When we heard that Caitlin and Chris were engaged we were excited for a number of reasons. First, they’re two of our favorite humans. Second, they chose one of the coolest Austin venues, The Greenhouse in Driftwood. And third, they decided on March which happens to be the beginning of beautiful bluebonnet season in Texas. Shalyn, from Love, The Nelsons captured the love, energy and explosion of color that made this wedding so memorable. Special shout out to Meredith from Westcott Weddings, the couple’s rockstar wedding planner!
Let’s start this wedding day at the greenhouse. Owners Harper and Dave look after the spectacular place, which was actually Dave’s childhood home and has been in the family for three generations! It’s giant oak trees, elegantly decorated interior and greenhouse full of incredible plants and natural light make this place feel so magical and unique. Caitlin got pampered with her bridesmaids and Lola Beauty in the home’s bridal suite. She wore her hair in long, loose curls, rocked a glossy blush lip and long lashes that framed those sparkling blue eyes. Her mother and sister helped her into a show-stopper Romona Keveza dress. The gown was covered in delicate floral lace, had long romantic sleeves and the most incredible neckline. Caitlin looked stunning and celebrated the start of her best day ever with a Schramsberg champagne cheers! Her besties wore slate blue dresses and held embroidered hankies, the perfect gift for happy tears.
If you’re following us on Instagram, you already know how obsessed we are with Caitlin’s florals from Sweetwater Stems. They are just epic. All colors of the rainbow, perfectly combined into arrangements and bouquets that have so much texture, variety and depth it’s hard to take your eyes off of them. The ladies each grabbed a bouquet and headed outside for photos in front of the grand stone staircase.
Chris looked so handsome in his blue three piece suit. His guys joined him outside for photos before the ceremony began. They had the coolest boutonnieres, packed full of blue thistle to match their ties, succulents and yellow buds. We always love to see the interesting poses guys coordinate for groomsmen shots. Chris and his crew definitely did not disappoint!
“A daughter needs a dad to be the standard against which she will judge all men.” Caitlin’s father set the standard very high. He is protective, sweet, honest, genuine, and so incredibly supportive. The bride decided to do a first look with her father just before he had the honor of walking her down the aisle. His reaction was joy and pride when he turned to see his blonde haired, blue eyed daughter wearing the dress she was about to get married in. They hugged and she gently wiped tears away, a memory we’re sure they’ll both never forget.
The ceremony space was stunning. Bartenders passed around delicious cocktails, the sun was shining, and music by Terra Vista Strings played lightly in the background. What more could you ask for?! A captivating floral arch marked the front of the aisle and bright petals were sprinkled across the lawn’s green grass. There wasn’t a dry eye in the house when Caitlin walked slowly towards Chris, tightly holding on to her father and a handkerchief tucked under her bouquet. She smiled and cried all at once when she turned the corner to see family, friends and her happy groom.
Throughout the service, these two constantly communicated to one another, checking in, making sure the other was okay. Chris would squeeze Caitlin’s hand, they would glance at each other and flash smiles, and Caitlin rest her head on her soon to be husband’s shoulder during prayer. It was evident that they shared a bond that was so deeply rooted in faith and love. Witnessing these two starting their next chapter in life was beautiful.
Some of our favorite photos came after I Do’s. Even without a first look, Chris and Caitlin had their magical moment alone. The way he looked at her, fighting back tears as she smiled and pulled him closely in left us speechless when we saw these photos. Just a perfect memory. And in a flash, wedding party, family and friends were surrounding them with hugs and congratulations! They were married and so happy.
After wedding party and family photos, Caitlin and Chris wandered the property taking breathtaking pictures along the way. They started in front of the greenhouse, surrounded by blue bonnets. What a spectacular backdrop for pictures. Afterwards they walked a tree-lined path, stopping every now and then to kiss and look back at the camera.
If you thought the bouquets and ceremony florals were the decor highlight from this wedding, you’ll be blown away when you see the reception space. A tall escort card display greeted guests as they walked towards the path to the twinkle light covered tent from Whim Hospitality. Each table was named after one of the couple’s favorite ATX restaurants and Boarding School Collective printed the lists on paper that matched Caitlin and Chris’s colorful invitation suite. Inside the tent, tables were decorated with rose gold bud vases, geometric terrariums and compotes overflowing with wonderful florals. A lounge area in the middle of the room had the coolest wood backdrop that doubled as a dessert display later that evening. The bar may have been our favorite of all the installations. An oversized garland hung down over the herringbone patterned wood. Two ferns in modern black pots stood on each side. Such a spectacular combination of colors and patterns!
We love when brides surprise us with a second look, and Caitlin’s was the perfect party dress! The Hayley Paige gown had a flowing skirt, shimmering lace bodice and trendy strap back. She was definitely ready to dance the night away. The sun started to set as these two swayed to their first dance song.
We were not surprised at all that Caitlin and Chris chose family style for dinner. These two definitely love hosting and cooking for others. Some of our favorites from Contigo Catering were the brussel sprouts and white cheddar mac and cheese. SO delicious. Speeches with champagne cheers, a dessert bar packed with literally sweets from all of the best in Austin including Tiny Pies, Hayley Cakes and Cookies, Tiffs Treats, Wild Wood Bakery, Austin Cake Balls and Nothing Bundt Cakes, and the most fun DJ (you rocked Live Oak DJ) carried the happy couple and their loved ones into the evening.
Before the night was over, we lined the pathway with sparklers to celebrate the love that these two have shared with us and each other for so many years. I cannot tell you how happy it made me to see one of my closest friends marry the man of her dreams. This day was truly one in a million and we hope Chris and Caitlin revisit these memories often. Welcome to Married Life! We wish you a lifetime of trying new restaurants (and recipes), living room dance parties, and all the holiday and party decorations you can store in that lovely home of yours! XOXO
