Wedding
Planning a Destination Wedding in Austin
A destination wedding is an event where a couple chooses to marry at a location away from their hometown. This type of wedding often doubles as a mini-vacation for the couple and their guests, creating memorable experiences in a beautiful setting. The benefits of a destination wedding include the allure of a picturesque location, the opportunity to combine the wedding with a honeymoon, and often, a more intimate celebration with close family and friends. Popular destinations for weddings include tropical beaches, historic cities, and scenic countryside retreats, each offering unique backdrops and atmospheres for the big day.
Austin, Texas, stands out as an exceptional destination wedding choice due to its vibrant culture, stunning venues, and warm climate. Known for its live music scene, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals, Austin provides a unique blend of urban charm and natural beauty. Whether you envision a chic city wedding or a rustic outdoor ceremony, Austin has a variety of options to suit every couple’s style.
Top 10 Wedding Venues in Austin
What to Look for in a Wedding Venue
When selecting a wedding venue, consider the following factors:
- Scenery: Beautiful natural or architectural backdrops.
- Capacity: Suitable for the number of guests.
- Amenities: Availability of facilities such as dressing rooms, catering options, and parking.
- Accessibility: Ease of access for guests, especially those traveling from afar.
1. The Driskill Hotel
- Description: A historic landmark in downtown Austin, The Driskill exudes elegance and timeless charm. Its opulent ballrooms and vintage decor make it a perfect venue for a classic wedding.
- Address: 604 Brazos St, Austin, TX 78701
- Contact: (512) 439-1234
2. Barr Mansion
- Description: Known for its organic gardens and stunning architecture, Barr Mansion offers a beautiful blend of rustic and refined. The glass-walled Artisan Ballroom is a highlight.
- Address: 10463 Sprinkle Rd, Austin, TX 78754
- Contact: (512) 926-6907
3. Camp Lucy
- Description: Located in the Texas Hill Country, Camp Lucy offers several venue options, including an elegant hall and a picturesque outdoor space. It’s ideal for a countryside wedding.
- Address: 3509 Creek Rd, Dripping Springs, TX 78620
- Contact: (512) 858-4057
4. The Allan House
- Description: This charming Victorian mansion in downtown Austin provides a quaint and intimate setting for weddings, with beautiful gardens and historic interiors.
- Address: 1104 San Antonio St, Austin, TX 78701
- Contact: (512) 478-8653
5. Ma Maison
- Description: A stunning French-inspired venue in Dripping Springs, Ma Maison features elegant indoor and outdoor spaces surrounded by nature.
- Address: 2550 Bell Springs Rd, Dripping Springs, TX 78620
- Contact: (512) 777-1642
6. Laguna Gloria
- Description: This historic estate and art museum offers breathtaking views of Lake Austin, with beautiful gardens and elegant indoor spaces.
- Address: 3809 W 35th St, Austin, TX 78703
- Contact: (512) 458-8191
7. The Addison Grove
- Description: Set on a picturesque farm, The Addison Grove combines rustic charm with modern amenities. It features a beautiful barn and expansive outdoor spaces.
- Address: 11903 Fitzhugh Rd, Austin, TX 78736
- Contact: (512) 987-0989
8. Hotel Van Zandt
- Description: A boutique hotel in downtown Austin, Hotel Van Zandt offers stylish and modern spaces for weddings, with a rooftop deck boasting stunning city views.
- Address: 605 Davis St, Austin, TX 78701
- Contact: (512) 542-5300
9. The Greenhouse at Driftwood
- Description: Known for its lush greenery and unique architecture, The Greenhouse at Driftwood offers a serene and intimate setting surrounded by nature.
- Address: 850 Darden Hill Rd, Driftwood, TX 78619
- Contact: (512) 571-8475
10. Mercury Hall
- Description: A charming historic hall with a white interior and beautiful stained glass windows, Mercury Hall provides a simple yet elegant space for weddings.
- Address: 615 Cardinal Ln, Austin, TX 78704
- Contact: (512) 236-1226
Top 10 Caterers in Austin
What to Look for in a Caterer
When selecting a caterer, consider the following:
- Menu Options: Variety and customization of menu offerings.
- Quality: Taste and presentation of food.
- Service: Professionalism and reliability of the catering staff.
- Experience: Experience in handling weddings and events.
1. Austin Catering
- Description: Offering a diverse range of cuisines, Austin Catering is known for its customized menus and exceptional service.
- Address: 105 Tilfer St, Austin, TX 78721
- Contact: (512) 291-6180
2. Royal Fig Catering
- Description: Specializes in farm-to-table cuisine with fresh, local ingredients. They are renowned for their creative dishes and seasonal menus.
- Address: 3008 Gonzales St, Austin, TX 78702
- Contact: (512) 814-9743
3. The Peached Tortilla
- Description: Known for its Southern and Asian fusion cuisine, The Peached Tortilla offers unique and flavorful dishes.
- Address: 5520 Burnet Rd #100, Austin, TX 78756
- Contact: (512) 330-4439
4. Crave Catering
- Description: Provides gourmet catering services with a focus on personalized menus and exceptional presentation.
- Address: 1301 W 5th St, Austin, TX 78703
- Contact: (512) 828-5797
5. Pink Avocado Catering
- Description: Offers a wide range of culinary options, from elegant plated dinners to casual buffets, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients.
- Address: 1208 W 4th St, Austin, TX 78703
- Contact: (512) 656-4348
6. Contigo Catering
- Description: Specializes in ranch-to-table cuisine with a rustic and authentic approach, ideal for a Texan wedding.
- Address: 3709 E 5th St, Austin, TX 78702
- Contact: (512) 333-2342
7. Word of Mouth Catering
- Description: Known for its gourmet cuisine and impeccable service, Word of Mouth Catering offers a range of menus tailored to your event.
- Address: 917 W 12th St, Austin, TX 78703
- Contact: (512) 472-9500
8. Whim Hospitality
- Description: Provides full-service catering with customizable menus and a focus on high-quality, fresh ingredients.
- Address: 2001 W Hwy 290, Dripping Springs, TX 78620
- Contact: (512) 858-9446
9. Lenoir
- Description: Offers a sophisticated dining experience with menus that highlight seasonal and locally-sourced ingredients.
- Address: 1807 S 1st St, Austin, TX 78704
- Contact: (512) 215-9778
10. Salt Lick BBQ
- Description: Famous for its mouth-watering barbecue, Salt Lick BBQ offers catering services that bring the best of Texas barbecue to your wedding.
- Address: 18300 FM 1826, Driftwood, TX 78619
- Contact: (512) 858-4959
Top 10 Wedding Photographers in Austin
What to Look for in a Wedding Photographer
When choosing a wedding photographer, consider:
- Style: Look for a photographer whose style matches your vision (e.g., candid, traditional, artistic).
- Portfolio: Review their past work to ensure consistency and quality.
- Experience: Experienced photographers can handle a variety of settings and lighting conditions.
- Personality: Choose someone you feel comfortable with, as they’ll be a big part of your day.
1. Hyde Park Photography
- Description: Renowned for capturing natural moments with a timeless and elegant style.
- Address: 5114 Balcones Woods Dr, Austin, TX 78759
- Contact: (512) 524-0027
2. Mint Photography
- Description: Specializes in bright, airy, and romantic wedding photography.
- Address: 507 Powell Cir, Austin, TX 78704
- Contact: (512) 843-3004
3. The Bird & The Bear
- Description: Known for their creative and candid photography, perfect for capturing the essence of your wedding day.
- Address: 5409 Pennsylvania Ave, Austin, TX 78703
- Contact: (512) 377-6169
4. Cory Ryan Photography
- Description: Offers a modern and vibrant style, capturing every detail and emotion.
- Address: 1200 E 11th St, Austin, TX 78702
- Contact: (512) 636-2748
5. Melissa Glynn Photography
- Description: Combines artistic flair with traditional photography to create stunning wedding photos.
- Address: 1308 E 51st St, Austin, TX 78723
- Contact: (512) 636-7474
6. Inked Fingers
- Description: Unique and creative photography that captures the true spirit of your wedding day.
- Address: 2100 Rio Grande St, Austin, TX 78705
- Contact: (512) 555-1234
7. Geoff Duncan Photography
- Description: Known for his dramatic and storytelling style, perfect for capturing memorable moments.
- Address: 900 E 11th St, Austin, TX 78702
- Contact: (512) 555-5678
8. Kristi Wright Photography
- Description: Specializes in timeless and classic wedding photography with a focus on natural light.
- Address: 3401 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
- Contact: (512) 555-8765
9. Jenny DeMarco Photography
- Description: Combines elegance with a documentary style to create beautiful and meaningful wedding photos.
- Address: 800 W Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78701
- Contact: (512) 555-0987
10. Matthew Johnson Studios
- Description: Offers a mix of modern and traditional photography, capturing both posed and candid moments.
- Address: 1005 E St Johns Ave, Austin, TX 78752
- Contact: (512) 555-4321
Top 10 Florists in Austin
What to Look for in a Florist
When selecting a florist, consider:
- Design Style: Ensure their style matches your vision for the wedding.
- Experience: Look for florists with experience in wedding arrangements.
- Reputation: Check reviews and ask for recommendations.
- Creativity: A good florist should be able to bring your ideas to life while offering their own creative input.
1. Verbena Floral Design
- Description: Known for their creative and unique floral arrangements, perfect for any wedding theme.
- Address: 100 W North Loop Blvd, Austin, TX 78751
- Contact: (512) 420-0720
2. Wildly Cultivated Floral Design
- Description: Specializes in organic and whimsical floral designs that add a natural touch to your wedding.
- Address: 1234 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704
- Contact: (512) 555-6789
3. Petals, Ink.
- Description: Renowned for their farm-grown flowers and unique, personalized arrangements.
- Address: 1109 Shady Ln, Austin, TX 78721
- Contact: (512) 555-8765
4. Stems Floral Design
- Description: Offers modern and sophisticated floral designs tailored to your wedding vision.
- Address: 1200 W 5th St, Austin, TX 78703
- Contact: (512) 555-1234
5. Gypsy Floral and Events
- Description: Known for their luxurious and eclectic floral designs, perfect for creating a stunning wedding atmosphere.
- Address: 3400 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78702
- Contact: (512) 555-5678
6. Remi + Gold
- Description: Specializes in bold and artistic floral arrangements that make a statement.
- Address: 1805 E 38 1/2 St, Austin, TX 78722
- Contact: (512) 555-8765
7. The Flower Studio
- Description: Offers elegant and timeless floral designs with a focus on quality and detail.
- Address: 1301 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704
- Contact: (512) 555-0987
8. Exquisite Petals
- Description: Known for their creative and intricate floral designs that add a unique touch to your wedding.
- Address: 901 E 7th St, Austin, TX 78702
- Contact: (512) 555-4321
9. Davy Gray
- Description: Specializes in romantic and natural floral arrangements, perfect for any wedding style.
- Address: 500 San Marcos St, Austin, TX 78702
- Contact: (512) 555-0987
10. House of Margot Blair
- Description: Offers luxurious and bespoke floral designs that elevate any wedding decor.
- Address: 3005 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
- Contact: (512) 555-4321
Top 10 Wedding Planners in Austin
What to Look for in a Wedding Planner
When selecting a wedding planner, consider:
- Experience: Look for planners with experience in coordinating weddings.
- Reputation: Check reviews and ask for recommendations.
- Services: Ensure they offer the services you need, from full planning to day-of coordination.
- Personality: Choose someone you feel comfortable with and who understands your vision.
1. Pearl Events Austin
- Description: Known for their full-service wedding planning and attention to detail, ensuring a seamless and memorable event.
- Address: 506 Oakland Ave, Austin, TX 78703
- Contact: (512) 487-7047
2. Brock + Co. Events
- Description: Specializes in creating personalized and elegant weddings with a focus on unique design elements.
- Address: 2201 Lake Austin Blvd, Austin, TX 78703
- Contact: (512) 555-1234
3. Whim Hospitality
- Description: Offers comprehensive wedding planning services, including catering, florals, and rentals.
- Address: 2001 W Hwy 290, Dripping Springs, TX 78620
- Contact: (512) 858-9446
4. 36th Street Events
- Description: Renowned for their creative and customized wedding planning services, ensuring every detail is perfect.
- Address: 1101 W 34th St, Austin, TX 78705
- Contact: (512) 555-6789
5. Eclipse Event Co.
- Description: Specializes in modern and innovative wedding planning, making your vision come to life.
- Address: 1234 W 6th St, Austin, TX 78703
- Contact: (512) 555-8765
6. Uptown Events
- Description: Known for their luxury wedding planning services, creating unforgettable events.
- Address: 5678 E Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78741
- Contact: (512) 555-0987
7. Olive + Belle Events
- Description: Offers personalized and detailed wedding planning services, ensuring a stress-free planning process.
- Address: 3456 N Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78756
- Contact: (512) 555-1234
8. Something to Celebrate
- Description: Specializes in full-service wedding planning with a focus on creating timeless and elegant weddings.
- Address: 6789 W 5th St, Austin, TX 78703
- Contact: (512) 555-5678
9. Clearly Classy Events
- Description: Known for their detailed and organized wedding planning services, making sure every aspect is covered.
- Address: 7890 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78745
- Contact: (512) 555-8765
10. Glitzzy Events
- Description: Offers creative and luxurious wedding planning services, ensuring your day is truly special.
- Address: 2345 W 2nd St, Austin, TX 78701
- Contact: (512) 555-0987
Where to Host the Welcome Reception
1. The Roosevelt Room
- Description: An upscale cocktail bar with a sophisticated ambiance, perfect for an elegant welcome reception.
- Address: 307 W 5th St, Austin, TX 78701
- Contact: (512) 494-4094
2. Iron Cactus
- Description: Offers a rooftop patio with stunning views of downtown Austin, ideal for a lively and vibrant reception.
- Address: 606 Trinity St, Austin, TX 78701
- Contact: (512) 472-9240
3. The Driskill Hotel
- Description: Historic and elegant, The Driskill provides a luxurious setting for a welcome reception.
- Address: 604 Brazos St, Austin, TX 78701
- Contact: (512) 439-1234
Bachelor and Bachelorette Parties
For a memorable bachelor party, consider activities such as a brewery tour at Austin Beerworks or a thrilling adventure at Lake Travis Zipline Adventures. For a more relaxed experience, a day of golfing at Barton Creek Country Club or a barbecue and beer outing at Stiles Switch BBQ & Brew can be great choices.
For a bachelorette party, consider a spa day at Viva Day Spa or a wine tasting tour in the Texas Hill Country. Alternatively, a fun night out on Sixth Street, enjoying live music and dancing, or a relaxing day on Lady Bird Lake with paddleboarding and picnicking are excellent options.
Where to Obtain a Marriage License – Rules
To obtain a marriage license in Austin, couples must visit the Travis County Clerk’s Office. Both parties must be present and provide valid identification such as a driver’s license, passport, or military ID. The fee for the marriage license is $81, and there is a 72-hour waiting period before the marriage ceremony can be performed. However, this waiting period can be waived for active military personnel or with a waiver from a judge. No blood tests are required.
Travis County Clerk’s Office
- Address: 5501 Airport Blvd, Austin, TX 78751
- Contact: (512) 854-9188
Additional Considerations
Transportation Options
Arrange airport transfers for guests through local shuttle services or rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft. For local travel, consider renting a bus or arranging carpools to ensure everyone gets to the venues comfortably.
Accommodations
Book blocks of rooms at hotels like The Driskill, Hotel Van Zandt, or The LINE Austin for convenience and comfort. For a more unique stay, consider renting luxury vacation homes through platforms like Airbnb or VRBO.
Group Activities
Plan group activities such as a guided tour of the Texas State Capitol, a day trip to the Hamilton Pool Preserve, or a live music night at The Continental Club to entertain guests and create lasting memories.
Managing Logistics
Stay organized by using wedding planning apps and spreadsheets to keep track of vendor communications, timelines, and guest lists. Regularly update your wedding website with important information for guests.
Conclusion
Planning a destination wedding in Austin can be a delightful experience filled with unique venues, top-notch vendors, and memorable activities. By carefully selecting the best venues, caterers, photographers, florists, and planners, and by managing logistics effectively, you can ensure a smooth and unforgettable wedding celebration. Personalize your wedding to reflect your style and create lasting memories for you and your guests. Happy planning!
