Charlotte and Neil first met at a birthday party – where they bonded over not knowing the birthday girl! While their attraction was instant, it took a bit of persistence from Neil before they went on their first date. But like every good love story, they never looked back after that first date.
Neil’s father is a Scottish immigrant who obtained U.S. citizenship five years ago. Accordingly, it was important to the couple that their Austin Country Club wedding honor Neil’s cultural heritage. The celebratory day planned by Lauren Weeks of Hawthorne & Poppy Events blended American and Scottish wedding traditions beautifully. It was my honor to photograph it!
Ceremony at Westlake Hills Presbyterian Church
Charlotte and Neil’s Westlake Hills Presbyterian Church wedding ceremony followed a first look and an emotional private vow exchange at their reception venue, Austin Country Club. Simple, timeless decor enhanced the space, including a lush altar meadow that featured ivory florals accented with pops of blue.
A bagpiper wearing a tartan kilt played as guests entered the church. However, that wasn’t the only nod to Neil’s cultural heritage! The ceremony concluded with the “pinning of the tartan,” a Scottish wedding tradition. Neil pinned a tartan sash in his clan’s colors onto Charlotte to signify her welcome into his family. Then, after sharing their first kiss as husband and wife, the happy couple processed down the aisle to the sound of the “Loch Lomond Chorus,” a Scottish folk tune.
Cocktail Hour and Reception at Austin Country Club
Charlotte and Neil joined their guests for cocktail hour at Austin Country Club, where a beautiful luggage tag escort card display inspired by the couple’s love of travel greeted them. With signature cocktails in hand, guests could enjoy the gorgeous spring weather on the patio or throw darts in the adjoining groom’s bar—where they could also order a Scottish beer.
A ballroom reception followed, featuring a jaw-droppingly elegant design. Textured white linens and ivory florals laid the foundation for the timeless tablescapes, while navy blue napkins and goblets created dimension. In addition, Wild Bunches Floral repurposed the floral meadow from the couple’s ceremony in front of the stage, with large trees flanking either side. The finished look produced enough ‘wow’ factor to elevate the entire space!
The celebratory mood grew as the evening progressed, and guests flocked to the dance floor. Neil changed into a tartan kilt and looked every inch the Scottish groom! The couple partied with their guests for hours, spurred on by the energy of the live band, before sharing a private last dance and making their grand exit. Are you planning an Austin Country Club wedding or an affair at one of the city’s other spectacular venues? I would love to connect with you to discuss my personalized wedding photography packages!
Vendors:
Photography: Julie Wilhite
Venue: Austin Country Club
Planning and Design: Hawthorne & Poppy Events
Hair and Makeup: Adore Makeup Boutique + Salon
Floral Design: Wild Bunches Floral
Music: Silver Thistle; Terra Vista Strings; Uptown Drive
Dance Floor: Mike’s Dance Floor Rentals
Draping: Unique Design & Events
Rentals: Whim Hospitality; Loot Rentals
Cake: Sweet Treets Bakery
Transportation: Elegant Ride; Around Austin
Videography: Moonlit Weddings