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We created this list of some things you & your guests can do in and around Albuquerque during your wedding weekend! If you are a New Mexico bride/groom-to-be, feel free to cut + paste directly to your wedding website so your out of town guests can experience the best of the city while they aren't busy celebrating you! THINGS TO DO IN ABQ THE SANDIA PEAK AERIAL TRAMWAY "Rising from the hustle and bustle of Albuquerque, you ascend one of America’s most stunning urban peaks, reaching the 10,378-foot crest of the Sandia Mountains where an 11,000 square mile panoramic view awaits. " Your more active guests can hit the trails here, too! ABQ BIO PARK The ABQ Bio Park has a zoo, botanic garden, aquarium, and a "beach". This is a great place for guests with children to come visit, or just great for your nature loving friends! OLD TOWN "The historic heart of Albuquerque is Old Town Plaza, where the pace slows and pedestrians find refuge from fast traffic. Old Town's official beginning took place on April 23, 1706, when Francisco Cuervo y Valdés, the Spanish governor of New Mexico, certified the founding of the Villa de Alburquerque. Spain's Laws of the Indies, in effect at the time, required setting a plaza at the center of any villa. Centered around the plaza, Albuquerque's Old Town comprises about ten blocks of historic adobe buildings. On the north side of the plaza is the San Felipe de Neri Church, the oldest building in the city, built in 1793. More than 100 stores and galleries feature a wide variety of Southwestern artwork, including jewelry, sculpture, paintings, weaving and pottery. In addition, the Albuquerque Museum, New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science, and Explora Science Center and Children's Museum are all located just to the east of Old Town, showcasing world-class exhibits." CASINOS Maybe your wedding guests can win big & put that money toward the honeymoon fund you have set up on your wedding website - you never know! Some popular casinos to visit in ABQ include: Sandia Isleta Route 66 BALLOON FIESTA The chances might be pretty high that your wedding is in October - given it's one of the most popular months for weddings with it's beautiful fall weather! Every October, the city hosts their annual Albuquerque International Balloon Festival - which includes colorful hot air balloons, live music, rodeos, and more. This could be an awesome experience for you and your guests (and make for some really cool photos!), but also should be something to keep in mind to make sure your guests book accommodations early to beat the tourists traveling in. This year's Fiesta is October 1st-9th. PETROGLYPHS "The Petroglyph National Monument protects one of the largest petroglyph sites in North America, featuring designs and symbols carved onto volcanic rocks by Native Americans and Spanish settlers 400 to 700 years ago. These images are a valuable record of cultural expression and hold profound spiritual significance for contemporary Native Americans and for the descendants of the early Spanish settlers." EXPLORA Explora is an "innovative experiential learning center" located in Old Town - basically, it's a fun and educational place your guests can take their kids to while in town! NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM The New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science has 8 permanent exhibits, changing temporary exhibits, and a planetarium to enjoy! NOB HILL "Nob Hill is a vibrant district with eclectic shops, swanky dining and chic nightspots. Its Route 66 architecture and neon signs, combined with predominantly locally owned shops, galleries and restaurants, make Nob Hill a hip and fashionable area." UPTOWN ABQ Uptown features upscale shopping and chain restaurants - it's where any of your out-of-town guests can go if they forgot to pack a suit for the wedding! BETTY'S BATH The perfect place for your guests to get a massage the day after giving it their all on the dance floor! THINGS TO EAT SAWMILL MARKET Sawmill Market is located in the heart of the Sawmill District - which used to be the site of the American Lumber Company north of historic Old Town. It's a renovated warehouse with an urban, open concept and outdoor eating space full of local merchants - from tacos to BBQ to wine to ice cream - making it a trendy place that all of your different guests can find something they like to eat while experiencing local ABQ cuisine. DIONS Pizza, salad, & subs. And pro-tip: dip ALL of it in their ranch. FRONTIER & GOLDEN PRIDE Sister restaurants and ABQ classics. WECKS Who doesn't love a good breakfast?! THE RANGE If you know anything about New Mexico, then you probably know food is ALLLL about green chile. The Range featured a Green Chile Stew that is a must try, especially if your guests want to live like a local. PAPA FELIPE'S Home-cooked Mexican food - need we say more? GREEN JEANS FOOD PLACE "Albuquereque's original shipping container marketplace, Green Jeans Food Hall has something for everyone, featuring the Santa Fed Brewing Co. Taproom & twelve other local merchants." THINGS TO DRINK BREWERIES BOSQUE BREWING CO. MARBLE BREWERY LA CUMBRE THINGS TO DO OUTSIDE OF ABQ SANTA FE Loretto Chapel Staircase Snowboarding Meow Wolf The Santa Fe Opera Eat at The Pantry for breakfast Tinkertown Museum Ojo Caliente - natural hot springs TAOS Taos Rio Grande Gorge Bridge RED RIVER ANGEL FIRE Skiing SANTA ROSA Blue Hole BANDELIER NATIONAL MONUMENT KASHA-KATUWE TENT ROCKS NATIONAL MONUMENT DOWN SOUTH Carlsbad Caverns (bats!) Roswell (Area 51 AKA aliens!) White Sands National Park Photography: @mollymorganphotography

Ashley Nicole Affair / Austin Wedding Planners It’s actually hard to put into words how much love Natalie and Brad were surrounded with on their wedding day. They had all of Hotel Ella reserved for their wedding, their guests, and we would probably imagine that wasn’t even half of the people who were present. It goes to show you how loved a couple is when it takes over a minute to get them introduced into the reception because they are being stopped to hug, high five, and greet each guest as they walk in. Our favorite things about the night were their wedding were their florals & overall wedding color palette. It was great to see Shandee, from the Bloom Bar, before the ceremony as she was putting together their beautiful arrangements - and we had coordinated her wedding one week prior! Check it out here! It is undeniably obvious the love that Natalie and Brad have for each other. We watched the words come out of their mouth as they recited their vows and promise to love each other. We had no idea that the Monday after the wedding, their vows would already be tested as they got home and quickly found out that Brad had been diagnosed with T-Cell Lymphoblastic Lymphoma. When the newlyweds should have been on an airplane to Thailand, they had to change their plans and immediately start Brad on radiation, as well as chemotherapy in an attempt to destroy a baseball sized mass in his chest. From October to November, they had already emotionally endured more than an average couple would experience in a lifetime. Through the radiation and chemotherapy, they got through Thanksgiving and Christmas together, while also finally moving into their new forever home. Natalie is standing strong by Brad’s side, being his biggest cheerleader throughout his journey. He has already finished 18 treatments of radiation and is already mapping out the next treatment plan to beat cancer. You can follow their updates and provide them strength by visiting the blog Natalie updates frequently at: ​>> https://www.lovecherishinsicknessandinhealth.com/ Natalie and Brad’s love story is a simple reminder to enjoy your wedding, embrace the new memories being made, and presently live in the moment. We feel incredibly honored to have been a part of their perfect day and will continue to cheer for Team Brad! Venue: Hotel Ella | Photography: Captivating Weddings | Wedding Planner: Ashley Nicole Affair | Florist: The Bloom Bar | Hair + Makeup: Bonita Brides | Band: Royal Dukes Band | Cake: Sweet Treets Bakery | Desserts: Steel City Pops | Videography: Ladybird Studios

Planning: @ashleynicoleaffair⁠ Photography:⁠ @barefoottim⁠ Venue, Catering + Bar: @southcongresshotel⁠ Florist: @jordanflowersevent⁠ Hair/MUA: @luxbeautyandbridal⁠ DJ + Lighting: @thepremieraustindjs⁠ Rentals: @panaceacollective; @premiereeventstx; @lootrentals⁠ Guest Book: @afterthetone.co⁠

Featured on The Knot Planning: @ashleynicoleaffair⁠ Photography: @sarahkjphotography⁠ Venue: @southcongresshotel Florist: @blumenfloral⁠ Hair/MUA: @dolledbyv⁠ Catering, Bar + Cake: @southcongresshotel⁠ (@cafenoseatx)⁠ DJ: @gainesentertainment Musicians: @terravistastrings Videography: @wildrosephotostudio⁠ Dress: @bylillianwest (from @langsbridal)⁠ Photo Booth: @pixstertexas (@pixsterphotobooth)⁠ Signage: @greengirlatx

Photography: @moodyography | Planning: @ashleynicoleaffair | Ceremony Venue: @saintmaryc | Reception Venue, Catering & Bar: @southcongresshotel | Florist: @fleuraffairco | Hair/MUA: @katyreddellbeauty | DJ: @thepremieraustindjs | Transportation: @limosofaustin

CHECK OUT ALL OF OUR FEATURED TOURS! About the Historic Austin wedding venue and hotel; The Driskill , The Driskill Hotel... The Driskill Mezzanine (5,634 square feet) Spanning the second level of the hotel, the opulent Driskill Mezzanine boasts elegant décor mirroring the timeless lobby, lined with the same stunning, hand-painted columns and marble floors. Weddings hosted on The Driskill Mezzanine reserve exclusive use of the space, including The Mezzanine Foyer, The Driskill Ballroom, The Maximilian Room, Jim Hogg Parlor, Austin Room, Governor's Boardroom, two covered outdoor balconies, and five guestroom suites. Ceremony space is also included and is often hosted in The Driskill Ballroom or on The Mezzanine Foyer. The Driskill Ballroom This premier, unique venue once was home to the American National Bank of Austin and Austin’s first television and radio stations. Designed in a Victorian style, this room features a staircase, stained glass windows, and iron railings crafted from the bank’s original settings. An outdoor balcony offers an additional 1,276 square feet of space. Wedding ceremony is included in the Crystal Room complimentary. The Maximillian Room Spanning the second level of the hotel, the opulent Driskill Mezzanine boasts elegant décor mirroring the timeless lobby, lined with the same stunning, hand-painted columns and marble floors. Weddings hosted on The Driskill Mezzanine reserve exclusive use of the space, including The Mezzanine Foyer, The Driskill Ballroom, The Maximilian Room, Jim Hogg Parlor, Austin Room, Governor's Boardroom, two covered outdoor balconies, and five guestroom suites. Ceremony space is also included and is often hosted in The Driskill Ballroom or on The Mezzanine Foyer. The Crystal Room Spanning the second level of the hotel, the opulent Driskill Mezzanine boasts elegant décor mirroring the timeless lobby, lined with the same stunning, hand-painted columns and marble floors. Weddings hosted on The Driskill Mezzanine reserve exclusive use of the space, including The Mezzanine Foyer, The Driskill Ballroom, The Maximilian Room, Jim Hogg Parlor, Austin Room, Governor's Boardroom, two covered outdoor balconies, and five guestroom suites. Ceremony space is also included and is often hosted in The Driskill Ballroom or on The Mezzanine Foyer. The Victorian Room This premier, unique venue once was home to the American National Bank of Austin and Austin’s first television and radio stations. Designed in a Victorian style, this room features a staircase, stained glass windows, and iron railings crafted from the bank’s original settings. An outdoor balcony offers an additional 1,276 square feet of space. Wedding ceremony is included in the Crystal Room complimentary.

"The Wayback is a casual boutique hotel 15 minutes west of downtown. Our style here is friendly, comfortable and classic. Surrounded by hills and a big Texas sky, The Wayback is a place to feel the breeze, be carefree and linger.  Eight classic board-and-batten cottages sit peacefully under the live oaks. Interiors are outfitted with a laid-back luxury, combining organic textiles, a bit of vintage, and lots of comfort. The patio and outdoor lawns are perfect for dining alfresco. Lounge poolside and cool off in the heat of a Texas summer, or warm-up on a cool night while making s'mores around the fire. The Wayback mingles with nature, inviting travelers to do the same." Learn more about The Wayback on their website here.

Planning + Design: Ashley Nicole Affair | Photography: Dani Quiroz | Venue: Villa Antonia | Hair/MUA: Lux Beauty and Bridal | Florals: The Bloom Bar | Catering & Bartending: Rosemary's Catering | Baker/Cake: Orchid Cakes & Desserts | Musicians: Angelic Strings | DJ: Made from Skratch | Rentals + Photo Booth: Ashley Nicole Affair | Lounge: Party at the Moontower | Videography: Cloud Craft Studios | Officiant: Celebrations by Phillip | Transportation: Nikki's Worldwide

Planning: @ashleynicoleaffair⁠ Photography: @twopairphoto⁠ Venue: @wildflowercenter⁠ Florist: @persephonefloraldesign⁠ Catering, Bar + Desserts: @royalfigcatering⁠ Hair/MUA: @cassidyeliseartistry⁠ Lighting: @brightersideeventlighting⁠ Rentals: @marquee_rents ; @thevintagelaundry⁠ DJ: @officialinfinitysoundlab⁠ Videography: @peterzunigaproductions⁠ ⁠

CHECK OUT ALL OF OUR FEATURED TOURS! Here are our top venue tours for 2022! We are featuring some of the most popular venues in Austin, TX and surrounding areas and in case you missed it last year, here's the blog link to our 2021 venue tours! One of our favorite parts of wedding planning is getting to know other vendors, including the beautiful wedding venues across Austin + beyond. The more we see & learn about each venue, the more we're able to recommend the right venue to fit each couple we plan for - and being able to do so is something we truly enjoy & take pride in. We've taken our instagram followers with us on several virtual venue tours this year, and now we're recapping our favorite parts about each venue that we've gotten the chance to know better this year....While this isn't an extensive list of the venues we love and recommend, it is a list of the ones we've spent one on one time with in 2022. So - in alphabetical order because we can't possibly pick a favorite - here's a Year in Review of Venue Tours to help you find a venue that's right for you! Venue Sketch: Green Girl Design Co. (Camp Lucy - Ian's Chapel) THE ALLAN HOUSE - AUSTIN, TEXAS "The Allan House is a charming Victorian home built in 1883. Embellished with native Texas blossoms and century-old oak trees, it is ideally suited for weddings and special events." - The Allan House Our Favorite Part: The Winter Tent According to The Allan House website - "During the months of December, January and February, the Winter Tent is included with all of our event rentals. The luxury tent covers the entire outdoor courtyard space and allows for warm and inviting events to take place in the outdoor areas of our venue, even during the (sometimes) chilly winter months. The clear top and side walls allow for natural light to pour into the space, while the trees and foliage of the courtyard provide a beautiful, lush backdrop - all while your guests are kept comfortable and warm in the heated & enclosed structure." ​**See more photos here on one of our past wedding blogs! BARR MANSION - AUSTIN, TEXAS "Situated just fifteen minutes outside of downtown Austin, Barr Mansion is a large estate offering sprawling, landscaped gardens and grounds and several charming buildings designed to hold various capacities for guests. Striking, thoughtfully-designed settings offer options for both outdoor and indoor wedding ceremonies, as well as seamless rain plans. The 124-year old Victorian Mansion serves as a space for wedding parties to relax and get ready in prior to the ceremony. The Artisan Ballroom is a stunning building with up to 40-foot tall walls of glass, allowing indoor receptions or ceremonies to take on the beauty of the outside. And the Farmstead is a newly-constructed, modern take on a pavilion to allow even more flexibility for how to use our expansive estate." - Barr Mansion Our Favorite Part: The Windows The design of the Artisan Ballroom is stunningly unique, and the floor to ceiling windows covering the facade of the building are beautifully reflective, and incredibly eye catching, no matter what season or time of day. They look gorgeous with the sunset, and just as gorgeous in the evening against the string lights or when sparklers at the grand exit reflect. ​​**See more photos here on one of our past wedding blogs! BRODIE HOMESTEAD - AUSTIN, TEXAS "With the perfect balance of rustic charm and modern elegance, Brodie Homestead will provide an unforgettable backdrop for your event." - Brodie Homestead Our Favorite Part: The Chandeliers There are six stunning chandeliers hanging throughout the barn at Brodie Homestead. The vaulted ceilings provide the perfect home for these statement pieces. They look beautiful in full room shots of the ceremony! ​​**See more photos here on one of our past wedding blogs! CAMP LUCY - DRIPPING SPRINGS, TEXAS "Elegant, unique, and artistically detailed, our Texas Hill Country wedding venues offer picture-perfect settings for celebrations of love. Camp Lucy is home to three truly unique, elegant Hill Country venues, each with its own special features but all with the impeccable design and service that are the hallmarks of Camp Lucy." - Colton House Hotel Our Favorite Part: The Vineyard The vineyard is a newer venue location at Camp Lucy - which holds multiple venue locations across the large property for couples with all tastes - and is home to a gorgeous 4,000-square-foot Savannah Tent by Sperry. The tent has a 360 degree view of the Camp Lucy vineyard. This intimate venue space feels like an immediate transport to wine country. ​​**See more photos here on one of our past wedding blogs! CANYONWOOD RIDGE - DRIPPING SPRINGS, TEXAS "Canyonwood Ridge is unique and romantic with its dramatic views and Hill Country elegance, but maintains a balance of simplicity and flexibility for couples to plan their perfect day." - Canyonwood Ridge Our Favorite Part: The Chapel According to the Canyonwood Ridge website - "Our Chapel enables a picturesque indoor ceremony site protected against the weather by "bringing the outside in" through large windows and lots of natural light, but also allows multi-use of that space when the ceremony is outdoors. The Chapel in essence provides an "insurance policy against the weather" by taking out the stress of what your ceremony will look like if the weather doesn't cooperate for an outdoor wedding!" ​​**See more photos here on one of our past wedding blogs! COMMODORE PERRY ESTATE - AUSTIN, TEXAS "Curated events designed to entertain and inspire evoking the unique culture of Austin. We help make memories, beginning with our understated service and our exceptional location on nearly 10 secluded acres in the heart of Austin. Our venues and accommodations give you space to connect with one another." - Commodore Perry Estate Our Favorite Part: The Sunken Gardens The sunken gardens are "11,000 square feet of manicured grounds is the largest space on the Estate." This is a unique space that is ideal for outdoor ceremonies, cocktail receptions, or intimate-feeling dinner parties. THE GRAND LADY - MANOR, TEXAS "A mere 14 miles outside of Austin, this historic-mansion-turned-wedding-venue is set on nearly 20 acres of Texas land and provides the perfect backdrop for your wedding or special event. Built as a wedding gift in 1881, The Grand Lady’s ornamental woodwork and stained glass windows have been maintained and updated with fidelity to the original vision, while the furnishings embrace modern style and function. It is our mission to offer homestyle hospitality for modern couples who value intentional venue organization, a rich history, and ornate details." - The Grand Lady Our Favorite Part: The "At Home" Feel The mansion on this venue's property is meant to be a place for the couple & their wedding party to spend all day, feeling cozy and "at home". It's composed of multiple rooms, all decorated with unique, vintage pieces that make us wish our own homes were decorated in this way. It's the perfect space to feel comfortable and calm any pre-wedding jitters before your guests arrive onsite to experience the intimate feel of the property. HUMMINGBIRD HOUSE - AUSTIN, TEXAS "Conveniently located in South Austin, Hummingbird House is the quintessential Garden Venue! Feel far away from the ordinary in a true oasis of lush greens, blooming tropical flowers and large palms." - Hummingbird House Our Favorite Part: The Gazebo The venue is full of lush garden, but the greenery that caught our eyes (and noses) the most was the ceremony gazebo. We came by in the springtime, and it was covered in fresh jasmine blooms! ​​**See more photos here on one of our past wedding blogs! HOTEL ELLA - AUSTIN, TEXAS "Your celebration can be the next chapter in an over 100-year-old legacy of style and grace when you host your wedding or soirée at Hotel Ella. From the intimate Parlor Bar to the idyllic front lawn, Hotel Ella’s beautifully designed indoor and outdoor event spaces provide the perfect backdrop for any social gathering, including weddings, cocktail receptions, fundraisers, galas, milestone birthdays and more." - Hotel Ella Our Favorite Part: The Pool ​ While the entire historic hotel is full of beautiful spots, the pool is a favorite for us because it creates a unique cocktail area space & design! We've seen couples fill the pool with balloons and utilize it as a focal point for their cocktail hour. ​**See more photos here on one of our past wedding blogs! THE LINE - AUSTIN, TEXAS "A beautiful setting, the love of your community, and an unforgettable party—your big day is one of life’s biggest landmarks. With stunning views of Lady Bird Lake, the LINE sets the perfect stage for any couple." - The Line Our Favorite Part: The View Centrally located at the crossroads of Downtown and Lady Bird Lake, the event spaces within the Line hotel have great views of the city. We love heading up to P6, the rooftop cocktail bar located inside the hotel, which has THE view of the city & water for your out of town guests. It's a gorgeous spot for wedding weekend cocktails for your guests, or a photo backdrop for your first look! ​**See more photos here on one of our past wedding blogs! MATTIE'S - AUSTIN, TEXAS "Generations of families have celebrated a special occasion in our beautifully lit 2,300 square foot ‘hall.’ The south and east galleries feature stunning walls of wood doors and windows, which provide abundant natural light by day and warm, ambient light into the evening." - Mattie's Our Favorite Part: The Peacocks You read that right! Mattie's is not only a local restaurant and a wedding venue, but it's also home to a small population of wild peacocks right in the heart of the city. ​**See more photos here on one of our past wedding blogs! POSEY MEADOWS - SAN MARCOS, TEXAS "Posey Meadows is a modern & bright French farmhouse inspired wedding and events venue nestled in the Texas Hill Country." - Posey Meadows Our Favorite Part: The Windows The floor to ceiling windows at the back of the reception hall let in the perfect natural lighting and views of the hill country against the bright white interior. This creates the ideal blank slate for any kind of decor you can imagine, and helps make for GREAT photos on your wedding day! STONEHOUSE VILLA - AUSTIN, TEXAS "Stonehouse Villa was created by interior designers that fell in love with Driftwood, TX and its charming community. Our beautiful solid limestone property combined with our design aesthetic and experience offer a modern sophistication to the Hill Country Wedding experience." - Stonehouse Villa Our Favorite Part: The Sounds of the Hill Country Don't get us wrong, this entire property LOOKS beautiful too, but what stuck out to us the most and set Stonehouse Villa apart from other venues was the specific ambiance created when the large wall of windows in the reception hall is opened up to create that indoor-outdoor feel. Not only does it let your guests see the beautiful hill country views more clearly, give everyone some nice fresh air while dancing, and let in more natural light, but it let in the prettiest sounds of birds chirping and wind blowing during our tour that reminded us just how beautiful Texas is. VILLA ANTONIA - JONESTOWN, TEXAS "Nestled amongst the breathtaking landscape of the Texas Hill Country sits Villa Antonia. We are a premiere Hill Country wedding venue and event space. Located just northwest of Austin, you and your guests will feel like they have been transported to a mediterranian escape. Sweeping views of the Hill Country and old world charm make Villa Antonia a venue like no other. Our guests never forget their time at the Villa, which makes us a top choice for wedding venues in and around Austin, TX." - Villa Antonia Our Favorite Part: The Mediterranean Feel Last, but CERTAINLY not least is a venue we love to plan weddings at - Villa Antonia. The colors, textures, and architecture throughout the venue feel like we've been transported to Europe (if it weren't for the breathtaking views of the hill country, that is). There is no shortage of beautiful photo backdrops at this venue! ​**See more photos here on one of our past wedding blogs! Venue Information: The Allan House | Barr Mansion | Brodie Homestead | Camp Lucy | Canyonwood Ridge | Commodore Perry Estate | The Grand Lady | Hummingbird House | Hotel Ella | The Line | ​Mattie's | Posey Meadows | Stonehouse Villa | Villa Antonia

CHECK OUT ALL OF OUR FEATURED TOURS! One of our favorite parts of wedding planning is getting to know other vendors, including the beautiful wedding venues across Austin + beyond. The more we see & learn about each venue, the more we're able to recommend the right venue to fit each couple we plan for - and being able to do so is something we truly enjoy & take pride in. We've taken our instagram followers with us on several virtual venue tours this year, and now we're recapping our favorite parts about each venue that we've gotten the chance to know better this year....While this isn't an extensive list of the venues we love and recommend, it is a list of the ones we've spent one on one time with in 2023 - from Austin to Houston to Denver. So - in alphabetical order because we can't possibly pick a favorite - here's a Year in Review of Venue Tours to help you find a venue that's right for you! **And in case you missed the last two years of tours, here's the blogs for our 2021 venue tours & 2022 venue tours! ** BELLA OAKS - AUSTIN, TX "Bella Oaks Venue is the ultimate event venue with a complete Austin outdoor, garden venue feel. The venue is set up to hold both small intimate garden ceremonies, as well as large events in the spacious Towering Oaks area." - Bella Oaks Our Favorite Part: The Twinkle Lights The Oak Lawn - where most couples say their vows - holds gorgeous oak trees covered with twinkly lights to brighten up all the moments that happen, and create a magical space for nighttime as well. ​**See more photos here on our past wedding blogs! THE FARMHOUSE - HOUSTON, TX "The Farmhouse is conveniently located a short distance from Houston, The Woodlands, Conroe, Brenham, and College Station. The 45 acres of rolling hills, private lake, and adjacent equestrian center will provide countless backdrops for photos with family and friends. With only one event per day, you and your guests will be able savor the celebration down to the last dance!" - The Farmhouse Our Favorite Part: The Private Lake This venue is full of natural light and white backdrops, so there's plenty of places for beautiful photos, A private lake is something that all venues definitely don't have though, and it's perfect for your newlywed portraits (especially with a gorgeous Texas sunset!) GRUENE ESTATE - NEW BRAUNFELS, TX "The original Gruene Family Farm of Ernst & Antoinette Gruene spreads over 17 secluded acres between Historic Gruene and New Braunfels, Texas. Since 1852, this home has been a sincere labor of love. Our family continues the Gruene family tradition by preserving the history and adding beauty with modern elegance to our venue. The original open-air chapel is stunning and intimate, surrounded by nature. The modern farmhouse covered pavilion embodies all the beauty of the venue, adding fun and everlasting memories." - Gruene Estate Our Favorite Part: The Open Air PavillionsBoth the ceremony space and the reception hall are open-air, and let in all the beauty of natural light and hill country views! Plus, the open air chapel has gorgeous archways and stain glass windows that add to the unique beauty of this natural New Braunfels venue. HILL COUNTRY BLISS - BERTRAM, TX "Hill Country Bliss Wedding & Event Venue is designed for premier events. With an elegant layout that captures the charm of Texas Hill Country and a modern design, Hill Country Bliss Wedding & Event Venue is proud to promise that any event taking place here makes for an unforgettable experience." - Hill Country Bliss Our Favorite Part: The Open-Air Chapel The open air chapel lets in so much beautiful natural light for photos, and the prettiest backdrop views of the hill country! Not much decor is needed to make this a stunning ceremony spot. HOTEL ZAZA - AUSTIN, TX "Bring your dream wedding to life in the heart of Austin’s vibrant downtown at Hotel ZaZa. Our collection of elegant Austin wedding venues offer an ideal setting for celebrations of all sizes, from small ceremonies to blowout receptions. Planning your big day is a breeze at Hotel ZaZa. Our team of experienced wedding planners will help you every step of the way as you get ready to say “I do.” From choosing the venue and reserving group room blocks to customizing the catering menu, your wedding day is sure to go off without a hitch." - Hotel Zaza Our Favorite Part: Group Therapy​While the entire hotel is full of beautiful, eclectic spots, the rooftop bar Group Therapy is a favorite for us because it has the coolest ambiance (perfect for a welcome party, or artistic wedding portraits with your favorite cocktails!). Plus the bar leads out to the rooftop pool, with incredible views of our favorite city! INN CAHOOTS - AUSTIN, TX "Inn Cahoots is a four-story boutique hotel and event venue on East 6th Street that features five spacious & versatile condo-style suites, a sprawling rooftop deck overlooking Downtown Austin, and more than 36,000 sq. ft of indoor/outdoor event space." - Inn Cahoots Our Favorite Part: The Rooftop BarThis whole venue feels like a cool speakeasy, but the rooftop bar has views overlooking downtown, so we love it even more! The unique lounge furniture and stage would make for the best party after dinner. LAGUNA GLORIA - AUSTIN, TX "Walking through the gates of The Contemporary Austin – Laguna Gloria you feel like you’ve been transported far from the bustle of the city—although you are only five miles from downtown. Venture through the grounds to discover art by contemporary artists from around the world, from awe-inspiring monumental sculptures to quiet moments with art in nature along meditative wooded pathways. Laguna Gloria is home to the Driscoll Villa built in 1916, one of the most beloved venues for weddings and other private events in Austin. - Laguna Gloria Our Favorite Part: Driscoll VillaDriscoll Villa is one of the prettiest buildings in Austin, and we still can't believe this is minutes from downtown (and not in Italy!). It makes for gorgeous portraits, inside and out - with the unique tile floor and green arches inside, and the vintage Italian villa vibes of the exterior. ​**See more photos here on our past wedding blogs! MOSS - DENVER, CO "Moss's unique venue and expert team ensure that the magic keeps flowing, and your guests stay caught up in the moment. They are able to do this by changing scenes and hiding surprises behind our massive wooden doors. All unbeknownst to your guests, similar to a Broadway show. All of the work, space transformation, and “secrets” happen behind the scenes throughout the evening. You and your guests will be immersed in mystery and excitement." - Moss Denver Our Favorite Part: The Secret Doors The large moss panels are used as a unique ceremony backdrop, but they also can be flipped around to be a simpler wooden backdrop. However - not so simple about them - they double as secret doors, which lead to a second "getting ready" space, that could be used for another function throughout the night. One couple is having a "Speakeasy" behind it, so a secret code will get them behind the moss and to the late night burritos! OLDE DOBBIN STATION - HOUSTON, TX "Olde Dobbin Station provides a unique experience for its clients through the use of old structures built in the late 1800’s-early 1900’s, restored to their original look and feel, while adding a vintage touch. The buildings were initially used by oil companies as a “pumping station” and later became a famous place of fellowship for those in the community due to its Artesian Water Well. Every building on the Olde Dobbin Station wedding venue property is an original structure from the 1900s. It is truly unique and you won’t find anything like it in the Houston, Texas area." - Olde Dobbin Station Our Favorite Part: The Ivy Covered WallsThis venue is so uniquely gorgeous, we love all of the little things that give it character and old-time charm. The ivy covered walls add a fairytale element, so if you dream of being a princess on your wedding day - this backdrop would be perfect for you! PECAN SPRINGS RANCH - AUSTIN, TX "If you’re looking for a fun and fantastic city-meets-starry-nights Austin wedding venue just 10 minutes west of downtown Austin, here it is. Where Texas hill country charm meets uptown style! Pecan Springs Ranch is perfect for weddings and corporate events, you’ll have nothing but gracious warm smiles from your guests. Surrounded by stunning pecan and oak trees, the Austin wedding venue also features a creek, fresh springs, and a pond." - Pecan Springs Ranch Our Favorite Part: The SpacePecan Springs Ranch truly has so many beautiful spots to utilize for a wedding day, the options feel endless. Depending on weather and your personal style, you can choose where you want to have your ceremony, cocktail hour, and dinner. Spread the party out, or keep it intimate - the choice is yours! ​**See more photos here on our past wedding blogs! RAMBLING ROSE RANCH - AUSTIN, TX "This stunning ranch wedding venue right outside of Austin (15 minutes right from downtown!) is the brainchild of artist & designer, Morgan Daily Jackson. Her cohort and partner, Sandy, has been an integral part of building this incredible wedding venue in Austin. Together, they have spent many weary days (and nights), spending literal blood, sweat, and tears to build this incredibly affordable wedding venue. One of the gorgeous highlights is the open-air dance floor, a roofless structure covered in stunning vines and flowers. Don’t worry! There is a covered arena nearby for a rain plan. No need to possibly spend last-minute funds you don’t have on a tent—you have your rain plan right there! This boutique ranch-style wedding venue is everything an outdoors lover could want." - Rambling Rose Ranch Our Favorite Part: The Indoor/Outdoor Feel This venue feels like getting married in a secret garden, so we love that the structures on property keep things feeling like you're still outside enjoying the natural hill country beauty. REALM - DENVER, CO "Intentionally designed for malleability, refined through relentless editing and attention to detail, and held with a human touch to enable curiosity — our space is a backdrop to bring your vision alive. Amidst venues that are dull and dark, Realm is a refreshing take on a dynamic event and wedding venue. " - Realm Denver Our Favorite Part: The LightSince this intimate venue space is also a photo studio, it has incredible lighting throughout to create a dreamy atmosphere for an intimate ceremony and dinner party. Plus, you know you'll have the best wedding portraits without having to go anywhere else! ROSE HAVEN BAKERY & VENUE - AUSTIN, TX "If you’re looking for the epitome of elegance, you’ve come to the right place. Rose Haven’s gorgeous gardens, striking courtyard, outdoor pavilion and stage, and chic indoor spaces capture a timeless atmosphere of class and style. The original building dates back to the 1860s and has served Austin in many capacities as a general store, post office, restaurant, breakfast diner, bar, and dance hall over the last 150+ years. Today, this historical landmark serves the community as a unique event venue in the heart of Texas." - Rose Haven Venue Our Favorite Part: The BakeryRose Haven is owned by one of our favorite bakers in the city, and Cakes Rock!!! bakery is now actually in Rose Haven! Christy always creates the most beautiful (and delicious) wedding cakes for our couples, so this venue is even prettier because of the sugar. SPEEDING SPRINGS - DRIPPING SPRINGS, TX "Nestled in the heart of Dripping Springs, TX, Speeding Springs is a wedding venue that's as unique as your love story. Picture celebrating your special day in an event space that was once a classic car dealership but has since become an elegant and memorable event space, perfect for car enthusiasts. Cole and Megan are the dynamic duo behind this one-of-a-kind venue and are dedicated to sprinkling your nuptial celebrations with vintage elegance. So, rev up your romance and prepare for a wedding day that's as timeless as the cars that surround you at Speeding Springs." Our Favorite Part: The Cars The added appeal of this venue is the vintage car aesthetic, and we love this unique offer that truly no other venue has! THE VIDERE ESTATE - WIMBERLEY, TX "The Videre Estate is the hill country’s newest luxury ranch located just minutes from the historical square of Wimberley, Texas. The Videre is ideal for weddings, retreats and special events, boasting stunning views and an eight-acre private lake that provides a picturesque backdrop for the Summit’s 2,050 sq ft wedding deck. The Videre offers luxury lodging, hike trails and numerous amenities while exploring over five hundred acres of secluded rolling hills, caves and nature." - The Videre Estate Our Favorite Part: The Balcony More specifically, we love how the reception hall opens up to the massive, stunning balcony. You can see the views from inside, and it invites you out for a magical ceremony or sophisticated cocktail hour. ​**See more photos here on our past wedding blogs! VILLA AT THE VINEYARD - DRIFTWOOD, TX "Villa at the Vineyard stands out as a venue that makes you feel transported to the provincial Mediterranean countryside of France and Italy without leaving Texas. The outdoor ceremony site surrounds you with winding grapevines and wide open blue skies. A paved courtyard and spacious lawn are boarded by oak trees and overlook the vineyard, serving as the perfect space for cocktail hour. The 5,000 sq. ft. banquet hall is decorated with twisting iron lanterns and a high-arched wooden ceiling, giving the room a formal, romantic vibe with fantastic views of the vineyard through a wall of windows." - Villa at the Vineyard Our Favorite Part: The Tuscan FeelWe love that this villa truly looks and feels like its on a vineyard in Italy! The facade of the villa looks like it belongs in Tuscany, and even has a balcony to look out on as if you're living a European dream. 800 CONGRESS - AUSTIN, TX "800 Congress is a downtown Austin Event Venue located on historic Congress Avenue. Features include industrial, urban warehouse look with original exposed brick & foundation walls, covered street-level terrace, and state of the art A/V system." - 800 Congress Our Favorite Part: The Downtown Aesthetic We love the industrial feel, and the hustle and bustle of downtown right outside. This is the perfect spot to host an Austin wedding for out of town guests, walking distance to the capitol and so much the city has to offer! ​**See more photos here on one of our past wedding blogs! LEARN MORE ABOUT EACH WEDDING VENUE: 800 Congress  | Bella Oaks | The Farmhouse  | Gruene Estate |  Hotel Zaza  | Inn Cahoots | Laguna Gloria  | Moss Denver | Olde Dobbin Station  | Pecan Springs Ranch  | Rambling Rose Ranch  |  Realm Denver  | Rose Haven Bakery & Venue | The Videre Estate | Villa at the Vineyard

CHECK OUT ALL OF OUR FEATURED TOURS! Here are our top venue tours for 2021! We are featuring some of the most popular venues in Austin, TX and surrounding areas! Don't forget to check out our top picks for 2022 and 2023, as well! One of our favorite parts of wedding planning is getting to know other vendors, including the beautiful wedding venues across Austin + beyond. The more we see & learn about each venue, the more we're able to recommend the right venue to fit each couple we plan for - and being able to do so is something we truly enjoy & take pride in. We've taken our instagram followers with us on several virtual venue tours this year, and now we're recapping our favorite parts about each venue that we've gotten the chance to know better this year....While this isn't an extensive list of the venues we love and recommend, it is a list of the ones we've spent one on one time with in 2021. So - in alphabetical order because we can't possibly pick a favorite - here's a Year in Review of Venue Tours to help you find a venue that's right for you! THE ADDISON GROVE - AUSTIN, TEXAS "The Addison Grove is located less than 20 minutes from downtown Austin. This ideal location provides the best of both worlds for your guests, with both the convenience of the city and the charm of Austin’s Hill Country. Whether you're planning an intimate gathering or an extravagant wedding, our grounds and elegant venue are yours to fill with guests and loved ones for any special event." - The Addison Grove Our Favorite Part: The Willow Trees ​ Both outdoor ceremony spots at The Addison Grove are surrounded by absolutely gorgeous trees - giving you the perfect natural backdrop no matter the season. "The Grove" ceremony location (pictured above) can also be a perfect space for an outdoor cocktail hour or intimate dinner under the trees. Festoon lights hanging from those beauties during a moonlit dinner sounds pretty magical, right?! ​**See more photos here on one of our past wedding blogs! THE ARLO - AUSTIN, TEXAS "At the gateway to the Texas Hill Country, nestled between Austin’s city center and Dripping Springs, The Arlo provides elegantly designed spaces that feel refreshingly modern and endlessly classic. Purpose-built and with every detail thoughtfully planned to impress, our 15,000 square-foot events venue is luxuriously appointed with beauty, function and comfort in mind. Our open and bright floor plans are well suited to accommodate a wide range of gatherings, juxtaposing an up-scale, metropolitan aesthetic with a panoramic hill country setting." - The Arlo Events Our Favorite Part: The Lounge This is definitely one of the biggest bridal suites we've seen, and it seriously has EVERYTHING. The lounge (bottom corner photos) has 1600 square feet of space for your wedding party to do some yoga, and sip on mimosas, and get ready before they dance the night away in this high-ceiling, light-filled venue. The incredible beauty bar, the cozy fireplace, and private dressing areas are only a few of the things that make this suite so special. Who wouldn't want to hang out in here allll day on their wedding day?! ​​**See more photos here on one of our past wedding blogs! CAMINO REAL RANCH - DALE, TEXAS "Prairie grasses, desert succulents and cotton candy sunsets serve as a magical backdrop for your special event. Our modern desert aesthetic transports you to the wide expanse of West Texas or to the minimalist topography of Baja California, with the convenience of being minutes from downtown Austin. Tucked in between Austin, San Antonio, and Bastrop, Camino Real Ranch is everything a boutique venue should be: hospitable and stylish without pretension." - Camino Real Ranch Our Favorite Part: The Greenhouse We love everything about the uniqueness of Camino Real Ranch, from the Quonset Hut to the Marfa-lover's Farmhouse, but The Greenhouse holds a special place in our heart. The Greenhouse (bottom three photos) is a 3,400 square foot climate controlled room with an opaque roof and a wall of vintage windows, giving it the flowing appearance that takes your breath away the second you step inside. COLTON HOUSE HOTEL - AUSTIN, TEXAS "Southern hospitality is real, and Texans love to have a good time. In that spirit, Colton House offers plenty of diverse and versatile event space for weddings, work functions, private parties or festival gatherings. From our outdoor lawn and pool space (complete with private cabanas) to our gorgeous Library (with a 16-foot black walnut table and floor-to-ceiling custom bookshelves) to the stunning Penthouse leading out to a rooftop that offers panoramic views of the Texas hill country, you can write your own story, and make each space your own." - Colton House Hotel Our Favorite Part: The Parlor Room While we are obsessed with all of the different wallpapers and antique rugs throughout Colton House Hotel (and honestly - the entire design aesthetic!!), The Parlor Room (top right photo) has its own vibe that we love. Its sophisticated, yet intimate, ambiance makes it a great space for a Welcome Party during your wedding weekend - which would be perfect because your guests could all stay in a hotel block just steps away. A party you don't have to drive to is the best kind of party, in our opinion! HIGHPOINTE ESTATE - LIBERTY HILL, TEXAS "Situated on 42 beautiful acres with sweeping views of the San Gabriel River Valley, HighPointe Estate offers exceptional service and beautiful spaces for your wedding or special event. Our indoor spaces feature chocolate-brown trusses, stunning chandeliers, and loads of natural light streaming through large doors and windows. Outdoors, you'll discover comfortable porches, beautiful gardens with water features, and plenty of room for outdoor fun!" - HighPointe Estate Our Favorite Part: The Wardrobe Don't get us wrong - this venue is absolutely STUNNING all around, and we couldn't get enough of the gothic arches throughout - especially the windows in the Chapel. But we have to give a shout out to one of the most ingenious things we've ever seen in a bridal suite: the "wardrobe" (bottom right photo). While it may look like a typical wardrobe from first glance, it's basically like the entrance to Narnia. It opens up into a full, walk-in closet where your wedding party can hang dresses and store all of their belongings during the wedding. It makes tidying up for getting ready photos inside the suite easy! ​​**See more photos here on one of our past wedding blogs! MAE'S RIDGE - JOHNSON CITY, TEXAS "Just outside of Dripping Springs, our chic and modern barn overlooks 28 acres of incredible Hill Country Views. The interior is crisp and sophisticated. White shiplap walls and ceiling makes for the dream backdrop to any event possible. No matter the weather, natural light enters our climate controlled barn through six grand glass doors and skylights. Guests can enjoy cocktails on the covered patio or at the indoor/outdoor farmhouse bar. Winding trails lead to several special ceremony spots including the Oak Grove and Sunset Ridge." - Mae's Ridge Our Favorite Part: The Rattan Chairs ​ Again - everything about this venue is gorgeous with its mid-century modern design aspects, inside-out bar, and so much light (including the coolest chandeliers!). But what stuck out to us most during our tour were the rattan chairs (bottom right photo) that come included with the venue rental. These chairs are unique to Mae's Ridge, and no other venue or rental company will have the same ones. They look great on the smooth concrete floor inside during reception, and will be the special design touch everyone will notice. ​**See more photos here on one of our past wedding blogs! MA MAISON - DRIPPING SPRINGS, TEXAS "Nestled on 23 acres in the beautiful wine country just outside Austin, Texas, Ma Maison is a luxury wedding and event venue that combines the warmth of home with breathtaking European-inspired elegance. Inspired by our French heritage, our 10,000-square foot property and immaculately designed outdoor sites provide an oasis of natural beauty and exemplary customer service in the spectacular Texas Hill Country." - Ma Maison Our Favorite Part: The Green Cathedral ​ The Green Cathedral (bottom left photo) is an outdoor ceremony space that is surrounded by oak trees, and in the spring, usually surrounded by wildflowers as well. It's actually a reclaimed antique French gazebo, which was most likely once in someone's garden. It was found and put back together by the owners who must have known it was going to be something really special in its new life. THE PRESERVE AT CANYON LAKE - CANYON LAKE, TEXAS "The Preserve at Canyon Lake is a 170-acre wildlife preservation that offers breathtaking scenery and spectacular views everywhere you look. At the center of the property and behind the venue sit two pristine spring-fed lakes surrounded by mature Bald Cypress and Sycamore Trees. Overlooking the lake and nestled under a canopy of hundred-year-old oak tress sits an intimate outdoor ceremony site. The Preserve wildlife preservation is home to abundant wildlife, including deer, turkey, raccoons, fox, hawks, songbirds, and many more!" - The Preserve at Canyon Lake Our Favorite Part: The Chapel ​ The Chapel (bottom middle photo) truly encompasses the best of both worlds at this venue. Not only is it a beautiful indoor space, with panoramic windows and a balcony that overlooks the entire space, but it also has a perfect view of hill country beauty - including one of the property's spring-fed lakes. You could get married here without a single flower as decor and it would still be a breathtaking ceremony! Speaking of the hill country beauty - The Preserve at Canyon lake is pretty unmatched when it comes to natural Texas beauty, being that the venues on a real wildlife preservation. ​**See more photos here on one of our past wedding blogs! PROSPECT HOUSE - DRIPPING SPRINGS, TEXAS "Prospect House is a modern event space designed specifically for hosting weddings, receptions, and special events. Featuring striking architecture set within a hill country landscape, Prospect House includes multiple indoor and outdoor spaces that offer many flexible configuration options. Prospect House provides full use of all on-site facilities and grounds during the day of your event. This includes the use of all furniture, lighting, and integrated audio systems." - Prospect House Our Favorite Part: The Architecture ​ "Prospect House was designed by award-winning Texas architect Max Levy, known for creating simple yet dramatic modern spaces connected to nature through light, shadow, and breezes." ​ We noticed the unique architecture as soon as we stepped onto the property. The venue was thoughtfully designed to hold the best lighting at all hours of day, truly utilizing the best that nature has to offer. Our favorite proof of this architecture genius is in the Main Hall (bottom corner photos), where only long, skinny windows line one side of the room. This allows the perfect golden light to flood in just during sunset, when your guests will most likely be sitting down to enjoy their meal in the dreamy atmosphere. SOUTH CONGRESS HOTEL - AUSTIN, TEXAS "Just one mile from downtown, and steps from many of Austin’s most iconic music venues, shops, and restaurants, South Congress Hotel is the perfect setting for your big day and all the special moments leading up to it. As both an indoor and outdoor wedding venue, our event space, pre-function room, courtyard, and lush gardens serve as a customizable backdrop for ceremonies, receptions, rehearsal dinners, bridal showers, bachelorette parties, and more." - South Congress Hotel Our Favorite Part: The Lobby Bar A full service bar that is open to the public during normal hours, The Lobby Bar (bottom middle photo) is the perfect spot for Cocktail Hour or a Welcome Party for your guests. It connects to Cafe No Se (top middle photo), which provides the in-service catering at all South Congress Hotel Events. The Lobby Bar has a unique atmosphere, and makes for some truly great wedding portraits too! A special shoutout, however, to the fact that the hotel takes up an entire block of South Congress - containing multiple restaurants, bars, shops, and a coffee shop. Meaning - your guests could never leave this block of the city if they didn't want to and would still get to experience a lot that Austin has to offer. **See more photos here on one of our past wedding blogs! WISH WELL HOUSE - GEORGETOWN, TEXAS "The highly anticipated Wish Well House is a one-of-a-kind wedding and event venue that blends historical character with modern day sophistication. Far from ordinary, Wish Well House combines everything to love about modern, lofty design within the setting of a historic, urban building. The interior boasts high ceilings with exposed beams, large windows that fill the space with natural light, the coolest private prep rooms nestled upstairs and an expansive, lush outdoor courtyard... oh, and the most stunning restrooms you may ever see! Conveniently located just 20 miles North of Austin, Wish Well House is perfect for couples looking for an urban flair without the commotion of Austin or those looking to avoid the long country roads." - Wish Well House Our Favorite Part: The Suites Last, but CERTAINLY not least, is Georgetown's newest boutique venue, Wish Well House. With an optional indoor-outdoor feel, full service bar included, and unique tiles, wallpapers, + fixtures throughout, we know this venue is going to flourish in the new year. Our favorite part of the whole venue was the upstairs - where two private getting-ready suites (bottom corner photos) reside, both with their own style and both looking straight out of a magazine. LEARN MORE ABOUT THESE AUSTIN WEDDING VENUES: The Addison Grove | The Arlo | Camino Real Ranch | Colton House Hotel | Highpointe Estate | Mae's Ridge | Ma Maison | The Preserve at Canyon Lake | Prospect House | ​South Congress Hotel | Wish Well House