Austin Elopement at Carpenter Hotel and UMLAUF Sculpture Garden

Elopement

Cheyenne and Kenny always knew they wanted to get married but never envisioned a big celebration. Cheyenne has lost both her parents, and trying to plan a ceremony with other relatives didn’t feel quite right. So, the couple decided to plan an elopement instead, keeping the focus on their love (next year, they plan to host a party on their anniversary!). They booked their favorite stay in Austin, Carpenter Hotel, and snagged the dreamy sculpture garden nearby for their intimate ceremony. I was there to capture it all!

Carpenter Hotel and UMLAUF Sculpture Garden Elopement

The couple asked a close mutual friend to officiate their ceremony, nestled among the gorgeous fall foliage at UMLAUF Sculpture Garden. While it rained on and off during the day, from an artistic perspective, it only added another layer of magic! I know most couples despise the idea of rain on their wedding day. However, if we plan accordingly with clear umbrellas, there’s no reason to worry. I always encourage letting go of the idea that your dress has to look perfect (no matter what, it WILL get dirty) and embracing the romance of running around together in the rain.

After our portrait session in the garden, Cheyenne and Kenny took a break from the weather in Carpenters Hall. They sipped margaritas and basked in newlywed bliss. I loved how they had complete freedom to make their day their own! We strolled the grounds of Carpenter Hotel together to capture a few more photos there. Then, as dusk fell, we took off for the Pluger Pedestrian Bridge. We took the last batch of portraits against the stunning backdrop of downtown Austin.

My favorite weddings and elopements are laidback, like this one. The most memorable moments happen when a couple lets go of their expectations, lets their hair get wet from the rain, and embraces being present with each other. Looking back, I know Cheyenne and Kenny will remember the laughter they shared as they ran through the rain and their conversation over margaritas as they warmed up inside their favorite hotel. Genuine, unscripted, and relaxed—those are the moments worth capturing.

Contact me to learn more about my artistic process and book photography for your Austin elopement. I can’t wait to hear your vision for your day!

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