The Wedding of Sierra and John

Private Residence/Austin Country Club

September 20, 2008

What is a more perfect setting than a huge backyard, in the middle of Austin, with a koi pond larger than most people’s swimming pool? Several swimming pools actually. When I was asked to join the team for Sierra & John’s wedding, I was honored. When I found out the ceremony would be in the backyard across the street from her parent’s home, I was GIDDY! See, this backyard is something I have only heard about and seen in photos, never in person. As you enter through the iron gate, you feel as though you are instantly in a fairy tale. The lawn, gardens, maze, ponds, pools, waterfalls and flowers…all go on and on.

The ceremony took place across the breathtaking koi pond. Sierra, John and their wedding party were perched on a rock “landing” surrounded by flowers, butterflies and lily pads that are large enough to hold a small person (seriously!). With the birds chirping and cool breeze blowing, Sierra and John sealed their love. This California-based couple wanted something different for their guests, and I think they accomplished that and more!

Once the ceremony concluded, our fun couple climbed on the back of a fire engine red convertible and made their way to Austin Country Club about a mile away.There, guests were greeted with cool cocktails and fantastic hors d‘oeuvres that left everyone going back for seconds. Everyone enjoyed The Atlantics amazing variety of music that kept the dance floor packed, and Amy’s Ice Cream was the sweet treat later in the night. Mother of the Bride, Candy, was a joy to work with throughout the process as she lived here in Austin.

Friday evening, Richard and Candy Snyder opened their home to host the rehearsal dinner by the groom’s parent’s Joyce & Doug Elcock. Philip Thomas, our photographer, captured the evening beautifully in the following images. As you can see, this was a night that no one wanted to end. I had such a wonderful time throughout the months of planning with Sierra, John and their families.

Though they’re settled in California, I hope they will always remember fondly the Southern hospitality Austin offered on their very special weekend as they joined their lives together.

Cheers!