Weddings are one of the rare occasions in life when you can gather everyone you love in one place. For Katie and Frank, that meant creating a wedding weekend that wasn’t just about one day, but an entire experience. One that honored their journey, their families, and the friendships they’ve built over the years. And as a wedding photographer, capturing these full weekend celebrations is something I absolutely love. It allows couples to truly immerse themselves in the moment, enjoying every interaction, every heartfelt toast, and every laugh shared with the people who mean the most.
They found the perfect setting at The Holdsworth Center on Lake Austin—a venue that felt like home, but on a grander scale. “If we could have everyone over for a full weekend lakeside in our own backyard, we would. But alas, we couldn’t accommodate that,” Katie shared. “The Holdsworth Center feels like the next best thing. We love the location, the design, and the art. It feels like hosting at a big, beautiful home.”
With on-site accommodations and spaces designed for gathering, the entire weekend was effortlessly woven together, allowing guests to connect, relax, and celebrate without ever leaving the property.
A Complete Wedding Weekend in Austin
Kristin Ashley Events worked with the couple to create a complete weekend of activities focused on the guest experience. The festivities kicked off with an unforgettable welcome dinner at Ski Shores, but not before guests arrived in the best way possible – via a sunset riverboat cruise. Floating along Lake Austin with cocktails in hand, the guests soaked in the warm evening light before stepping off for a casual, joy-filled dinner. It was the perfect way to set the tone for the weekend: relaxed, full of love, and designed to bring their people together.
On the wedding day, guests spent the morning making the most of the venue. Grabbing breakfast at Charlie’s Place, playing pool, and gathering around the lakeside fireplace. The Holdsworth Center is designed for conversation and connection, with charming outdoor patios and cozy gathering spots that make it feel like an intimate retreat rather than just a wedding venue.
An Elegant Lakeside Ceremony
The ceremony itself took place on the dock of The Holdsworth Center, overlooking the peaceful waters of Lake Austin. With a backdrop of trees and water, Katie and Frank exchanged vows surrounded by the people who have shaped their journey. It was heartfelt, personal, and brimming with love, exactly how they envisioned it.
The Pavilion Ballroom reception showcased understated elegance at its finest. Café lights and soft draping transformed the grand space into a warm, intimate setting, while crisp white linens and rich wooden accents created a naturally inviting atmosphere. Rattan chargers, flickering candlelight, and cascading greenery enhanced each table, drawing guests into the experience. Lush florals from Gypsy Floral in shades of white and cream added a timeless touch of romance, completing the stunning design.
One of the most unique and thoughtful details? Each table had its own wedding cake. Rather than a single cake-cutting moment, guests were treated to their own personal cakes, making the experience interactive and indulgent.
And then, the party started. The Manhattan Band had the dance floor packed all night, with guests dancing, laughing, and celebrating the start of this new chapter for Katie and Frank.
A Weekend to Remember Holdsworth Center Campus on Lake Austin
This was more than a wedding! It was a full weekend designed to bring two families together, to honor deep friendships, and to celebrate in a way that felt completely, joyfully them. Katie and Frank curated an experience that felt like home, filled with thoughtful details and unforgettable moments.
As a wedding photographer, weekends like this remind me why I love what I do. Capturing a couple’s story isn’t just about the ceremony or the first dance—it’s about the weekend-long laughter, the hugs, the spontaneous dance-offs, and the quiet in-between moments that make the experience whole. These are the memories that will be cherished for generations, and being a part of that is a true honor.
If you’re planning a Holdsworth Center wedding or dreaming of a full wedding weekend that allows you to truly soak in the joy of this milestone, I’d love to help you capture it. Because when you have the chance to gather all the people you love in one place, you should make the most of every moment.
Vendors:
Photography: Julie Wilhite Photography
Planning: Kristin Ashley Events
Rehearsal Dinner: Ski Shores Cafe
Wedding Venue: Holdsworth Center
Florist: Gypsy Floral
Band: Manhattan Band
Draping: Unique Event Decor
Rentals: Premiere Rentals, Ilios Lighting, Loot Rentals, Nuage Rentals
Transportation: CTA Transportation
Riverboat: Lake Austin Party Boat
Hair & Makeup: Frankchiska Bryant
Guitarist: Erik Rivas
Cocktail Hour Music: Finn Dickens
Cakes: Swedish Hill
Stationery: Pink Champagne Designs
