Kelly + Wes' Allan House Wedding | Austin Designer + Full Service Wedding Planner

We say this all the time, but we always mean it, we just get to work with the sweetest couples!! Kelly and Wes were another one of those wonderful couples that we had the honor and pleasure of planning their wedding celebration. Like many of our brides & grooms, they live in Houston but Kelly travels to Austin frequently for work and they always enjoyed their visits to the vibrant downtown area. They selected The Allan House, an intimate and historic manor right in the heart of downtown, which just so happens to be one of our favorite Austin venues!

The ladies spent wedding morning getting beautiful at a nearby rental house, and then headed over to The Allan House to get into their dresses and start the pre-ceremony photos with the always wonderful Julie Wilhite Photography. Kelly and her father did the cutest first look, giving us vibes of many games of peek-a-boo played in their past. The guys arrived a bit later fully dressed and ready to toast the soon to be Mr and Mrs Wray!

The Allan House is a staple of Austin wedding venues, and Kelly and Wes used it as the background to their many pre-ceremony photos. The decided to forgo a first look and do photos with immediate family and wedding party early. We always suggest taking some photos prior to your ceremony, it not only saves you time after but also gives you some time to get comfortable in front of the camera.

With photos done it was time for guests to arrive and the ceremony, the ladies had time to freshen up and Kelly got the put the final touches on her wedding day look. With the help of her mom, she put on her veil and was ready to walk down the aisle. But before the ceremony started, Julie Wilhite captured the beautiful florals under the clear top tent.

Once it was time for the ceremony to begin Kelly walked down the aisle on the arm of her father, while being serenaded by the music of the Musical Discovery Chamber Players of Austin. They wanted to focus of the wedding to be “keeping the main thing the main thing” and you can tell they stayed true to that. We love these photos as well because they show just how in love these two, the way Wes looks at his bride just makes us weak in the knees ❤️

As guests enjoyed delicious hors d’oeuvres from Royal Fig Catering, the wedding party went back to the front of The Allan House for more breathtaking photographs in front of the historic house. There were so many amazing ones of Kelly and Wes it was hard to narrow it down!! These two experienced love at first sight, after being setup by a mutual friend to attend a birthday party where they were the only single guests there, and they were so happy to be husband and wife.

Their wedding had so many beautifully classic elements that it will never go out of style. White hydrangea, roses, and ranunculus accented with eucalyptus from The Last Petal Floral Studio paired with white linens and gold charges from Premier Events made their dreams come to reality. One of our favorite elements was the simple green wreath in the window. It might have been a small detail, but its those little details that make the biggest impact!

After all the formal pictures were taken, and guests had time to mingle, it was time to get the reception under way. The happy couple started it off with a heartfelt kiss under the stars and then dinner service began. Guests enjoyed a plated salad followed by Royal Fig’s delicious farm to table family style meal. We love family style so guests can choose what they want yet they don’t have to worry about walking around with a plate of food.

No wedding would be complete with traditional elements, and this one was no exception. Guests were treated to heartfelt toasts from the best man, maid of honor, and the father of the bride as dinner was wrapping up. Followed by the dances where the love between Kelly and Wes, and their parents, was on full display. You can’t forget dessert! Not only did they have the cake, but also a s’mores bar which always brings the fun.

The sun had set, the guests were full, and drinks were in hand, that means its time to celebrate! Love and Happiness came ready to entertain and the guests were ready to dance, and not just the young crowd!!

Hours of celebrating later, it was time to send the newlyweds off in style, but first…their private last dance. This is by far our favorite new wedding tradition of the past 10 years. Having that time at the end, with just the two of you, is a moment that you will not forget and gives you the chance to enjoy this amazing day.

Once the dance was over the new Mr & Mrs made their grand exit through the sound of maracas to their own decorated pedicab to whisk them away on the streets of Austin.

It was truly and honor and pleasure being part of your day Mr and Mrs Wray!

Cast of Austin Wedding Vendors

Venue: The Allan House

Photography: Julie Wilhite Photography

Floral: Last Petal Floral Studio

Caterer: Royal Fig Catering

Cake: Sugar Mama’s Bakeshop

Band: Love and Happiness

Ceremony Musicians: Musical Discovery Chamber Players of Austin

Lighting: Ilios Productions

Rentals: Premiere Events Austin

Hair: Erica Rae

Makeup: Nisa Nicole

Departure: Metrocycle Pedicabs

8 Top Austin Wedding Venues

Getting married in Austin, Texas? Then this post is for you! If you’re in the early stages of wedding planning, you’re likely searching for the perfect venue. Your venue is an important choice, as it will dictate almost every other aspect of the day. One must choose wisely and follow their heart- no pressure, right?!

Below we’re giving you the details on eight of our favorite Austin Wedding Venues to add to you list of possible options!

John Winters Photo

Brazos Hall, Downtown Austin

Converted from a 1900's grain mill into an elegant mixed-use event venue with restored long-leaf pine floors, brick walls and wood rafters,  this turn-of-the-century warehouse building has loads of room and character.

They have two unique spaces- a Main Hall and a Rooftop Deck. In the Main Hall they can accommodate around 350 guests, depending on how you layout the room. The rooftop deck is a stunning bonus space that works great for ceremonies and cocktail hours.

One of our all-time favorite weddings was at Brazos Hall. Be sure to check it out here: Kady and Nathan’s Brazos Hall Wedding. Hop on over to the ‘gram here: Brazos Hall Instagram and browse their website here.

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Photo Credit: Driskill Hotel

The Driskill, Downtown Austin

Built in 1886 as the showplace of a cattle baron, The Driskill remains a landmark of legendary Texas hospitality. Located in the heart of downtown Austin, this historic hotel is convenient to all that the city has to offer.

The Driskill has four spaces: The Mezzanine, The Victorian Room, The Crystal Room and The Citadel +Club.
Jenny + Travis’s wedding at The Driskill is throwing it back a bit, but we still love it!

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Photo: Kelly Masten/Four Seasons Website

Four Seasons, Downtown Austin

Four Seasons hotels have always been known for impeccable service and opulent accommodations. Their Austin property is no different!

This venue has amazing lakefront views and hidden gems around every corer. They have two spaces- the Lawn + the Ballroom. With room to host events of up to 550, it is a great option for a large wedding.

Jessica + Joel’s Four Seasons Austin wedding is another throwback that we love (we’ve worked with this family multiple times).

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Angela King Photography

Ma Maison, Dripping Springs, TX

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 their French heritage, their 10,000-square foot property and immaculately designed outdoor sites provide an oasis of natural beauty. They have several gorgeous outdoor sites to choose from - The Grove, The Green Cathedral (one of the most unique and recognizable parts of the property, in our option) and The Lake View. Between the spaces (and depending on the set-up), they can accommodate several hundred guests.

For covered and indoor spaces, they have The Trellis (a great plan B for outdoor weddings) and The Great Hall. The Chapel is a new addition that is under construction that we’re really excited about!

We’ve worked at Ma Maison quite a few times and never fail to love it! Check out these recent weddings: Eric + Liza | Carly + Caleb | Meredith + Stephen. Find Ma Maison on the gram here and browse their website here.

Julie Wilhite Photography

The Allan House, Downtown Austin

The Allan House is another Austin wedding venue that you’ll find us at often. This venue is a charming Victorian home built in 1883. The outdoor space is stunning! Although they have indoor and outdoor options, most of our couples prefer to enjoy festivities beneath the stars.

The Allan House is “Victorian charm and modern sophistication” to a T! The venue can accommodate 200 guests.

Check out our most recent couples’ amazing weddings here: Brittany + Jason | Kelly + Wes | Dixie + Jason

Still want more? Check out The Allan House Instagram + Website too!

https://www.camplucy.com/gallery/

Camp Lucy, Dripping Springs, TX

Located on 275 picturesque acres of countryside, Camp Lucy is home to four truly unique, elegant Hill Country venues, each with its own special features. Ian’s Chapel (pictured above), Sacred Oaks, Whit’s Inn and The Vinyard. They also have on-site lodging, make it not only convenient but a true retreat experience.

We recently planned and AMAZING wedding for Mallary and Ryan’s at Camp Lucy. We don’t have photos yet, but should have them soon! In the meantime, check Instagram for updates and these throwbacks: Heather + Jason | Sara + Rico

Photo: www.austincountryclub.com

Austin Country Club

Founded in 1899, Austin Country Club is one of the oldest existing clubs in Texas and home to one of the greatest golf instructors who ever lived, Harvey Penick. A private, family-orientated club, all private events must be sponsored by a member of the club.

Located along the banks of the Colorado River with Austin's iconic Pennybacker Bridge as its backdrop. The property spans over 180 acres of hill country vistas and canyon views in Davenport Ranch. They have a beautiful indoor and outdoor space that is ideal for luxurious, intimate, traditional weddings.

Would you believe we’ve been doing wedding so long that Lauren + Braxton are going on 8 years of marriage?!

Photo: www.omnihotels.com

Omni's Barton Creek Resort

Secluded in the rolling hill country- the 4,000 acre newly-renovated Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa is the ultimate retreat location. They have SIX venue options- two ballrooms, a Pavillion, The Barton Creek Room, The Palm Court and The Rock House. The largest accommodating 400 and the smallest, accommodating up to 60 (great for small, intimate weddings)

We hope this has given you some venue inspiration! If you need help making the decision, we’d be happy to assist you. Contact us today!

And if these choices don’t fit your needs, Check out this comprehensive list of Austin + Houston’s Wedding Venues that we wrote in 2019!

Brittany + Jason's Allan House Wedding | Austin Wedding Designer & Planner

Brittany and Jason came from different worlds but met in the middle for their new beginning together. She’s a biology teacher who grew up on Long Island, and he’s a lawyer from Texas who was pulled to NYC for law school. Together with the help of her sister, Elissa, and Something to Celebrate (we also handled the design portion), they planned a Texas wedding that celebrated their combined cultures and interfaith traditions. 

Jason also serves as commander in the National Guard, and used obtaining that position as part of his proposal plan! He took Brittany to their favorite restaurant in Manhattan, Del Posto, to celebrate his recent promotion but as soon as they approached the restaurant he said “We aren’t here to celebrate me ... we are here to celebrate us! Will you marry me???”

In designing the look and feel of Brittany and Jason’s wedding, the group unanimously agreed that The Allen House, with its canopy of oaks centrally located in Austin, would be the perfect backdrop for the celebration.  

The neutral palette of whites and greens was rich with textures from their custom-ordered linens and mismatched vintage glassware, paired with floral china and wooden chargers banded by satin napkins. The chuppah sat beneath chandeliers trailing strings of Edison bulb lights. 

Their elegant yet laid-back and FUN celebration featured stunning place settings for their robust menu consisting of everything from the bride’s favorite mini hotdogs and southern deviled egg biscuits, to Ribeye steaks and honey fried chicken, after guests were greeted with bubbles from a champagne cart. After the wedding cake and ice cream cookie sandwiches paired with custom cappuccinos, guests parted with late-night snacks of grilled cheese sandwiches and junior Whataburgers. 

The dance floor was never empty, as captured by the graffiti-styled live painter, and the bride herself took to the mic a couple of times- we just can’t resist a good Radio Gaga!

We could go on and on about the flawless celebration these two hosted, but the most memorable aspect of the day was no doubt the love shared between all who were gathered. With warm hugs and sincere smiles, the love that brought these two worlds together was united as one. Congratulations, Brittany and Jason!

Be sure to pick up a copy of the Spring/Summer 2020 issue of Brides of Austin to see the full feature (pages 176-177)!

Cast of Austin Wedding Vendors

Planning and Design: Something To Celebrate

Venue: The Allan House

Caterer: Royal Fig

Cake: Sugar Mama’s Bakeshop

Ceremony Music: Will Taylor

DJ: Spacecraft Entertainment

Photographer: Julie Wilhite Photography

Videographer: ILC Films

Event Painter: Gonzo Viz

Photobooth: Pixster

Floral Designer: Last Petal Floral Studio

Coffee Bar: Creature Coffee

Alcohol: Spec’s 61

Bourbon: The Austin Wine Merchant

Champagne Cart: Champagne Supply Co

Event Rentals: Premiere Events

Lighting: Ilios

Wedding Day Stationery and Signs: The Inviting Pear

Hair and Makeup: Adore

Officiants: Rabbi Monty Eliasov and Pastor Jon Perrin

Dixie & Jason's The Allan House Wedding | Austin Wedding Designer & Planner

One of the best seasons of the year in Texas is the fall. Though we typically don’t experience the brilliant foliage colors or more drastic temperature changes as our friends up north, we do witness the beautiful warm glow that the sun casts in the early evening. That glow was on full display for Dixie and Jason’s Austin wedding day, and it made their tent at Allan House even more beautiful. But, before we dive too far into the details, allow us to share more about Dixie and Jason. 

First, we have to say- Dixie and Jason are two of the sweetest people we’ve ever met! They both have hearts of gold and serve our country and community in different ways (Dixie as a nurse and Jason as a Marine). It was a privilege to work with the two of them and their kind personalities lit US up!

On their wedding day, D+J each spent their mornings getting ready with their wedding party. They opted against a first look and instead saw each other for the first time when she walked down the aisle on the arm of her dad at Saint Mary Cathedral. With its towering wooden front doors and beautiful interior, we cannot think of a more fitting location for Dixie and Jason to recite their vows and officially become Mr. and Mrs.! While they were planning, D+J made one of their wishes very clear: They wanted to make sure to do a sword ceremony. It was one of the ways to honor his position in the Marines, and one of our favorite moments of their wedding was witnessing their shared arch moment post-ceremony. 

Once they were at Allan House, Dixie and Jason caught their first glimpse of their wedding reception location. Clear top tents always have their own magic, especially during the fall when the temperatures have dropped slightly, and the space simply glowed later in the evening. Tree trunks were wrapped in string lights, chandeliers hung overhead (another favorite detail), and tables were lined with a stunning mixture of candles and merlot, ivory, and navy centerpieces with touches of gold by Exquisite Petals.   We LOVE the touches of velvet too!

After they enjoyed cocktail hour, Dixie, Jason, and their guests joined together for a night filled with great food, thanks to Salt Lick, and plenty of dancing while Drywater Texas played. Watching guests mingle together in a beautiful setting and then jump onto the dance floor is one of our favorite things about planning – events are meant to be enjoyed by everyone. 

Before the night came to a close, Dixie and Jason walked through an arch one more time. But, this time it was an arch created by sparklers held by all of their close friends and family. It was the perfect way to end their wedding day, and we’re so thrilled to be able to share all of the moments The Bird & The Bear captured with you. 

Cast of Austin wedding vendors

Church: Saint Mary Cathedral

Venue: Allan House

Caterer: Salt Lick

Bartender: Elevate Professional Bartending Service

Alcohol: Specs

Cake: Dream Bakery

Florist: Exquisite Petals

Photo + Video: The Bird & The Bear

Band: Drywater Texas

Rentals: Birch & Brass + Premiere

LIghting: Ilios

Transportation: Circle J Vintage Cars, 4 Leaf Limo, Limos of Austin

Hair + Makeup: Kiss by Katie

Kelly + Wes's Allan House Wedding | Austin Wedding Designer & Planner

Kelly and Wes’s Allan House wedding was a dream! This outdoor garden fairytale was brimming with classic, chic details. We were delighted to help this sweet couple with everything from their budget to their vendor selections.

The wedding day was incredibly Intimate (under 90 guests) - the ambiance was fantastic and there was no shortage of great food and fantastic music. We love that the couple prioritized having an amazing experience for themselves and the guests.

Wedding Menu

We had so much fun with Kelly and Wes at their tastings to design this menu!

For cocktail hour, Steak tartare spoons, Mushroom polenta cakes and Blackened shrimp tostadas were passed in the courtyard while we flipped the room (as we say in wedding world) from ceremony to reception set-up.

The plated dinner was either Texas Ribeye or Seared Redfish with Duck Fat Roasted Potatoes, Roasted Asparagus with lemon vinaigrette and Kabocha Squash with farro and parmesan. You’ll see the tiniest F or S at the bottom of each place card, which allowed the servers to know which mean each guest selected. Tip- an option is to switch up the colors or design on the cards or add some kind of embellishment (feathers, hand drawn detail, stamp, etc.)

Music Choices

As the cocktail hour came to a close, guests heard “Your Hand In Mine” by Explosions in the Sky.

Mr & Mrs Wray were introduced to the tune of “When the Levee Breaks” by Led Zeppelin and the couple shared their first dance and husband and wife to "Into the Mystic" by Van Morrison.

Kelly and her dad chose "How Sweet It Is" by James Taylor for the Father-Daughter dance, while Wes and his mom selected "Days Like This" by Van Morrison for Mother-Son dance.

A bit later in the evening the band surprised the officiant with their rendition of Happy Birthday.

To wrap up the night, Kelly and Wes shared a private Last Dance to "My First, My Last, My Everything" by Barry White performed live, once guests cleared courtyard. It was an ADORABLE moment that every couple deserves! If you want to have some private time with your sweetie during the wedding day, a first look and/or last dance is a great time to do it.

Be sure to check out the couple’s hashtag, #KellyGetsHerWray. Congrats again Mr & Mrs. Wray!

Wedding Planning: Something to Celebrate

Photographer: Julie Wilhite Photography

Caterer: Royal Fig

Cake: Sugar Mama's Bakeshop

Alcohol: Spec's 61

Florals: Last Petal Floral Studio

Rentals + Tent: Premiere Events

Lighting: Ilios Lighting Design

Hair: Erica Rae

Makeup: Nisa Nicole Makeup Artistry

Officiant: Carmen Armistead (bride’s high school principal!)

Ceremony/Cocktail Hour Music: Musical Discovery

Reception Music: Love & Happiness Band

Transportation: Metrocycle

Weddings to Celebrate: M'Lynn & Matt, The Allan House | Austin Wedding Planner

M'Lynn and Matt are one of those couples who radiate love for each other. It makes my job so fun! M'Lynn and I worked on the design together and we had so much fun creating a wintery, sparkly, gorgeous evening where their friends and family could enjoy good food, good drinks and good company. I think we did a fabulous job:).

M'Lynn paid attention to the details (you know I love that!)--for her something borrowed, she used a swatch of a blue and white striped shirt of her grandfather's, who had recently passed away, and for her something borrowed (and old) she wore an absolutely stunning Art Deco ring from Matt's mother's family. I love it when there are personal details that make the bride feel extra loved and special!

M'Lynn and Matt, I'm so glad I got to work with you, and I wish you a lifetime of happiness together!

--Katie

Enjoy these photos from The Life You Love!

Cast of Vendors

Planning and design: Katie Netherton, Something to Celebrate

Venue: The Allan House

Catering: Royal Fig

Photography: The Life You Love

Flowers: Last Petal

Rentals: Marquee

Lighting: Ilios

Bride's Cake: Sugar Mama's

Groom's Cake: Michelle's Patisserie

Ceremony Music: Mark A. Cruz

Reception Music: Strings Attached

Hair: L7 Salon

Makeup: Christy Edlin

Our brides are the best :)

I've said it before and I'll say it again, we are blessed with the sweetest brides ever! I am so moved when a bride takes time out of her honeymoon to send me a thank you note. Emily sent this three days after her wedding at The Allan House:

Jessica-
I'm not sure I'll ever be able to thank you enough for helping to make our wedding such an amazing, special day. Truly, from the moment you stepped in you were a tremendous help, and we really appreciated all of your hard work. MY WEDDING WAS PERFECT! I wouldn't change even one moment, second, song, ANYTHING about the entire weekend..... I think that makes it a huge success. We are so blessed to have had such an amazing tribute of our love/relationship. Thank you again and best of luck with the baby!
Emily

You see what I mean? So sweet! :) It's a pleasure to work for people who make us feel so appreciated. I can't wait until Emily returns to real life and we can talk more about her amazing day. Stay tuned for pictures!
-jessica

Kaylie and Sam

Take a look at these pictures of Kaylie and Sam's wedding at The Allan House, coordinated by Cortney and Becky of the Something To Celebrate team. Images by Anthology Photography. Congratulations Kaylie and Sam!