Jan
08

Bergheim Ranch

Late last year, I had the pleasure to visit Barbara at Bergheim Ranch for the first time. If you are recently in the market for a secluded wedding venue with overnight lodging and beautiful views as far as the eye can see, consider all the benefits of holding your special event at the Bergheim Ranch—a Texas Hill Country venue and lodging destination.

Whether you plan to have a small, intimate gathering or a lavish, large event, here’s everything you need to know about the Bergheim Ranch.

[Tweet “Bergheim Ranch, Texas Hill Country Wedding Venue”]

Bergheim Ranch is a private Texas hill country wedding venue that opened in 2018. It’s very conveniently-located central to San Antonio, Austin, Boerne, Fredericksburg, and New Braunfels—which makes weddings super simple for both your local wedding guests and those who will have to travel.

Bergheim Ranch is stunning because you feel like you’re out in the middle of nowhere. There are neighbors… but you can’t see them. I don’t know exactly how many acres this ranch is, but things like road noise and telephone poles don’t seem to exist.

One of the best things (there are several) about Bergheim Ranch is the open-air barn—referred to as “the Gin.” First off, it’s huge! The Gin is 3,000 square feet and you can easily seat 150 guests… or 250 guests if you allow them to “flow” into the adjacent lawn areas. There is a beautiful, very large double-sided fireplace, At the opposite end of the Gin is a built-in, saloon-inspired bar. The Texas hill country views are endless when you open all of the cantilever-styled windows. The outdoors seems to blend flawlessly right into the indoors and this would be perfect for any fall or spring Texas wedding!

Don’t let all of the words like “barn” and “saloon” lead you to believe that this hill country wedding venue is only suited for rustic wedding themes. I promise you, the Gin has dual personalities and can easily host any elegant, refined wedding theme. It’s drop-dead gorgeous!

Bergheim Ranch, Texas Hill Country Wedding Venue

Have I mentioned the majestic oak trees that envelope the Gin and cover the quaint little courtyard? There are several, very mature oaks in the yard (and actually all around the property), and they’re just unbelievably pretty. They actually frame, shade, or provide a backdrop to the outdoor ceremony areas.

My favorite Texas wedding venues are ones that offer overnight accommodations to their guests and Bergheim Ranch succeeds. The ranch has the ability to sleep up to 25 guests—which is just about perfect for your family and a small wedding party.

The main house, called the Windmill House, has the most peaceful front porch. It’s where I sat talking to Barbara before and after my tour of Bergheim Ranch. The two tree-house-style bungalows in the back are 20 feet off the ground. Because you are not at ground level, you can literally see for miles and miles. Both have firepits and charcoal grills. There is a gas grill located near the pool. Yes!! There’s an in-ground pool!

(Fun fact, the bungalows are built 20 feet off the ground because they used to be part of what was called the Serengeti. The Serengeti was a resort which had several exotic animals which included giraffes, zebras, ostriches, and some other deer, I believe. Not only would the giraffes come to the bungalow windows, you could take “safari” rides through the fields to feed the animals. But, the animals are no longer there. Hope that’s not a deal breaker.)

And if you’ve been dreaming of those pictures of you and your newly-wedded partner jumping into a swimming pool… you can do that here too! Though, you’ll likely have to save this for a summer wedding—the pool is not heated.

Barbara was going through several renovations when I visited and I can’t wait to see what improvements she made. Honestly, from what I was able to see, none were needed. Everything was clean, well-manicured, and just lovely.

Okay, so what other facts do you need to know about the Bergheim Ranch as it relates to your wedding planning and/or you’re not really in the mood for reading today? Let’s skip to the bullet points…

  • Secluded venue, but easily accessible to all nearby cities
  • 3,000 square foot, open-air barn
  • Seats 150 people comfortably; can squeeze in 250
  • Multiple scenic ceremony sites
  • Overnight lodging for up to 25 people; three separate houses
  • In-ground pool
  • Rental includes tables and padded resin chairs for 200 guests
  • Gorgeous 14-foot chiffon drapes
  • According to Here Comes the Guide, prices range from $3,500 to $6,100
  • Currently running a special for an intimate wedding… $3,999; includes an overnight stay but must be booked for June–September 2021

The beautiful surroundings of the Bergheim Ranch and all it has to offer can provide you and your partner with a lifetime of special memories and limitless photo opportunities for your magical day. You’re not doing yourself any favors unless you check it out.

If you’re looking for a spacious, unique hill country wedding venue and you’d like to arrange your own tour at the Bergheim Ranch with Barbara, you can reach out here:

The post, Bergheim Ranch, Texas Hill Country Wedding Venue, first appeared on Ata-Girl Photography Co.’s website and blog. Please feel free to comment here, or share this post with your friends via Facebook, Twitter or Pinterest. Please email me if you have any questions about this article or want to share a neat idea for a future blog post with me.

Jul
15

JW Marriott Wedding

I hadn’t had the opportunity to work with Chrystina of Straughan Photography in almost two years when she asked me to help her second shoot this JW Marriott wedding in the San Antonio hill country. But, when she asked and I was available, I immediately jumped on it. I always love getting out and helping my fellow colleagues any time I can.

groom watching his bride-to-be approach the altar

As mostly customary for a second shooter, I got to hang out with the groom and groomsmen before the ceremony. They were a lot of fun—typical groomsmen—cutting on each other, making jokes, and eluding to punch lines I had no understanding of (probably thankful).

groomsmen having fun pre-ceremony at a JW Marriott wedding in San Antonio, Texas

JW Marriott Wedding—San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa

This hill country wedding was super gorgeous! The ceremony took place in the Wedding Pavilion which overlooks the 18th green of the AT&T Oaks Golf Course. You can literally see hills for miles. Such a pretty landscape.

bride loses her veil during the recessional at a JW Marriott wedding

My favorite parts of Michele and Will’s wedding night were probably the cigar roller, the fact that the dance floor was never empty and their glow stick exit. The only mishap of the entire day, as far as I could tell, was when Michele’s veil didn’t want to stay on during the recessional. But it made for a good image. And, she kept on trucking… didn’t even seem to bother her.

wedding ceremony guests shot by a san antonio wedding photographer

I also love when the ceremony guests are asked to bless the couple. Definitely one of my favorite parts of a ceremony… well, besides the kiss. (If any photo geeks are reading, this was shot at f22.)

cold sparkers during first dance at JW Marriott wedding reception

The couple’s parents planned the surprise indoor sparklers for their first dance. They also planned a getaway car! The couple had no idea about either happening on their wedding night.

wedding grand exit in a classic car

The last thing I would like to say is that this wedding was the third time I’ve had a camera unexpectedly stop working in the middle of a wedding ceremony since 2010. Noteworthy… twice it has been Nikon’s flagship (most expensive) model. The moral of the story is to always hire a photographer who has backup gear!

Enjoy some of my favorite images from this JW Mariott hill country wedding then be sure to watch the slideshow at the end!

If you’d like to see more images from this Texas hill country wedding at the JW Marriott, please enjoy this video. For the best quality, be sure to change the video player settings to 1080 HD. 

Let’s “hangout!” I wanna hear about your love story!

Schedule a virtual or in-person discovery meetup!
For more options, visit my “Let’s Connect” page.

About Ata-Girl

I am a San Antonio-based wedding photographer and I cater to outdoor-loving couples who prefer to have all the realness captured on their wedding days. I am the wedding photographer for the outdoor adventurers, the romantics, the laid back, the snugglers, and those who wish to capture all their realness.

I am absolutely in love with capturing the kinds of weddings where there are more hugs than handshakes, the dance floor rumbles all night long, and chairs are pretty much rendered useless after dinner. Whiskey bottles are passed around, most of the wedding party has been best-best friends since kindergarten, Grams is likely to lose her shoes and your partner is much more emotional than you are. These kinds of weddings are my jam!

You can always call or text, but if you really want to get to know me, schedule a meetup!

I started Ata-Girl Photography Co., LLC in 2010. I firmly believe that the unique set of circumstances I have faced in life has prepared me to take a personal and genuine interest in my photography clients. I enjoy documenting the important milestones and captivating moments in people’s lives. I love being a part of people’s journeys and consider myself privileged to document their legacies.

If you enjoyed this blog post and would like to get your hands on 20 FREE interactive wedding planning tools that every couple needs, please take a moment to access them here.

I am a published author (purchase my book here), a podcast host (listen here) (watch here) and a WPPI-C certified professional, full-time wedding photographer. I specialize in a 10-day image delivery, same-day prints, same-day slideshows, Italian handcrafted wedding albums and I have a mobile meeting space.

When I’m not behind my camera, you can find me hiking, cycling, backpacking, camping, enjoying water sports, listening to music (Elvis and Prince), hunting for arrowheads, reading audiobooks, occasionally eating a few glazed donuts (my only weakness to sweets) and then re-starting my keto diet about every 10 days. The most important things in life are for me to see my two daughters happy and to create a family history my grandparents and grandson would be proud of.

May
07

Boerne Hill Country Wedding

This week, I’m going into my archives for another wedding I second shot with Sara from LL Studio Design. This lovely October, Texas hill country wedding took place at the Milestone in Boerne.

bride and groom creative session at a Boerne Hill Country Wedding

The light after the ceremony was magical. Love was in the air for sure. The Milestone at Boerne is a beautiful place to get married. I love the way the hills and plentiful oak trees envelop the ceremony site. Everything aesthetically-pleasing on this wedding day was seamlessly hemmed in by the surrounding hill country. I bet if things were quiet enough, you could hear the Upper Cibolo Creek running over the rocks in the nearby creekbed. It’s just such a gorgeous piece of Texas hill country property.

bride and groom sunset session

Boerne Hill Country Wedding-The Milestone Venue

I loved the fact that both of Cori’s parents walked her down the aisle. It always warms my heart when couples choose to have their wedding days the way they want. I love the fact that they don’t feel restricted by what society says they should do or what others want them to do—even when “others” is their parents. I love the see couples planning their day in their own way!

bride getting escorted during processional by both her parents

Cori was such a beautiful bride. (Writing this blog is soooo making me miss weddings right now! Damn you, Corona.)

bridal portraits at a Boerne Hill Country Wedding

After all the sentimental and emotional parts of they day were taken care of, I remember that Jared, Cori and their guests knew how to party. The evening was filled with a lot of fun, a lot of dancing, and a few beers!

Boerne Hill Country Wedding

Enjoy some of my favorite images from this Boerne hill country wedding at the Milestone wedding venue then be sure to watch the slideshow at the end!

If you’d like to see all the images from this Boerne Hill Country Wedding-The Milestone Venue, please enjoy this video. For the best quality, be sure to change the video player settings to 1080 HD. 

Let’s “hangout!” I wanna hear about your love story!

Schedule a virtual or in-person discovery meetup!
For more options, visit my “Let’s Connect” page.

About Ata-Girl

I am a San Antonio-based wedding photographer and I cater to outdoor-loving couples who prefer to have all the realness captured on their wedding days. I am the wedding photographer for the outdoor adventurers, the romantics, the laid back, the snugglers, and those who wish to capture all their realness.

I am absolutely in love with capturing the kinds of weddings where there are more hugs than handshakes, the dance floor rumbles all night long, and chairs are pretty much rendered useless after dinner. Whiskey bottles are passed around, most of the wedding party has been best-best friends since kindergarten, Grams is likely to lose her shoes and your partner is much more emotional than you are. These kinds of weddings are my jam!

You can always call or text, but if you really want to get to know me, schedule a meetup!

I started Ata-Girl Photography Co., LLC in 2010. I firmly believe that the unique set of circumstances I have faced in life has prepared me to take a personal and genuine interest in my photography clients. I enjoy documenting the important milestones and captivating moments in people’s lives. I love being a part of people’s journeys and consider myself privileged to document their legacies.

If you enjoyed this blog post and would like to get your hands on 20 FREE interactive wedding planning tools that every couple needs, please take a moment to access them here.

I am a published author (purchase my book here), a podcast host (listen here) (watch here) and a WPPI-C certified professional, full-time wedding photographer. I specialize in a 10-day image delivery, same-day prints, same-day slideshows, Italian handcrafted wedding albums and I have a mobile meeting space.

When I’m not behind my camera, you can find me hiking, cycling, backpacking, camping, enjoying water sports, listening to music (Elvis and Prince), hunting for arrowheads, reading audiobooks, occasionally eating a few glazed donuts (my only weakness to sweets) and then re-starting my keto diet about every 10 days. The most important things in life are for me to see my two daughters happy and to create a family history my grandparents and grandson would be proud of.

Mar
26

CW Hill Country Ranch

I have not laid my eyes on the CW Hill Country Ranch since the fall of 2016 when I shot Laura and Jordan’s beautiful October wedding. I must confess, that is entirely too long. Kristine and Dennis have done a superb job of keeping this venue in tiptop shape. I’m ashamed I haven’t been back sooner.

cw hill country ranch boerne wedding venue

[Tweet “CW Hill Country Ranch: a Boerne Wedding Venue”]

When I first read the venue’s tagline—Where Rustic Meets Elegance—I immediately understood the reference. This Boerne hill country wedding venue is the perfect balance of the two—not too rustic, and not too elegant. It’s an unmitigated choice for the couple looking for something in between those two stylistic elements.

cw hill country ranch boerne wedding venue

CW Hill Country Ranch: a Boerne Wedding Venue

This gorgeous Boerne hill country wedding venue is situated on 70 acres between Sisterdale and Kendalia and is only a 40-minute drive from San Antonio.

cw hill country ranch boerne wedding venue

And if your guests are going to be blown away by the beauty of the wedding venue… your VIP guests will absolutely die when they see their overnight accommodations and the views it offers! This house. No words.

cw hill country ranch boerne wedding venue

Okay, so what other important facts do you need to know about the CW Hill Country Ranch wedding venue as it relates to your wedding planning?

  • Is steeped deep in family and meaningful local history
  • Once an actual working cattle ranch situated on 600 Texas hill country acres (the venue now sits on 70 of those acres)
  • Kristine and Dennis are committed to upholding and adhering to their strong Christian values
  • Indoor and outdoor ceremony areas
  • Can accommodate up to a 250-guest wedding and reception
  • 5,000 square foot, air-conditioned barn reception hall
  • 2,000 square foot covered porch area perfect for an outdoor cocktail hour
  • Tables and chairs for up to 150 guests + 20 high top cocktail tables
  • Cleanup is included
  • Firepit and sitting area (with a huge Texas flag backdrop painted on the side of the barn)
  • Sleeps 36 people total
  • Has its own honeymoon cottage
  • Outdoor string lighting
  • Two pre-scheduled visits included during your wedding planning process
  • A $750 deposit will get your date reserved

This is me (pictured far left) with a group of other San Antonio wedding professionals visiting the CW Hill Country Ranch back when there was no coronavirus in these parts yet in February. Kristine is pictured front and center and is the tallest person in the entire group.

If you’re looking for a romantic Boerne hill country wedding venue and you’d like to arrange your own tour at the CW Hill Country Ranch with Kristine, you can reach out here:

Here are some more images to further illustrate my points of how wonderful this Texas wedding venue, CW Hill Country Ranch, is:

Many thanks to my uber-talented and very beautiful friend Sonia, over at Aria Productions, for sharing some of her images she captured on the venue tour with me and allowing me to include them herein. Her images are watermarked so you know which ones she contributed.

If you enjoyed this blog post and would like to get your hands on 20 FREE interactive wedding planning tools that every couple needs, please take a moment to access them here.

You can always call or text, but if you really want to get to know me, schedule a meetup!


Let’s hangout! I wanna hear about your love story!

Schedule a virtual or in-person discovery meetup!
For more options, visit my “Let’s Connect” page.
san antonio senior portrait photographers ata-girl photography since 2010

I am San Antonio’s most unique wedding photographer. I specialize in a 10-day image delivery, same-day prints, same-day slideshows, Italian handcrafted wedding albums and I have a mobile meeting space.

I am a full-time, internationally-awarded and WPPI-C certified professional wedding and senior photographer based in South Texas near San Antonio. I offer a premier and personal service coupled with an unforgettable photography experience. I cater to clients who appreciate quality photography and help them to create family heirlooms that will last for generations.

I started Ata-Girl Photography Co., LLC in 2010. I firmly believe that the unique set of circumstances I have faced in life has prepared me to take a personal and genuine interest in my photography clients. I enjoy documenting the important milestones and captivating moments in people’s lives. I love being a part of people’s journey and consider myself privileged to document their legacies.

When I’m not photographing a wedding, family or high school senior, I love to spend my spare time hiking, camping, cycling, reading, listening to Elvis and Prince. The most important things in life are for me to see my two daughters happy and to create a family history my grandparents and grandson would be proud of!

The post, CW HIll Country Ranch— a Boerne Wedding Venue, first appeared on Ata-Girl Photography Co.’s website and blog. Please feel free to comment here, or share this post with your friends via Facebook, Twitter or Pinterest. Please email me if you have any questions about this article or want to share a neat idea for a future blog post with me.

Mar
11

The Paniolo Ranch

I did not visit this gorgeous Texas hill country wedding venue on the most beautiful day, but there was NO hiding the beauty of this gem despite the gloomy overcast.

[Tweet “Paniolo Ranch Event Center, Bed & Breakfast & Spa”]

When I first read the venue’s tagline—Marries Hawaiian Luxuries and Lone Star Traditions—I had to figure out how. Paniolo, in Hawaiian, means a person who herds cattle; a cowboy.

paniolo ranch texas hill country wedding venue san antonio wedding photographers

This gorgeous hill country venue is situated amid 100 acres and basically every direction your eyes look, you can see jaw-dropping Texas landscapes. The indoor reception hall and outdoor ceremony site are surrounded by beauty. You really get a sense of seclusion here. If you’re looking for a texas hill country wedding venue that is isolated and remote, yet still very beautiful and modern—this IS IT!

I absolutely loved the large windowed-doors that allowed the allure of the outdoors to seamlessly flow inside. I adored the mixture of wrought-iron chandeliers with ultra-modern pin lighting. (I don’t need to mention the shiny, reflective, perfectly-polished floors, do I?)

paniolo ranch texas hill country wedding venue san antonio wedding photographers

And, I just considered the very large wrap-around porches gravy at this point!

paniolo ranch texas hill country wedding venue san antonio wedding photographers

Paniolo Ranch Event Center, Bed & Breakfast & Spa

Okay, so what other facts do you need to know about the Paniolo Ranch Event Center as it relates to your wedding planning?

  • can accommodate up to 250 guests
  • round tables and Chiavari chairs are included
  • features some of the best hill country views in the area directly from the ballroom and magical bridal suite (you have to see to believe, pictured below)
  • there is open-air ceremony seating and indoor reception seating
  • breakfast is included with some packages; spa services also available
  • the ranch also has five (5) B&B accommodations on-site and offers a 10% discount when you book both
  • the ranch B&B can sleep 26 guests
  • bride and groom getting-ready rooms
  • swimming pool and heated jacuzzi
  • your way or all-inclusive options for weddings
paniolo ranch texas hill country wedding venue san antonio wedding photographers

If you’re looking for that perfect hill country wedding venue and you’d like to arrange your own tour at The Paniolo Ranch Event Center, Bed & Breakfast & Spa with Judy or Hunter, you can reach out here:

Here are some more images to further illustrate my points of how wonderful this Texas wedding venue, Paniolo Ranch, is:

Many thanks to my uber-talented and very beautiful friend Sonia, over at Aria Productions, for sharing one of her images she captured on the venue tour with me and allowing me to include it herein.

If you enjoyed this blog post and would like to get your hands on 20 FREE interactive wedding planning tools that every couple needs, please take a moment to access them here.

You can always call or text, but if you really want to get to know me, schedule a meetup!


Let’s hangout! I wanna hear about your love story!

Schedule a virtual or in-person discovery meetup!
For more options, visit my “Let’s Connect” page.
san antonio senior portrait photographers ata-girl photography since 2010

I am San Antonio’s most unique wedding photographer. I specialize in a 10-day image delivery, same-day prints, same-day slideshows, Italian handcrafted wedding albums and I have a mobile meeting space.

I am a full-time, internationally-awarded and WPPI-C certified professional wedding and senior photographer based in South Texas near San Antonio. I offer a premier and personal service coupled with an unforgettable photography experience. I cater to clients who appreciate quality photography and help them to create family heirlooms that will last for generations.

I started Ata-Girl Photography Co., LLC in 2010. I firmly believe that the unique set of circumstances I have faced in life has prepared me to take a personal and genuine interest in my photography clients. I enjoy documenting the important milestones and captivating moments in people’s lives. I love being a part of people’s journey and consider myself privileged to document their legacies.

When I’m not photographing a wedding, family or high school senior, I love to spend my spare time hiking, camping, cycling, reading, listening to Elvis and Prince. The most important things in life are for me to see my two daughters happy and to create a family history my grandparents and grandson would be proud of!

The post, Paniolo Ranch—a Boerne Area Wedding Venue, first appeared on Ata-Girl Photography Co.’s website and blog. Please feel free to comment here, or share this post with your friends via Facebook, Twitter or Pinterest. Please email me if you have any questions about this article or want to share a neat idea for a future blog post with me.

Mar
09

The Milestone in New Braunfels

When Noah and Martina were forced to have an indoor ceremony at the Milestone of New Braunfels, they handled it like champs. This unplanned detour might have sent a lot of brides into panic mode, but not Martina. She didn’t seem bothered by the rain that was slowly saturating everything outdoors. The only thing she seemed concerned with was that she was getting to marry Noah. (And besides, everyone knows that rain on your wedding is an old superstitious blessing. It means that your marriage will be blessed by fertility.)

groom getting dressed at The Milestone New Braunfels

I had the honor of shooting this hill country wedding at the Milestone in Boerne by working alongside Sara, from Sara Griffin Photography, as her second shooter. As her second shooter, my main task is to cover and document everything that happens with the groom prior to the ceremony. I actually enjoy this a lot, because when I’m shooting my own weddings, this is something that I always miss out on.

indoor ceremony, rain plan at The Milestone New Braunfels

The rain made the first look and little challenging because we had to shoot under the protection of the patio roof. So we were basically shooting in an “outdoor hallway.” I was Sara’s second, plus there were two videographers, making a total of four people trying to capture this moment. We had to be super diligent and extra cautious not to get into each other’s shots during such a tender moment. I decided to capture the moment from the rain so that I’d have a vantage point that no one else had under the porch.

The Milestone New Braunfels: a Texas Hill Country Wedding Venue

first look, groom getting emotional

Again, despite the icky rain and despite the obstacles, we were facing, all that mattered was that Noah and Martina were getting married. Noah seemed so happy that this day was finally here.

bride and groom first look creative session

When the DJ finally opened up the floor, the action was non-stop! There was one dance-off after another.

texas wedding reception

The evening concluded with a last, private dance for Martina and Noah to close the night…

bride and groom last dance at The Milestone New Braunfels

…and a bubble exit.

wedding bubble exit in new braunfels

Enjoy some of my favorite images from this Milestone Boerne, hill country wedding then be sure to watch the slideshow at the end!

If you’d like to see even more images from this Milestone Boerne, hill country wedding, please enjoy this video. For the best quality, be sure to change the video player settings to 1080 HD. 

Let’s “hangout!” I wanna hear about your love story!

Schedule a virtual or in-person discovery meetup!
For more options, visit my “Let’s Connect” page.

About Ata-Girl

I am a San Antonio-based wedding photographer and I cater to outdoor-loving couples who prefer to have all the realness captured on their wedding days. I am the wedding photographer for the outdoor adventurers, the romantics, the laid back, the snugglers, and those who wish to capture all their realness.

I am absolutely in love with capturing the kinds of weddings where there are more hugs than handshakes, the dance floor rumbles all night long, and chairs are pretty much rendered useless after dinner. Whiskey bottles are passed around, most of the wedding party has been best-best friends since kindergarten, Grams is likely to lose her shoes and your partner is much more emotional than you are. These kinds of weddings are my jam!

You can always call or text, but if you really want to get to know me, schedule a meetup!

I started Ata-Girl Photography Co., LLC in 2010. I firmly believe that the unique set of circumstances I have faced in life has prepared me to take a personal and genuine interest in my photography clients. I enjoy documenting the important milestones and captivating moments in people’s lives. I love being a part of people’s journeys and consider myself privileged to document their legacies.

If you enjoyed this blog post and would like to get your hands on 20 FREE interactive wedding planning tools that every couple needs, please take a moment to access them here.

I am a published author (purchase my book here), a podcast host (listen here) (watch here) and a WPPI-C certified professional, full-time wedding photographer. I specialize in a 10-day image delivery, same-day prints, same-day slideshows, Italian handcrafted wedding albums and I have a mobile meeting space.

When I’m not behind my camera, you can find me hiking, cycling, backpacking, camping, enjoying water sports, listening to music (Elvis and Prince), hunting for arrowheads, reading audiobooks, occasionally eating a few glazed donuts (my only weakness to sweets) and then re-starting my keto diet about every 10 days. The most important things in life are for me to see my two daughters happy and to create a family history my grandparents and grandson would be proud of.

Mar
02

The Bevy Hotel

I first met Susan Stricklin, the Director of Catering for the Bevy Hotel in Boerne, a few years ago when I was lucky enough to work on another project with her.

[Tweet “The Bevy Hotel: a Texas Hillcountry Wedding Venue”]

Maybe that’s why she wasn’t super surprised when I approached her with the brand new idea of having her brand new property as the first stop on a day I was calling a “field trip.” She obliged me by welcoming my San Antonio wedding professional friends and I with open arms. She even invited the Boerne Convention & Visitors Bureau to join us.

The Bevy Hotel: a Texas Hill Country Wedding Venue

We were treated to brunch, a tour of the hotel (rooms, suites, exercise rooms, heated pool area, and the event spaces), and even gifted a goodie bag filled with all sorts of wonderful things like a luggage tag from the Hill Country Mile, a jar of honey from Bevy Provisions Co., coffee beans from the Wander’n Calf, and possibly my favorite—a DoubleTree cookie! {Trivia: Did you know that this famous chocolate chip cookie is set to become the first-ever food baked in space?}

And just in case you overlooked my emphasis on the word “heated” above—they have a heated pool. This is a rare find in South Texas and sort of a big deal.

Okay, so what facts do you need to know about the Bevy as it relates to your wedding planning?

  • it’s brand-new construction, just finished in July of 2019
  • it has a very modern and neutral color palette
  • it’s filled with local flavor—wall art from local artists (photographers and painters) and they serve local brews and wines
  • 120 rooms and guest suites
  • there is 15,000 square feet of event space (indoor and outdoor combined) (11,200 sq. foot indoor space)
  • on-site catering available
  • all-inclusive packages designed to make your event a success
  • on-site restaurant
  • artisan coffee and homemade baked goods onsite from the Wander’n Calf Espresso Bar & Bakery
  • free parking
  • live music weekly (not really pertinent to your wedding, but could be relative to your pre-wedding arrival or post-wedding stay)

If you’re looking for that perfect hill country wedding venue and you’d like to arrange your own tour at The Bevy Hotel with Susan, you can reach out here:

Many thanks to my uber-talented and very beautiful friend Sonia, over at Aria Productions, for sharing some of the images she captured on the field trip and allowing me to include them herein.

If you enjoyed this blog post and would like to get your hands on 20 FREE interactive wedding planning tools that every couple needs, please take a moment to access them here.

You can always call or text, but if you really want to get to know me, schedule a meetup!


Let’s hangout! I wanna hear about your love story!

Schedule a virtual or in-person discovery meetup!
For more options, visit my “Let’s Connect” page.
san antonio senior portrait photographers ata-girl photography since 2010

I am San Antonio’s most unique wedding photographer. I specialize in a 10-day image delivery, same-day prints, same-day slideshows, Italian handcrafted wedding albums and I have a mobile meeting space.

I am a full-time, internationally-awarded and WPPI-C certified professional wedding and senior photographer based in South Texas near San Antonio. I offer a premier and personal service coupled with an unforgettable photography experience. I cater to clients who appreciate quality photography and help them to create family heirlooms that will last for generations.

I started Ata-Girl Photography Co., LLC in 2010. I firmly believe that the unique set of circumstances I have faced in life has prepared me to take a personal and genuine interest in my photography clients. I enjoy documenting the important milestones and captivating moments in people’s lives. I love being a part of people’s journey and consider myself privileged to document their legacies.

When I’m not photographing a wedding, family or high school senior, I love to spend my spare time hiking, camping, cycling, reading, listening to Elvis and Prince. The most important things in life are for me to see my two daughters happy and to create a family history my grandparents and grandson would be proud of!

The post, The Bevy Hotel—a Texas Hill Country Wedding Venue, first appeared on Ata-Girl Photography Co.’s website and blog. Please feel free to comment here, or share this post with your friends via Facebook, Twitter or Pinterest. Please email me if you have any questions about this article or want to share a neat idea for a future blog post with me.

May
29

Oaks at Heavenly Wedding

Check out this Oaks at Heavenly wedding! If you’re a wedding professional or have numerous friends and get invited to a lot of weddings in the San Antonio area, then you are probably familiar with this wall. This wall is… well, heavenly. Of course.

The first time I had the privilege at shooting at The Oaks at Heavenly was with lead photographer Sara Griffin of Sara Griffin Photography. Yes, I love my second shooting gigs—and for many reasons! First, it gives me an opportunity to keep my skills sharp. It gives me a bit of freedom to experiment and try things that maybe I wouldn’t ordinarily at my own weddings. I’m not talking about anything crazy like climbing onto a rooftop and hanging upside-down to get a shot, but more like using gridded speedlights during more of the reception, or challenging myself to find extremely new and unique angles, or possibly using just one lens for an entire hour.

Oaks at Heavenly Wedding

But also, second shooting usually always means that I am assigned to the groom and his entourage prior to the ceremony. This is something I never get to do at my own weddings. I don’t get to hang out with the rowdy groomsmen swilling tequila, telling inappropriate jokes, and letting unbecoming sounds escape from their bodies. I don’t get to watch Dad watch his son getting dressed for the big day and gently remind the other boys to dial it down just a bit that there will be plenty of time for hell raising. I don’t get to see the groom’s face swell with emotion as he reads a final love letter from his lover bride before she meets him under the altar. These are all tender moments I miss 100% of the time when I don’t second shoot.

Kelli and Jay’s wedding day was beautiful. During the day, the sun was out in full force but the temperature never stretched beyond a cool, flawless 68°. The night temperature dropped, but still was ideally bearable—especially for a sweater. The day was perfectly suited for a Texas hill country wedding.

[Tweet “The Oaks at Heavenly Wedding”]

In reference to spending the pre-ceremony with Jay, there was no rambunctious behavior, no colorful language, no jokes or gestures directed at the groom for his pinheaded decision to “get hitched.” In his case, it was just an afternoon spent with his kids and closest friends on the day he wed the love of his life. Although, his two sons did happen to ceremoniously swill copious amounts of water from the shot glasses.

Please enjoy these few images depicting the sweetness that happened that day.

**The images contained in this blog post were shot under the direction and for assignment of Sara Griffin Photography. The images are copyrighted but used herein with permission.

If you enjoyed this blog post and would like to get your hands on 20 FREE interactive wedding planning tools that every couple needs, please take a moment to access them here.

You can always call or text, but if you really want to get to know me, schedule a meetup!


Let’s hangout! I wanna hear about your love story!

Schedule a virtual or in-person discovery meetup!
For more options, visit my “Let’s Connect” page.
san antonio senior portrait photographers ata-girl photography since 2010

I am San Antonio’s most unique wedding photographer. I specialize in a 10-day image delivery, same-day prints, same-day slideshows, Italian handcrafted wedding albums and I have a mobile meeting space.

I am a full-time, internationally-awarded and WPPI-C certified professional wedding and senior photographer based in South Texas near San Antonio. I offer a premier and personal service coupled with an unforgettable photography experience. I cater to clients who appreciate quality photography and help them to create family heirlooms that will last for generations.

I started Ata-Girl Photography Co., LLC in 2010. I firmly believe that the unique set of circumstances I have faced in life has prepared me to take a personal and genuine interest in my photography clients. I enjoy documenting the important milestones and captivating moments in people’s lives. I love being a part of people’s journeys and consider myself privileged to document their legacies.

When I’m not photographing a wedding, family or high school senior, I love to spend my spare time hiking, camping, cycling, reading, listening to Elvis and Prince. The most important things in life are for me to see my two daughters happy and to create a family history my grandparents and grandson would be proud of!

The post, The Oaks at Heavenly Wedding, first appeared on Ata-Girl Photography Co.’s website and blog. Please feel free to comment here, or share this post with your friends via Facebook, Twitter or Pinterest. Please email me if you have any questions about this article or want to share a neat idea for a future blog post with me.

Apr
23

Texas Barn Wedding

Melanie and Nick’s Texas barn wedding day started off as any other—for the most part. Each was finishing to get ready while others scrambled to make last-minute preparations for the day. If there were any worries, stress, or concerns that Melanie or Nick had, they weren’t letting on. Each seemed calm, cool, and extremely relaxed. I didn’t sense any apprehension or anxiety about either of their lives changing drastically from this day forward. 

The calmness and sureness were most evident when Nick came to Melanie’s getting-ready room for a pre-ceremony no peek first look. They held hands around a closet door and Nick led the two in a beautiful, heartfelt prayer.

texas barn wedding at the firefly farm in wimberly texas

Texas Barn Wedding

I always have mixed feelings about witnessing these kinds of private, intimate moments. On one hand, I am delighted that I am the photographer who gets to capture this moment for the couple. I get to preserve this exact second in an image that the two will be able to reflect back on forever to relive their feelings, thoughts, and emotions. I create a tangible tool to help them do that.

On the other hand, I feel intrusive looking at such a special moment. I feel like I should not have the privilege to see such intimacy between two loving people—that this should be something that only they experience. Sometimes, I have to actually force myself to keep shooting through the moment and not allow myself to walk away.

Another very special moment is when a daughter allows her father the first look on her wedding day. This is such a huge token of love and gratitude to me. In essence, she is saying, “Before all others, I want you to see me. I love you.”

father and daughter have a pre-wedding ceremony first look

This is certainly not a warm and fuzzy moment, but equally meaningful. The groom’s closest friends offer one last toast before he waits for this bride to walk down the aisle.

The ring exchange is always an impactful moment!

wedding ceremony ring exchange at firefly farm barn wedding

Can you just feel the love that Nick has for Melanie in this image? Look how he adores Melanie with his eyes. I bet she is lost right now.

bride and groom, wedding ceremony

And finally, the two are one and find cause for celebration!

bride and groom wedding recessional

More Images

Enjoy some of my favorite images from Melanie and Nick’s hill country wedding then be sure to watch the slideshow at the end!

If you’d like to see more images from this wedding at Firefly Farm Events, please enjoy this video. For the best quality, be sure to change the video player settings to 1080 HD. 

Let’s “hangout!” I wanna hear about your love story!

Schedule a virtual or in-person discovery meetup!
For more options, visit my “Let’s Connect” page.

About Ata-Girl

I am a San Antonio-based wedding photographer and I cater to outdoor-loving couples who prefer to have all the realness captured on their wedding days. I am the wedding photographer for the outdoor adventurers, the romantics, the laid back, the snugglers, and those who wish to capture all their realness.

I am absolutely in love with capturing the kinds of weddings where there are more hugs than handshakes, the dance floor rumbles all night long, and chairs are pretty much rendered useless after dinner. Whiskey bottles are passed around, most of the wedding party has been best-best friends since kindergarten, Grams is likely to lose her shoes and your partner is much more emotional than you are. These kinds of weddings are my jam!

You can always call or text, but if you really want to get to know me, schedule a meetup!

I started Ata-Girl Photography Co., LLC in 2010. I firmly believe that the unique set of circumstances I have faced in life has prepared me to take a personal and genuine interest in my photography clients. I enjoy documenting the important milestones and captivating moments in people’s lives. I love being a part of people’s journeys and consider myself privileged to document their legacies.

If you enjoyed this blog post and would like to get your hands on 20 FREE interactive wedding planning tools that every couple needs, please take a moment to access them here.

I am a published author (purchase my book here), a podcast host (listen here) (watch here) and a WPPI-C certified professional, full-time wedding photographer. I specialize in a 10-day image delivery, same-day prints, same-day slideshows, Italian handcrafted wedding albums and I have a mobile meeting space.

When I’m not behind my camera, you can find me hiking, cycling, backpacking, camping, enjoying water sports, listening to music (Elvis and Prince), hunting for arrowheads, reading audiobooks, occasionally eating a few glazed donuts (my only weakness to sweets) and then re-starting my keto diet about every 10 days. The most important things in life are for me to see my two daughters happy and to create a family history my grandparents and grandson would be proud of.

The post, Firefly Farm Hill Country Wedding, first appeared on Ata-Girl Photography Co.’s website and blog. Please feel free to comment here, or share this post with your friends via Facebook, Twitter or Pinterest. Please email me if you have any questions about this article or want to share a neat idea for a future blog post with me.

Apr
05

Gruene Estate Wedding

This Gruene Estate wedding was filled with so much genuine fun and laughter. Oftentimes, on wedding days, I don’t usually get to see the couple truly enjoy each other or the day itself. I assume the bride and groom become so wrapped up in the actual day, the pressure to interact with each and every one of their guests, remembering to do and say everything right, worry over small details that may or may not be remembered the next day, or perhaps just forgetting to breathe it all in and simply enjoy the moment. But this was NOT the case at Chris and Emily’s Gruene Estate wedding.

gruene estate wedding

[Tweet “Gruene Estate Wedding”]

They laughed. The smiled. Unquestionably, they enjoyed their whole wedding day in its entirety. 

Even when something crummy happened… like Emily and her father stumbling on the bottom step and nearly tumbling to the ground… Emily stayed the course. She regained her footing and her composure with the biggest, prettiest smile on her face. It appeared that she actually found humor in the fact that she nearly face-planted on the way to her own wedding.

Luckily only a handful of guests saw this happen. More importantly, Chris did not see this happen. The Gruene Estate is an open air chapel with a 40- or 50-yard walk from the covered reception hall to the chapel. The chapel’s back wall completely blocked most of the guests’ view except for some on the right-hand side of the chapel who had turned in their seats to witness the bride’s entire processional. 

This mishap would have probably sent most brides running back to their getting-ready room. But not Emily! This bride had the mindset of a Ninja Warrior having fun at her wedding.

this is an image of a father getting ready to walk his daughter down the aisle at gruene estate wedding in new braunfels texas hill country wedding by san antonio wedding photographers _4S10011

What was absolutely ironic was that Chris’ vows included something along the lines of, “… and even if you fall down today …  .” The second these words were spoken from Chris’ mouth, Emily (and her dad) erupted into laughter. Chris went totally improv, abandoned his vows and asked, “Did you fall down on the way here?” which was followed by even more laughter.

this is an image of a bride and groom during their wedding ceremony at gruene estate wedding in new braunfels texas hill country wedding by san antonio wedding photographers _4S10011

I am not sure if Emily ever stopped smiling on her wedding day. I can attest that the day was filled with much love, happiness, laughter, fun and friendship!

Gruene Estate Wedding

Enjoy some of my favorite images from Chris and Emily’s wedding at Gruene Estate then be sure to watch the slideshow at the end!

If you’d like to see even more images from this Gruene Estate wedding, please enjoy this video. For the best quality, be sure to change the video player settings to 1080 HD. 

Let’s “hangout!” I wanna hear about your love story!

Schedule a virtual or in-person discovery meetup!
For more options, visit my “Let’s Connect” page.

About Ata-Girl

I am a San Antonio-based wedding photographer and I cater to outdoor-loving couples who prefer to have all the realness captured on their wedding days. I am the wedding photographer for the outdoor adventurers, the romantics, the laid back, the snugglers, and those who wish to capture all their realness.

I am absolutely in love with capturing the kinds of weddings where there are more hugs than handshakes, the dance floor rumbles all night long, and chairs are pretty much rendered useless after dinner. Whiskey bottles are passed around, most of the wedding party has been best-best friends since kindergarten, Grams is likely to lose her shoes and your partner is much more emotional than you are. These kinds of weddings are my jam!

You can always call or text, but if you really want to get to know me, schedule a meetup!

I started Ata-Girl Photography Co., LLC in 2010. I firmly believe that the unique set of circumstances I have faced in life has prepared me to take a personal and genuine interest in my photography clients. I enjoy documenting the important milestones and captivating moments in people’s lives. I love being a part of people’s journeys and consider myself privileged to document their legacies.

If you enjoyed this blog post and would like to get your hands on 20 FREE interactive wedding planning tools that every couple needs, please take a moment to access them here.

I am a published author (purchase my book here), a podcast host (listen here) (watch here) and a WPPI-C certified professional, full-time wedding photographer. I specialize in a 10-day image delivery, same-day prints, same-day slideshows, Italian handcrafted wedding albums and I have a mobile meeting space.

When I’m not behind my camera, you can find me hiking, cycling, backpacking, camping, enjoying water sports, listening to music (Elvis and Prince), hunting for arrowheads, reading audiobooks, occasionally eating a few glazed donuts (my only weakness to sweets) and then re-starting my keto diet about every 10 days. The most important things in life are for me to see my two daughters happy and to create a family history my grandparents and grandson would be proud of.

The post, Gruene Estate Wedding, first appeared on Ata-Girl Photography Co.’s website and blog. Please feel free to comment here, or share this post with your friends via Facebook, Twitter or Pinterest. Please email me if you have any questions about this article or want to share a neat idea for a future blog post with me.

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