Most of our blogs start right away talking about the couple, for a very good reason of course, they are the stars of the event, but we are gonna go a little crazy and change it up a bit today. Jennifer & Eric chose the Commodore Perry Estate to hold their wedding celebration, it was the first time we got to work there, and it was also the first time we got to work with their amazing photographer Sarah Doliver, and it was the perfect pairing!

Commodore Perry Estate describes itself as “a treasured Austin landmark, re-envisioned with modern glamour” and I could think of no better way to say that myself. Set on 10 acres in the heart of Austin, it gives that relaxed and comfortable Austin vibe while you are surrounded by glam and design elements everywhere you turn. Words can not do it justice, so just enjoy the pictures!!

Jennifer & Eric were one of the many couples impacted by COVID but they didn’t let that get in the way of them becoming husband and wife. They kept their original wedding date in April of 2021 and got married on the stage of ACL in front of their immediate families only. However, Jennifer’s mother Sharon, wanted her daughter to have the beautiful wedding with family and friends that was originally planned, and one year later they had their big day!

Since they had already celebrated their one year anniversary by the time of their “wedding day”, they kept the wedding low key and simple so they could truly sit back and enjoy the day. With no “formal” wedding party Jennifer got ready with her mom and a few friends in her suite, and both spent most of the pre-ceremony time with their parents and siblings on the beautiful grounds of the estate.

They also decided for a first look so that they could fully be part of the cocktail reception, which was a huge priority for them. They wanted to be present and with guests as often as possible; they wanted to be part of the day, not have the day be all about them.

With their first look and all formal photos with family out of the way, Jennifer & Eric were able to take photos all over the picturesque grounds and still have time to relax in the mansion before the ceremony began. They even had their officiant (who is also one of the bride’s best friends) bring them pre-ceremony cocktails as they waited!

Under the glorious spring sun, the sunken garden was ready for Jennifer & Eric to say “I do”. Sixpence Floral Design used pastel shades of pink, purple, and ivory roses, ranunculus, and tulips accompanied by lilac, astilbe, and sweet peas; a perfect combination for a sunny garden wedding. It paired perfectly with the existing pink garden rose bushes surrounding the sunken gardens. The free standing altar piece made a beautiful backdrop for their touching and heartfelt ceremony full of love and laughter.

Cocktail hour on the chapel terrace was a lively event. Their photo guest book was a huge hit, with guests taking pictures of themselves, of friends, and even our assistant Jean helping out and snapping quite a few photos herself :) The decor was simple with all the natural beauty around, just a few small centerpieces, and the pièce de résistance (the champagne fountain) front and center. Jennifer sabered that bottle of bubbles like a pro, with all her guests looking on and Eric loving the show more than anyone else! 🍾

After overlooking the beautiful tent during cocktail hour, they guests were finally able to go sit down and get out of the hot April heat for dinner and toasts as the sun set and painted the perfect backdrop. They couple opted to use the included ivory linens and chairs from the venue, and accompany them with spring centerpieces from Sixpence and custom menu cards, place cards, and table numbers from Pink Champagne Designs. Can we just take a moment to stare in awe at those tulips, we were in love 🌷

Commodore Perry served a plated meal of a chopped wedge salad and gulf snapper and everyone had time to visit and chat while enjoying their dinner. It was then time for toasts, and they were in for some good stories and heartfelt emotions. Not only did the father of the bride give toasts to the happy couple, but also close friends, some from childhood, and laughter filled the tent for sure!

When dinner and toasts were wrapping up, the couple was able to sneak off for beyond gorgeous golden hour photos. But they couldn’t start until a high five with their officiant! Once again the estate had endless beautiful backdrops, and they are some of our favorites of the entire day.

After an evening watching the sun set on their beautiful tent as they enjoyed dinner and toasts, it was time to move the party over to the chapel. Set for drinks and dancing, they kicked off the last part of the wedding with their first dance and dances with their parents and then opened up the dance floor for A LOT of fun. To keep people fully energized, after an hour or so of dancing, they cut their cake and served it along with additional desserts to give their guests the sugar rush needed for hours of dancing.

They might have been a smaller crowd, but they made up for it with their personalities. Love and Happiness band turned the chapel into an intimate dance party and they did not disappoint. With fun glow accessories, an open bar, and killer music, even the moms got in on the fun.