Texas Hillcountry

At Hillcountry with Jake + Abbie

Meet Abbie & Jake. This couple is so sweet, from the first time we talked, to the hour turned two hour long Starbucks meetup, I knew they were a great pair! As they told me their love story, I couldn't help but feel as though we were old friends or family and they were just so excited to fill me in on the details of what brought them together. Their love for one another is so obvious when you are around them and if I could describe their love in two words, from what I have seen so far, I would say JOYFUL & GENUINE. Abbie & Jake just have a genuine air about them that is full of joy, which is hard to describe unless you are blessed to get to know these two in person. They are both beginning their nursing careers and as they explained the details about their future plans, it made me automatically want to cheer them on in a best friend or family kind of way. They are hard working, caring, goal oriented and also, their relationship is Christ centered. These are my kind of people. They genuinely love each other and they love others as well. I'm telling you, the cream of the crop type of couple!

Q: Abbie, how did you meet Jake ?

Jake and I met at a college football game that took place only two weeks into my freshman year of college. So to say I didn't know school without Jake would be perfectly correct. Jake so lovingly encouraged one of my friends to invite me to a party he was hosting at his house. I was reluctant at first because I had just come home from a date (haha!) but I obliged and made my way to the party. (Side note: If you don't know me, I go to bed really early most days.. this will show its necessity in a few lines). At the party, he offered me coffee and we began to chat. We hit it off immediately and talked the entire night about everything under the sun as if no one else at the party was even there. At 5 am, we got donuts and we made plans to hang out again after a couple hours of sleep. Fast forward a couple of days, weeks, who knows (; and he kissed me to my favorite song playing in the credits of my favorite movie. Now, we are happily engaged, have a sweet pup, and are both starting our careers as nurses.

Q: Abbie, how did Jake Propose?

"Jake had told me a couple of days before that he wanted to have date night on Friday (which is pretty typical in our relationship) so I didn't really think much of it. Jake and I were both in nursing school at the time and he was going through the toughest semester of the program at the time. He had 2 clinical rotations, a couple of assignments and an exam or something along those lines going on the same week. Needless to say I was not expecting a ring! We had discussed engagement and marriage but I was convinced that he would probably decide to wait until winter break or after. He texted me that he had gotten out of his clinical early ( he actually explained his plan and asked his professors if he could leave early and have an extension on his assignments!) and that he was ready to go to dinner. ( side note: the restaurant that we had chosen to eat at is my favorite! Its very casual though.) He asked me what I was wearing to dinner and my response was athletic shorts. (Ha! Thank you to my roommate, cousin and MOH for convincing me to throw on a casual dress). He picked me up, looking quite handsome and we went to dinner. Throughout the meal, Jake was acting kind of weird but I just went along with it. After we get done eating, we get back in the car and he asks me to put on a blindfold! (I thought nothing of this at the time, looking back it should have been a clue (; ) and we went for a short drive to the place we frequently have dates and have gone to throughout the entirety of our relationship - a cliff overlooking the lake. We got out of the car and as he was leading me to the edge of the water and I heard camera clicks. That's when I knew! He removed my blindfold and asked me to marry him with the sweetest words. I bawled and shook my head yes. He put the ring on my finger and looks up at me and says "you have to actually say yes!" It seemed so perfect that it felt like a dream. Afterward we celebrated with all of our friends and it was a blast. best day ever."

When we first met up in person at Starbucks as we were sipping our drinks, Jake explained that he fell in love with Abbie even more when he first took her to his parent's house. He explained the drive was pretty long and a bit out of the way, but Abbie was up for the adventure & when they arrived, Jake explained the way Abbie interacted with his family and specifically with his little sister just felt like it was meant to be. They both didn't know at the time, but God had a way of bringing these two together in a way that only happens by design. It sure was meant to be and Abbie will soon be a part of the family, just where she belongs. It makes me so happy to follow these two lovebirds during their Engagement! They explained they really wanted to have an 'at-home' photo session at their soon-to-be new apartment in Temple, which is where they will be working & living & I'm on board for the adventure too. So, stay tuned for their next indoor session in the next few months.

Okay, I almost forgot to mention how amazing their sweet 4 year old pup, Josie was on our session! This dog was so full of energy and so extremely happy to be in the park. She got a bit too excited at one point and actually decided to take a swim. I think she immediately regretted that decision based on how scared she looked, but Jake came to the rescue and helped Josie climb out of the water. We all began laughing as Josie began shaking to get the water off of her while simultaneously spraying each of us with the river water. We had a great time on our session & I cannot wait for our next session together & especially for the big day!

Jake & Abbie, 

   I had such a great time together on our session & I am sincerely looking forward to being able to have y'alls at-home session soon! Don't forget to de-stress during all the crazy wedding planning. Make take time for each other during this special chapter of your lives together just before you tie the knot. I know planning a wedding can seem overwhelming at times, but don't forget to laugh at the small things and enjoy each moment you have together just like y'all did on our session together. Y'all are going to make an amazing legacy of love for years to come, so be patient with one another and remember what an amazing thing only you have between the two of you! I will try not to tear up during your ceremony, but I can't promise anything!

Sincerely, 

Lyndsay

“And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.”

— Colossians 3:14

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

— Jeremiah 29:11

Texas Bluebonnet

At McKinney Falls Spring with Jamie + Leah

There is something so special about the Texas Hill Country when the wildflowers cover the ground for as far as the eye can see. Yellows, greens and blues cover the land and create the perfect romantic setting for an Engagement Session. Wildflowers fill the air with a sweet aroma and the bluebonnets that grow in large fields brings a smile to everyone's face. It is with great joy I introduce this sweet couple on the blog today - meet Leah & Jaime! These two were such a pleasure to work with and as we walked among the flowers, I loved hearing more about their particular love story. I'd love to share their story with all of you. 

Q: Where did y'all first meet?

We were introduced by a mutual friend, who thought two teachers would really hit it off, and she was right! She told me about this guy she knew who was a teacher, and thought I would really like him. At the same time she talked to him about me, and asked if she could give me his number if I wanted it. Not one who normally does that, but I ended up getting the courage to ask for his number. We texted back and forth for a week and found each other on Facebook before we had our first date. He was living in San Marcos at the time and in his second year of teaching, and I was living in Temple and in my first year of teaching. He came to pick me up, we were both wearing blue plaid shirts, and we went to all of our favorite places in Austin. That was the day I had Torchy's Tacos for the first time (his favorite place), and it's been our go-to spot ever since. Every year for our anniversary we recreate our first date by going back to all of the same places in Austin, wearing our matching blue plaid shirts. We continued to see each other on the weekends, alternating back and forth between Temple and San Marcos, until I moved to North Austin that summer for another teaching job. After about two years of dating and seeing each other mostly on the weekends, we finally got our first apartment together in South Austin. A little over a year later, we now own a home together in Kyle, and have a cat named Fionna. We're both still teaching, he teaches Pre-K in San Marcos while I commute to Georgetown where I run a tutoring center. Our wedding is set for June 2019 in downtown Austin.

Q: Leah, tell me about the story of how Jaime proposed:

Jaime ran a half marathon this morning in San Marcos at the Tanger Outlets. Even though I was feeling poorly, he lured me there under false pretenses with the proposal of having brunch after receiving his award (he got second place in his age group). Instead, I received a proposal of a different kind (but also brunch). To be honest, I don't really remember what happened, I kinda blacked out. But of course, I managed to squeak out a yes. There were cheers, pictures taken, and recognition from the whole crowd, which made me feel really special. We also got some freebies from the MC who was hosting the event. Just one week shy of our 4 year anniversary, it was surreal and completely unexpected. I am still in shock. Apparently he planned this a few days ago. The ring needs to be resized, so sadly it's goodbye for now, but I'm sure I'll feel it all over again once I get it back. My heart is full. Te amo mucho, mi amore.

Leah & Jaime, 

  It was such a blessing being able to meet y'all and I had a great time walking through the gorgeous Texas wildflowers with you. I hope you can look back at our time together and remember what a fun time you had. I hope even more so that you cherish your photos for generations to come as they capture this beautiful time in your lives together as an engaged couple. Remember, when wedding planning becomes difficult, take a walk outside together to clear your head and just walk together in the sun and remember all the reasons you have decided on each other to go down this road of life with. Best wishes in your future endeavors together!

With Love,

Lyndsay 

Colorful Prospects

At Prospect House in Dripping Springs, TX with Brittney + Mitch

Have you ever thought about what it would be like to have a really colorful and fun wedding, but wasn't sure if it was a good idea? Let me go ahead and show you why it is a REALLY REALLY good idea & to push all doubts to the side! I am overly excited to share this wedding with you today on the blog! This wedding alone has inspired me to be more open to having color throughout my home and in my life. I absolutely LOVED the way I felt when I walked in to the Prospect House and saw all the colorful florals the amazing Lady D from Black Petal Floral Design had used to transform the space. Can I just say right now that the energy each bright color brings to an event is magnetic & I'm convinced everyone felt energized just looking at the vibrantly decorated reception area. Oh, and also, the chic lounge by LOOT Rental was an absolute hit as well, especially during cocktail hour. 

Side note: The following paragraphs explains the back story regarding this wedding. I feel as though sharing this extra story was too important in my life and journey to not explain. It has been said that we are all connected by only six degrees of separation, which I believe is designed by our Creator to make us feel connected to an encouraging group of believers I like to call "my people".

This wedding really means a lot to me for multiple reasons. Let me explain. Growing up, I went to a small private school in San Antonio that was K-12th grade called San Antonio Christian School - everyone just calls it S.A.C.S. I attended school there from 5th grade all the way through high school, where I graduated back in 2008 (wow, typing that makes me feel so old). Anyways, I went on to study and graduate with my Photography Degree at Texas State University. It's been five years now since then and I've learned several things throughout the years of having my business. Shortly after graduating, I quickly realized that while having my Photography degree was a really great asset, I needed a bit more experience.

I began taking courses online from my idol & mentor photographer couple, Amy & Jordan. They are based in Arizona and have been featured in People Magazine, The Huffington Post and also recognized by Rangefinder as being one of the Top Ten Educators in the wedding photography field. Trust me, they offer photography nerd super food & have helped me learn a lot of what I did not learn in school. My dad always told me "Lyndsay, NEVER stop learning & always seek to better yourself. If you hone in on your craft & spend your efforts mastering your skill, this will be your blessing to others."  Well, that little piece of advice has stuck with my throughout the years & I continue to learn more and more about my craft in an effort to not only better myself, but to also serve my clients well. To love and serve my clients well. This is my business mantra and this is also why I started my business. This is also what keeps me going, day in and day out.

Amy & Jordan explained that at the beginning years of having a photography business, your family & the people closest to you are actually the people who are most cautious when recommending you to others because while they really want you to succeed, they don't know how much you are committed to the goal of creating and maintaining a thriving and established company. Amy & Jordan explained why this makes reasonable sense, especially at the beginning. They also explained, in their experience, as time went on and they photographed more weddings and their work and website and marketing began to expand, their friends and family soon realized how dedicated they were and began proudly recommending them to all their friends and friends of friends.

Throughout the years of owning and running this business, I've learned so much more than anything I could have picked up in college. It takes being thrown in to situations in real life and dealing with different scenarios to improve each aspect of how I run the business. At the end of the day, I always try to make sure I have loved and served my clients well. Life has a funny way of coming full circle and I can't help but smile when I notice situations that make me feel as though I'm right where I need to be.

You see, this couple right here is named Brittney & Mitch and guess what? They also went to the same small private school I went to growing up. Brittney's father is my dad's dentist and guess what? My dad recommended me over a year ago now. After meeting up with Brittney & Mitch at Juiceland to talk details and get to know each other a bit better, I just knew that we were a great fit. I consider this sweet couple "my people".  It makes me so proud to show you this wedding because I feel very blessed to have had the opportunity to serve this amazing couple & everything about this day was filled with joy. 

Brittney & Mitch have a love for one another is very evident when you're around them and their wedding day was a bit more emotional for me than usual. I may or may not have teared up a bit behind my camera when I saw Brittney's father tear up as he walked his daughter down the aisle. It was one of the most genuine moments I've had the privilege of being able to witness, so being able to capture that moment for this sweet couple was very rewarding. As they said their vows to one another, I noticed many happy tears were also rolling down the faces of their closest friends and family. Brittney & Mitch had become one and to witness this was an honor.  

Brittney & Mitch, 

 It was such a blessing being able to capture your big day! I truly hope you look back on your wedding day with nothing but great memories as you start your new life together. I especially appreciate that you both come from the same school I attended growing up. I hope you cherish your photo gallery for generations to come and frame your photos all over your house as a reminder each and every day how much love you share together. Cheers, you two! I look forward to seeing where life takes you both and don't forget y'all are my kind of people, so stay in touch!

With Love,

Lyndsay

“Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.”

— Romans 12:9-13

P.S. I will always remember the best man's speech as he explained how excited Mitch was to graduate from S.A.C.S. so he could "date girls from U.T." & guess what? He ended up falling in love with the most amazing woman-aaaaaand, she was from S.A.C.S.  

Special thanks to all the amazing vendors who made this day possible

Venue: The Prospect House

Coordination: Touch of Whimsy Design & Coordination (Kelsea)

Floral Design: Black Petal Floral Design (Lady D)

Photography: Lyndsay Lyon Photography

Catering: The Root Cellar Catering Co. 

Bakery: Sweet Treets Bakery

Hair: Elena Evans

Makeup: Rachel James

DJ: Complete Weddings (Tristan Tully)

Furniture Rentals: Loot Rentals

Bride's Perfume: Tocca Isabel

Officiant: Scott Payne

Oak Vows

At Lone Oak Barn in Round Rock, TX with Kwes + Heather

This amazing wedding between Heather & Kwes started out giving everyone a bit of a worry with a few drops of water falling down on the ceremony site. However, the rain stopped just in time to get these two down the isle and just in time for them to each say their vows to one another. They say a little rain on your wedding day is actually good luck and by all means, It was a wedding day miracle! Nothing could stop these two from getting married and their ceremony and reception was absolutely a success!

How Heather & Kwes met (in Heather's words):

“We actually met through a mutual friend, one of my Matrons of Honor at the wedding. I was at her twenty first birthday party when I noticed this tall handsome guy walk in. Of course me being shy and not liking to talk to strangers at this point in my life just quietly went about the night, but kinda kept an eye on him. I didn’t think he noticed me or seemed interested and I had to leave early for work the next day so I left and didn’t think much of it. Of course as girls do I told our mutual friend about the handsome stranger a few days later, and her being a good friend, she decided to play matchmaker and set something up without us knowing. About a week later she asks me to help her move out of her apartment and who would happen to show up, the guy from the party. So we got to talking and come to find out the reason he stayed away that night was because I was taking care of a very inebriated friend who was very upset and kept yelling that the same mutual friend wouldn’t make out with her. So he decided to stay away from that hot mess. But once we started talking we just clicked very well, and a few days later he asked me out on our first date!”

— Heather

The Proposal (In Heather's words)

“Our engagement was actually kinda funny and sweet, I feel like he did a really good job, especially with me not being as cooperative as he would of liked! We had been dating for almost four years and he knew that I was getting very anxious, it may of been the obvious hints and pinterest boards that gave it away but who knows. So for my birthday/four year anniversary he wanted to go up to Eagle Nest, New Mexico for a nice vacation. So we left with Kwes’s parents and sisters to stay a week at their family cabin. The first couple of days we all got settled in and all hung out and played a bunch of games and had a little to drink. The second night we were their I had a little bit too much to drink and by the end of the night Kwes wanted to cuddle on the couch, well apparently I was feeling a little ornery and told him I didn’t want to cuddle because I didn’t have a ring, just kidding around of course. Well he didn’t get the joking vibe I got a “really?” look that made more sense the next day. The next day we get up at 5 in the morning to go zip lining through the mountains, which I am terrified of heights and falling, so this was a big one for me. But we actually had a blast! We get back to the cabin and everyone is exhausted, and at this point all I want to do is take a nap. Well Kwes turns to me and says that he wants to go and take a nice family picture since we are all together. A little bit of a backstory here, Kwes hates pictures! Anytime we have to take pictures for anything it’s a small battle, that usually ends up in the what I call the “Chandler Bing” face (from Friends). So knowing that, I was a little perturbed at the fact that right at this moment we had to get dressed up and take pictures, you know right after we pretty much just faced death and flew down the side of a giant mountain on a rope. But after some moaning and groaning, and a few choice words, I decided to go along with it and got ready. So we go out and Kwes decides that he , the man who never wants to take a picture, wants to take it at the highest part of the mountain and right on the ledge. Again afraid of heights I reluctantly agreed. So we start taking the pictures and it’s just me and Kwes in the pictures at this point with his mom taking them and his sister standing right behind her fiddling with something. I started to notice something was going on because we were talking like 2 minutes on just me and Kwes in the same spot and they were all giving each other strange looks, the whole time Kwes’s sister is still fiddling with something behind their moms back. Then, Kwes’s mom decided she wanted a few of me by myself, so Kwes went to stand next to them and I saw his sister hand him something. The next thing I know, Kwes is right next to me down on one knee, asking me to marry him. I was so incredibly happy and excited and just a gigantic ball of emotions that I said yes and without even thinking about it, I grabbed him close. Kwes will say I snatched it (like a Hobbit), the ring from his hands without giving him the chance to put it on my finger first. Come to find out, Kwes had the ring and been planning this beautiful proposal for months! Also, I found out later from his sister who had been fiddling with something behind their mom’s back, was actually put the ring and the box down her shirt to hide it and it had gotten stuck, and that’s why we were taking the same picture over and over again. Besides our wedding day, that day was the best day of my life, I am so grateful that I get to call him my husband and we get to share each and everyday together. I wouldn’t of had it any other way!”

— Heather

Heather & Kwes,

 I am so happy to have had y'all each as my amazing clients & I am so grateful that you chose me to cover your special day! It was such a great time getting to know your love story and to see what truly makes you each so in love with each other. I had such an amazing time with your friends and family-everyone made me feel so welcomed and a part of the celebration. I am truly happy for you two. My wish is that when you look through your photos from your wedding day, you'll always be reminded of how amazing of a day it was. My prayer for you each is that when you get in your first argument (& it will happen), I hope you can both take a look through these photos together and remember all the feelings of love you have for each other and how much fun you can have with one another each day. My wish for you both is that as every day that goes by, you genuinely remember the feelings that were so obvious on your wedding day and make your best effort to show the other person that they are your number one priority over anyone else. I consider myself blessed to have y'all in my life & I can'twait to see where life takes you on your journey together. God bless you both & don't be strangers!

With Love,

Lyndsay

A special thanks to all the amazing vendors who made this wedding possible:

Photography: Lyndsay Lyon Photography

Venue: Lone Oak Barn

Florals: Foxglove & Grace

Coordination: Foxglove & Grace

Catering: PoK-e-Jo's

DJ & Photo Booth: Complete Weddings

Makeup & Hair: Muah & Co. 

Wedding Cake: Classic Cakes by Lori

Cobbler: Iron Works BBQ (Hand scooped in Mason Jars)

Rentals: Monarch Event Rentals 

Wedding Dress Boutique: Belle Saison Bridal

Wedding Dress: Allure Romance

Bride's Boots : Cavenders

Bridesmaids Dresses: David's Bridal (in Biscotti)

Groom & Groomsmen Suits Location: Men's Warehouse

Groom & Groomsmen Suit Brand: Awearness Kenneth Cole

Texas Hill Country

At McKinney Falls State Park with Clint + Chandler

So much happiness fills my heart by sharing this amazing Engagement Session on the blog today! Meet Chandler & Clint y'all....and of course their adorably fluffy furbaby, Bleau (who was awfully photogenic might I add!) This couple is so full of love and chemistry for one another, they made my job as a photographer so easy! Just look at how stunning Chandler is in her two dresses and how he looks at her! *Insert heart eye emoji**

We started our session at McKinney Falls State Park and I am so glad we did because the water was flowing and we practically had the place to ourselves, which I've never seen before. I was so happy because  the sun was shining, but it was the absolute PERFECT temperature. Also, just how amazing is a waterfall for the backdrop to showcase this sweet couple? I mean, c'mon! I had a great time getting to know the sweet couple more throughout our session and as they explained their story of how they met and how Clint proposed, it made me even more excited for their wedding next January!

In Chandler's words, how they met:

"Clinton and I both grew up in a small town just 15 minutes apart from each other without even knowing it. I’m from Bastrop, TX and he is from Smithville, TX. We met through friends of friends since we were both from a small town where everyone knew everyone and then the journey began." 

We ended our session on top of Mount Bonnell as the sun went down & it was an absolutely breathtaking view of Lake Austin & the natural beauty of the Texas Hill Country. God sure did bless this great state of Texas with absolutely stunning views & I am so happy my clients chose to utilize that for their Engagement Session!

In Chandler's words, this is how Clint Proposed:

"Every year it was a tradition to travel to South Fork, Colorado where the Robertson’s have a family cabin. Going to such a beautiful state and town became a tradition to gather there for family vacation and relaxation. Each trip we would go to a beautiful cliff that would outlook over many mountains for many miles. This spot we have been coming to the past 3 years was where the proposal was planned.

As Clinton had bought the ring and planned this for months the day finally came that we traveled to Colorado for a family thanksgiving trip. This trip we had planned to go to this traditional beautiful cliff outlook 2 days before thanksgiving. My mom, dad, Clinton and I drove through the mountains to the cliff. When we got there we were looking for a great spot to stand to be able to take a photo. Clinton had been looking down at the ground at multiple ledges the cliff had and I had no idea what he was doing (this was him trying to find a spot that he wouldn’t fall off the edge when he got down on one knee because he’s scared of heights lol) we finally decided on a spot. As we were posing for a photo Clinton looked at me and said “ I want to spend forever with you” and after that I was in shock and aw that I could not remember what else he said because I knew what was about to happen. Clinton to this day, even though he planned something to say to me, doesn’t know what he said either because he was so nervous. That is when he got down on one knee and proposed.

That beautiful outlook that has become a tradition has now become a lifetime memory we will never forget."

We had such a great time together and how perfect is the sun shining through on these two? Natural light is something that really can't be duplicated & we were blessed with a fabulous day for our session. They completely rocked their session & I can't wait for the big day!

Chandler & Clint, 

 I am so honored to have you as my sweet clients & I really look forward to serving you on your wedding day to capture the memories for you that you can cherish for years to come. You are in such a special chapter of your lives as you begin your life together, so remember to take time for each other and also for relaxation while you plan for the big day. I can't wait to be there for you in January! 

Grow With Me

One Year of Photo Sessions with Baby Mae

I am so excited and honored to show y'all these precious photos of sweet baby Mae! I have been photographing this sweet girl since she was a newborn last March! We had a Newborn Session, a 4 month session, an 8 month session and a One year session! It has been such a blessing to see her and her sweet parents every few months & see how much she has grown in between each time we get together. She's running around everywhere now & quite the curious little babe. Also, how adorable is her curly red hair and bright blue eyes?

I put together a collage of each session for you to also see how she's grown this past year! I truly hope you enjoy taking a look as much as I enjoyed meeting up with this sweet family each time throughout the year.

During our 4 month session, I was so impressed with how animated she had become and aware of the people around her. She was all smiles and such a happy baby!

For her 8 month session, I was suprised to see how mobile she was! She couldn't quite stand and walk yet, but she loved pulling herself up to stand for a few seconds at a time. Again, she was all smiles! 

At our 12 month session, she was quite the mobile babe! She was pouring 'tea' for me and for her sweet momma and pretending the 'sip' the tea. It was adorable. 

Her parents are so in love with their sweet babe & I love seeing the progression of photos showing all the love they have for their precious daughter.

Shelley & Ryan, 

  It was such an honor to be able to capture your first child's moments throughout her first year! It was also great being able to meet up with y'all throughout the year to hear about all her 'firsts'. Time really does fly by & I am so glad you chose to be there to capture each stage in this amazing chapter in y'alls life. I look forward to being able to capture many more stages of your sweet family in the future, so don't be strangers. God bless!

With Love,

Lyndsay

Puppy Love

At Mattie's & South Lamar with Jake + Abbey

If I could accurately tell you how many days so far this year that Texas has had weather even remotely close to what it was like for this session, I can honestly say I may not need both hands to count. This day was P.E.R.F.E.C.T y'all! And I mean perfect. Let me just set the scene for you:

Clear skies up above. Sun rays shining down. Puppy kisses full of love. Champagne, winding down. Light breeze through the hair. Belly laughs everywhere.

This engagement session brought so much joy. Meet Jake & Abbey...oh yes, and how could I forget to introduce their adorably lovable furbaby, Lucy. We started our session at their beautiful condo off of South Lamar on the stairs leading up to their front door. Just look at this adorable family y'all, seriously!

When Abbey & I started to discuss location options they had in mind for their session, she mentioned possibly having part of their session at a restaurant called Mattie's. My eyes immediately lit up when she said the name because I have heard quite a buzz about this refined, but swanky South Austin restaurant. I had seen photos that others had posted taken at Mattie's - they posted them on their chic style blogs as the new "Austin Food Gem". I was very excited to be able to have our photo session at Mattie's & I will say without a doubt, it did not disappoint. This place is absolutely gorgeous! 

The story of how they met explained by Abbey:

"After high school, we both decided to attend The University of Texas at Austin and both chose to live in Dobie, a freshman dorm just off campus. I was on the 5th floor, and Jake was on the 12th floor. He had moved into to Dobie with his friend from high school, Taylor Brasher, as his roommate. Taylor is actually now our Best Man in our wedding! My friends and I met Taylor in Dobie cafeteria (a lot of kids would hang out there and socialize), and he invited us to come hang out and meet his friends one night after dinner. When we showed up, Jake was there, and that’s where we first met! We all spent the night hanging out playing games, and Jake and I immediately hit it off."

Q: Abbey, what’s the story of your proposal?

Jake and I actually decided to choose a ring together, so we spent months visiting with different jewelers learning about different cuts of diamonds and settings. We actually chose the loose diamond and the setting of my ring together, but I never got to see the completed ring until he proposed! At the time, I was still living in Dallas, and he had moved back to Austin for a great job opportunity. We would trade off visiting each other on the weekends, and this weekend was my turn to visit Austin. He told me he made plans for us to go to the lake for the weekend, and that he had chosen a house on Air BNB and booked it already. (This tipped me off a little because he never ever books anything on his own, usually I’d be the one doing all the research and planning!) When I arrived, it was close to sunset since I had to drive from Dallas after work. He (and Taylor) had set up a walkway of lights and candles to the deck on this lake house, with a beautiful view of the lake. He had a little table set up with photos of us, and just asked me to marry him right there! As soon as i said yes, people started cheering and all our friends ran out of the lake house (they had been hiding inside and watching through the window). We spent the weekend on the lake celebrating with our best friends. It was an amazing weekend!

Abbey & Jake, I had such a great time with y'all on your Engagement Session & I am really looking forward to your wedding day. I hope you two really enjoy this chapter leading up to the big day. Remember to keep laughing, don't stress the small stuff when it comes to the planning process and wake up every day knowing you are very blessed to have one another. I am honored to be your wedding photographer - let the countdown begin!

With Love,

Lyndsay

Bright & Sunny

At Mckinney Falls & Seaholm District with Kevin + Taylor

Taylor & Kevin are two of the most amazing people I've ever met. They believe in true love wholeheartedly & it shows! When we first met, it was at Starbucks. We began to talk details and let me tell you - we talked about EVERYTHING! Kevin blushed while explaining the story of how he proposed & excitedly left no detail out. It was so incredible to be able to hear how they met & fell in love. I absolutely loved getting to know these two!

We were about an hour and a half in to our meeting and all of a sudden, something very peculiar happened. Just as I took a sip of my tea, time stopped for a moment & we were all completely on the same wave length. Let me explain...We talked about literally everything & somehow began talking about favorite numbers. Well, as I took a sip of my tea, they both mentioned to me that their favorite numbers are 10 & 13. I nearly spit out my drink when they told me that. Random enough it would even happen to come up in conversation, but the fact that my birthday is October 13th - (TEN.THIRTEEN people!),  I saw this as an immediate sign that we were going to get along very well. It was one of those moments where you just felt like you were exactly where I needed to be. Does that ever happen to you? I call this type of moment "a God thing" because it's almost like He did this to make us all laugh, smile & say "you're kidding, right?". The odds. Also, not only is their wedding in my birthday month, it is actually on Halloween night, which I am really looking forward to!

Can we all just take moment to look at how stunningly gorgeous Taylor's green eyes are. For the record, I have never seen eyes so green, they were made to be in front of the camera! They both rocked the session & I absolutely loved getting to know them even a bit more during our time together in the sun. Countdown to their Halloween wedding begins now! 

Q: Taylor, what’s your proposal story?

Kevin surprised me with a weekend away filled with shopping and delicious food. We drove out to San Antonio and spent the day at the river walk, eating, shopping, and visiting the local museums. That night we laid down for bed and I mentioned that something felt a little strange and asked if he needed to tell me something, he said no and tomorrow we would head home. The next day we did not head home, but toward Lost Maples park, which was absolutely beautiful! We hiked a few miles toward the top of the hill and stopped about half way to the top, going off the main trail to a cliff that overlooked the hills and trees. The view was a perfect resting point and Kevin apparently needed to scrummage through our backpack before we continued. As I enjoyed the view, he continued to dig in the backpack and ask me if I needed any water, which I declined, again. Eventually he comes out with the box. He was smiling so much, I couldn’t help but to return the same. The ring was gorgeous, but I needed to focus on what he was saying! J He told me over and over how much he loved me…sparkle sparkle….love…sparkle. I said yes!! As soon as he was able to get the ring on my puffy hiking finger, I jumped toward him, so excited he finally asked!! I had forgotten we were on the edge of a cliff, but was less than focused and rolled around kissing him while he tried to keep us from falling off. We eventually made it back to the car where he poured us a glass of champagne and we enjoyed some delicious snacks, as the sun set.

Museum Mayhem

At Blanton Museum & Seaholm District Engagement with Zach & Noelle

I am so excited to post this amazing Engagement Session with Zach & Noelle! The Blanton Museum is my favorite museum in Austin & is closed on Mondays each week. Well, these two rented it out for part of our session & when they brought the idea up in conversation, I was more than excited! I am in love with the light blue ombre wall that is in the main grand room at the foot of the stairs of the museum-it almost makes you feel like you're standing at the bottom of the ocean in the Caribbean! These two were so fun to hang out with on our session & I loved being able to hear about how their worlds first collided with the help of a little technology & an updated grasp of what dating really looks like in today's day and age.  

How did y'all meet and what was your first date like?

Zach - "Noelle and I first met on a dating app., which reflecting back on is still fairly unconventional at this point
in time - but we count ourselves really lucky to have met our significant other in this way.
 
Our first date ended up being one of our most favorite/funniest memories we share with our friends and
new faces when people ask "How did you two meet?".
 
After chatting for a little bit on the app. we decided to grab drinks - Noelle insisted that we had to grab
food if we were going to get drinks, and if we were going to grab food then it had to be tacos. We
decided on a local East-Austin mezcal bar for the first date.
 
We got to the restaurant and immediately hit it off - there was never a dull moment during the date. At
some point during the date we put in our orders: I got fish tacos and Noelle got al pastor. After more
conversation and a couple more drinks our food comes out, but I notice something a little off about the
food. The plates look identical - both fish tacos. The plates are set down and I look over at Noelle:
"Hey Noelle, I don't think that is tacos al pastor. You should tell the waiter and I'm sure he'll change it out
for you."
"Oh no, it's fine. I really don't mind."
"You sure? You should get what you ordered."
"Yah, it's fine."
 
So, I left it at that and we enjoyed our dinner. After I'd finished my plate I noticed across the table that
Noelle had hardly touched her tacos but I shrugged it off as her being nervous and that she didn';t want
to eat a ton of food in front of a stranger. We wrapped up the date with plans made for a second and
said good night.
 
Flashforward about a month and a few more dates. We were driving in my car to dinner and we're
chatting about what our favorite foods are. I somehow get on the subject of salmon burgers and how
much I love them as a quick dinner when Noelle stops me:
"Hey Zach…"
"What's up?"
"I have a confession to tell you…"
"What is it?"
"I don't like fish."
"Wait what?! You ate fish on our first -"
"Yah, I don't like fish at all. In fact thinking about eating fish makes me sick."
"No way - this whole time?! You could have had those al pastor tacos!"
 
We laugh every time we remember that conversation, or any time we drive past that restaurant. I think
that was something that really stood out to me about Noelle - how easy it was for us to make each other
laugh. It's still like that today."

Noelle - "Zach and I met on Tinder. I had never been on that or any other dating app before, but my cousin and I were bored one night and decided to see what all the fuss was about.  I didn't think anything would come of it but look where we are now.  Zach swiped up on my profile (which I later found it is called a "superswipe"), so I guess he meant serious business.  After not replying to his (or anyone's) messages, he sent over a gif of a guy at a computer waiting for a response.  Over time as the man is waiting for a reply, he turns into a skeleton.  Which of course prompted conversation!

Our first date was in East Austin at a taco bar (I insisted on tacos, Zach insisted on drinks).  We talked for a quite a while and didn't even notice how much time had passed before we decided to call it a night. A funny story that we like to tell people is how the kitchen got my order wrong and gave me fish tacos.  I hate fish.  But didn't want to seem picky so I "acted cool" and ate a little bit.  But it's terrible because Zach loves fish and he was raving about salmon like two months later.  That's when I knew I had to 'fess up. 

Can you describe the Proposal story?

Zach - "

I began engagement ring shopping secretly around August 2017 while Noelle was on vacation with her
family in Italy. Started off at Tiffany's (yikes), talked to some local Austin jewelers, but ended up going
with an online ring retailer to find the perfect ring.
 
Simultaneously, I got Noelle's cousins involved with ring selection and brainstorming creative ways that I
could ask Noelle to marry me. Poetry or write a song, no not my style. Big gesture, not really my thing
either. Family gathering - bingo. I knew that I wanted to find a way to honor my parents in the
engagement as well, so I decided to "ask the question" to Noelle on the same day that my parents got
engaged - Christmas Eve.
 
Now I just had to get the parents on board to convince her side of the family to be in Austin for the
proposal … while all keeping it a secret. No pressure. I took her parents out to dinner in October while
Noelle conveniently had classes so not to raise any suspicion. The parents and I had a great dinner - I
remember I was so nervous about asking, so I got it out of the way right when we first sat down - "Look
if I don't say this at the beginning I';m just going to be a nervous wreck and I'm not going to be able to
enjoy my dinner - I want to marry your daughter!"
They gave me their blessing and we enjoyed the rest of the night over some cocktails and good food.
 
The ring came in around mid-October and that thing burned a hole in my pocket for almost two and a
half months. There were so many times where I was tempted to not wait until Christmas Eve and just
propose because I was so excited to share it with Noelle. But I waited and I planned.
 
My plan was to present the ring in a sort of Russian nesting doll format, but with boxes. Each box would
sit inside the next with a different present in each. I got Noelle a massage gift certificate, lotion form
L'Occitane, and the last box had the engagement ring box in it.
 
Christmas Eve quickly rolled around the corner and the big night was upon us. The whole proposal was
about to go down in front of her entire Peruvian side of the family. It's tradition in Latin American
cultures that you open presents on Christmas Eve close to midnight, so I'd ask the cousins earlier that
day to help wrangle people into the living room and to take pictures after dinner.
 
Everyone settled in to the living room and all the "kids" began passing present around to everyone. My
heart was beating faster and faster as less and less presents sat under the Christmas Tree. When it got
towards the end I took my presents to Noelle and waited patiently with the ring in my pocket.
 

She was already knew that I'd purchased the lotion for, but I got the massage certificate to throw her off
my tracks - and to my delight she didn't seem to suspect what was in the last box. When she finally
opened the last box and got to the engagement ring she said "What's this?" That's when I dropped to
one knee and popped the question "Noelle, will you marry me?"
 
"Wait, really? … Yes, of course!"
 
It's been a whirlwind of planning ever since!

These two truly love each other & they shared how much they enjoy reading together, which I thought was amazing. Those who read together, stay together- is that a saying? It should be. I've always been taught to never stop learning & I think that two people who enjoy reading and keeping their minds sharp can only mutually benefit their lifelong commitment towards one another. There is something to be said about this mutual trait they both posses and it is very motivating for me as well to pick up my book currently on my bedside table and cozy up with tea to be brought in to a different world for a moment. 

I asked the two to send me a few notes with a recap of their story and I was so impressed by what they included. How amazing is it that Zach included specific reasons why he loves Noelle:

"There are about a thousand different reasons that I love Noelle, but here are just a few that I wanted to
share with you, the reader:
 She finds a way to make me laugh. Every. Single. Day.
 We can be goofy as hell when no one is around
 She's always down for a board game

 We love our national parks and have plans to visit as many as we can before we're too old
 She embraces my inner nerd. She even joins in every now and then
 When we disagree, there is always forgiveness and commitment to make each other better
 She's brought me closer to God and supported me to be a better man
 Her family has made me feel so welcome
 Her generosity and empathy towards others (especially those less fortunate) is contagious
 She finds new ways to show me her love
 
It's for all these reasons and so many more that I decided I wanted Noelle to be my wife."

Also, refering to after their first date, Noelle said this:

"We've been inseparable ever since, and have loved every minute of it.  From going to Book People in downtown Austin, walking around the hike and bike trail, rock climbing, and everything in between, we have become best friends.  Zach proposed on Christmas Eve in front of my entire (we're talking 30 people) family, just like Zach's father did many years ago."

Zach & Noelle really seem to be such a great match, especially because they enjoy so many of the same things. They explained how excited they were for the Astros winning the World Series and sported their Houston pride. Also, Noelle found her favorite words in her book that said "'Though mayest, Thou mayest!'". I love that Zach honors Noelle for bringing him closer to the Lord. That is one bond we all share & it was very encouraging to read that. It was such a joy to spend time with these two and I cannot wait for their wedding in January! Cheers, to Zach & Noelle- May your love be strong and may your faith be great.

“So now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love.”

— 1 Corinthians 13:13