during an emotional moment. The detailsTwo families become one on this special day. Natural elementsA walnut stained cross adorned with fresh cascading creamy flowers was a simple altar for the wedding ceremony at Hayes Hollow. Guests of HonorHelena and Brandon's dogs were walked down the aisle to witness the wedding ceremony. Pet Friendly WeddingIn addition to a cigar bar, Helena and Brandon provided dog treats as wedding favors at their pet-friendly wedding. Spring Wedding at Hayes Hollow, Hidden Falls Guests of honorRed is escorted down the aisle at this pet-friendly wedding. Inside jokeThe best man kept the moment light as he shared a laugh with the maid of honor. Here comes the brideFlower girl drops white petals in preparation for the bride. Ring BearerHe did such a good job! Large bridal partyHelena and Brandon chose 16 bridesmaids, 14 groomsmen, 2 dogs and a flower girl and ring bearer to witness their wedding ceremony at Hayes Hollow. Father of the BrideThis has to be the hardest moment for a father to walk his only daughter down the aisle. Groom's first lookBrandon gets a first glimpse of his beautiful bride. BrideHelena makes her way down the aisle with her father. Hold on a little longerHelena and her father embrace before he gives her hand to Brandon. JoyHelena is fully at ease when she looks into Brandon's eyes. Spring Wedding at Hayes Hollow, Hidden Falls PromiseBrandon takes his vows with Helena. Let it all fall awayHelena places a wedding ring on Brandon as a symbol of their never ending love, with the falls of Hayes Hollow in the background. RedThe couples dog looks on as the wedding ceremony concludes. First KissBrandon and Helena share a first kiss as husband and wife. Spring Wedding at Hayes Hollow, Hidden FallsThe beautiful new couple makes their way down the aisle. Spring Wedding at Hayes Hollow, Hidden Falls Wedding gamesGuests are entertained by cocktails and lawn games while the couple takes family photos. Cocktail HourGuests enjoy snacks and drinks prior to the reception at Hayes Hollow. Hernandez FamilyHelena's beautiful family Brandon's girlsBrandon's mom helped to plan so much of the wedding with Helena. Bridal PartyHelena's bridesmaids and flower girl. Spring Wedding at Hayes Hollow, Hidden Falls Mr. and Mrs. OxendineBrandon and Helena share a quick moment before they head into their reception. Hayes Hollow Wedding ReceptionReception hall set up for a buffet dinner. Fun bridal partyThe bridal party created a fun party vibe for the reception. Introducing....Mr. & Mrs. Oxendine are introduced for the first time. Dinner prayerThe bridal party takes a moment to pray before they enjoy their reception dinner. ToastEmotional toast from Helena's childhood friend. Spring Wedding at Hayes Hollow, Hidden Falls The Best ManHe kept them laughing during his toast to Brandon and Helena. Fun wedding toastsThe wedding couple keeping it light with their best man's toast. Cheers!The wedding couple toasts. Spring Wedding at Hayes Hollow, Hidden Falls Spring Wedding at Hayes Hollow, Hidden Falls Spring Wedding at Hayes Hollow, Hidden Falls Cut the Cake5 Tier Wedding Cake at Hidden Falls. First DanceThe Oxendines danced to a song performed by a family friend. Father daughter danceI love how hard this man loves his daughter. Spring Wedding at Hayes Hollow, Hidden Falls In Memoriam"We know you would be here today if heaven wasn't so far away." Get the party startedReception at Hayes Hollow. Kicking it upOn the dance floor at Hayes Hollow. Spring Wedding at Hayes Hollow, Hidden FallsI love it when the parents of the bride still got it for each other! They were out on the dance floor all night. Sorority SistersIt's a tradition. Childhood friendsHelena dances the night away with her best friend. GrandparentsHelena's grandparents on the dance floor. Sparkler Send OffWedding guests send off Brandon and Helena with a spark. The EndWedding guests send off the couple with a sparkler send off. Congratulations to the beautiful coupleMay your love be as beautiful each day you share as it is on this day of Your Wedding and may all of your wishes come true.
Venue: Hayes Hollow, Hidden Falls
Hair and Makeup by Jax Studio
Bride's dress and accessories found at Bella Bride Boutique in Stone Oak.
Katie Padron-Lopez wore a bridal gown fit for a princess at her wedding this week. We shot her bridal portraits at the enchanting Gardens at Cranesbury View in December 2017.
Beauty in the GardenKatie's bridal portrait at Gardens at Cranesbury View in New Braunfels, Texas
Stunning BrideThe detail in Katie's dress could be enjoyed from every angle.
Into the lightKatie was a gorgeous beauty in her wedding gown.
Let's talk about how to look amazing in your bridal portraits! Leave a comment below and tell me how you wish to be photographed!
Your wedding is just a few months away, and it's time to prepare for your bridal session! What's a bridal session? It's a photoshoot we do prior to the wedding day with the goal of having a featured portrait for your wedding reception. It's a Texas thing for sure! The wedding day can be very hectic and sometimes there isn't enough time to slow down and create a really beautiful portrait of the bride, so scheduling a photoshoot prior to the wedding day can ensure you get to preserve your bridal moment without the stress.
How to look amazing in your bridal portraitTess Osborn, a San Antonio Bride at the McNay Art Museum
After you have found your dress, be sure to order it and have all alterations and fittings complete at least six weeks prior to the wedding. This way you can schedule your bridal session at least a month prior to the wedding. Some brides find that after wearing their dress during the hour-long session, they find details they would like to tweak before the wedding day.
Bridal PerfectionYour dress may inspire the bridal shoot location.
The bridal session becomes a dress rehearsal, allowing you to perfect your wedding day look. Also, your wedding gown may inspire the location for your bridal portraits. If you're wearing an elegant ball gown you may opt for an indoor ballroom location, or if you're wearing a long train, you may want an outdoor open area to allow you to feature that elegant lace. You may be a cowgirl boot wearing bride that belongs on a Texas ranch location. You'll know when you've got the dress!
Ballroom BrideElegant bride, Angelica Melendez at Southwest School of Art.
I don't require that my brides hire a hair and makeup artist, but the photoshoot goes so much more smoothly when they do! Local hair and makeup pros have the expertise to create a bridal look that will last in the Texas heat. A majority of our bridal shoots happen in the spring, and even then it can be humid and hot, so it's important to have photo-ready makeup that will withstand an hour-long photoshoot. Here are some of our recommended makeup pros!
Rebekah Navarette featured above!
Bren Betico at Indulgences Hair Salon
The wedding date and the bridal shoot can sneak up on you during your whirlwind engagement. Make sure to try on your dress, including undergarments and accessories to make sure all necessary adjustments are made with enough time for your seamstress. Try on your bridal shoes and your veil. Practice bustling and unbustling your dress and time it! It's very helpful to know how much time it takes to achieve your wedding day look not only for your portrait session but also for the wedding day. Wedding dress tip: if you have several buttons going down the back of your dress, bring a crochet hook to help with grabbing those fasteners. Works great for the bustle buttons, too!
Throughout your engagement be sure to take care of yourself. Wedding planning can be stressful, but be sure to take time for exercise, eating healthy nutritious foods, staying hydrated, and getting plenty of sleep. You want your portraits to feature your glowing face, gorgeous skin, and healthy smile. Also, I would advise against a night out at the bar the day before your bridal shoot. Do have that fun night a little more in advance, but then give yourself a day at the spa instead. Treat yourself!
For the complete bridal look be sure to bring all the accessories you plan to wear on your wedding day to the bridal portrait shoot. Bring your wedding ceremony shoes, but also bring a pair of easy slip-on shoes to walk around in as we move from location to location. Make sure to bring your hair accessories, and the jewelry you plan to wear. We want to capture all those gorgeous details! Also, bring a bouquet. Even if it's not the exact bouquet you will have on the wedding day, it's important to have an accessory for posing with your hands. Many florists offer a smaller version of your wedding bouquet just for the bridal photoshoot. HEB blooms can also create an all-white bouquet that will not distract from the bride.
Bridal DetailsDon't forget your accessories! Bring everything you intend to wear on your wedding day to your bridal shoot. Bridal BouquetFresh Fall bouquet by HEB Blooms.
Don't forget the bouquet!An all white bouquet is perfect for your bridal photos!
This last tip is my main responsibility! Throughout the photoshoot I am finding the best light, putting you in it and positioning you to show your best self! This is my jam, and my brides know it when I start cheering and jumping up and down during a photoshoot. They know I'm getting gorgeous images, and it's all because my bride came prepared for the photoshoot of her life!
Beautiful BrideHappy bride at Southwest School of Art in San Antonio, Texas.
I hope these tips will help you to prepare for your bridal photoshoot. To see some of our favorite portrait locations, follow me on Pinterest!