From the beginning, family and simply celebrating their favorite humans was really important to Bryn & Joshua. Which meant their intimate garden wedding at The Hummingbird House in Austin was super relaxed, celebrating their sweet love in a way that was wholly and truly their own. And it was an absolute honor to be part of.
Bryn and Joshua are not just partners in life but also in service, as both of them are proudly serving in the military. They actually eloped last July but wanted to share their joy with loved ones in an intimate garden gathering in Austin. From the moment I met them, I could see how deeply they cared about each other, their family and friends, and their wedding day was a true reflection of that love.
The Hummingbird House in Austin is like stepping into a real life secret garden hidden in the city. Nestled in South Austin, this venue offers a lush tropical garden setting that’s perfect for intimate garden weddings with a hint of Austin flair – making it the perfect spot for all of Bryn and Joshua’s nontraditional wedding ideas.
From the garden ceremony site with an English gazebo to the reception hall with its glass panel walls, white silk draping and chandeliers, it created a dreamy space for them to enjoy a laid back wedding day with their loved ones.
The day started with some sweet getting ready moments in Hummingbird House’s spacious suites. Bryn and her bridesmaids enjoyed the VIP Party Suite, which was filled with laughter, excitement, and a few happy tears. Meanwhile, Joshua and his groomsmen were having a blast in the Clubroom Suite, complete with a foosball table and mini fridge – the perfect spot for the guys to relax and enjoy some pre-wedding fun.
Bryn and Joshua decided to have their first look in the gardens, and it felt like it was straight out of a romantic movie. Since the whole day was rooted in being present together, it was important for them to share this private, intimate moment. And what better spot than your own secret garden? Amidst the lush greenery and vibrant blooms, this first look was just the beginning.
Before the ceremony started, they gathered with their families in the Hummingbird House gardens. Bryn shared a touching moment with her dad, giving him a sweet photo of his mom (her grandmother) that brought tears to both their eyes. It was these little moments surrounded by their families that made their intimate day so special and personal.
Their outdoor ceremony took place under the jasmine-covered gazebo in the gardens at Hummingbird House Austin. One nontraditional wedding idea that was important to Bryn was being walked down the aisle by both her parents. It was such a meaningful gesture to have both her parents by her side.
Since celebrating surrounded by their people was so important to them, I made sure to capture all the little moments of them AND their guests during the ceremony.
In keeping with her garden party aesthetic, Bryn had her bridesmaids choose their dress colors from the bouquets. They popped beautifully amidst all the greenery and I am forever OBSESSED.
After some more family portraits and while guests were enjoying cocktail hour, I stole Bryn and Joshua away for some intimate couples portraits. The gardens at Hummingbird House Austin provided the perfect backdrop and were so fun for us to wander while they took a moment to relax and simply soak in being married.
From the get-go, Bryn and Joshua were very nontraditional and embraced what meant the most to them, wholeheartedly.
I love that they didn’t have a wedding cake but simply enjoyed their beautifully catered dinner. Joshua’s brother sang a native song during toasts. Instead of first dances, they just enjoyed simply dancing with ALL their people.
I love they only did what truly mattered to them.I love that they honored their story and their truth. To me, that is true candidness – the key ingredient to creating natural photos effortlessly. You never have to worry about your wedding looking like anyone else’s if you’re being true to you.
Seeing three generations dance together – Bryn, her mom, and her grandma – was incredibly emotional and always reminds me how short life is, and how important it is to cherish these times with our loved ones while they’re here. ♡
After dancing their hearts out, guests showered Bryn and Joshua with bubbles as they ended their celebration at The Hummingbird House. The smiles, laughter and bubbles created the perfect magical ending to their beautiful day – it was impossible not to be swept up in every joyful second.
I’m an Austin wedding photographer for the laid back lovers and intentional ones. I travel the Hill Country (& beyond) for love– and I can’t wait to hear all about yours. Let’s get candid here!
♡ With joy, Kari
Wedding locations close to my heart
Fredericksburg, TX // Austin, TX // Dripping Springs, TX
But I’ll always meet you wherever your love feels most at home.