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!

Greystar South Congress Apartments Grand Opening

Greystar South Congress Apartments

September 17, 2008

Soirée teamed up with Rare Magazine to host the grand opening of the Greystar South Congress apartments. Greystar South Congress is the hip new apartment community located on South Congress, just north of 290. The event showcased work from local artist Chad Harlan, as seen in the September issue of Rare. Food was served from some of our favorite spots including Ecstatic Cuisine, Roux, The Woodland, Starlite, Irie Bean, and Delish.

A special raffle was held to benefit the Young Filmmakers Program of the Austin Film Festival. The highlight of the evening was the fashion show. Models worked the runway that was built over the pool. (That's right, over the pool!) Special thanks to Tito's Vodka, Maine Root, Sweet Leaf Tea, Ilios Lighting, and Marquee Rents for helping to make this such a success!

The Bel Air Lofts Phase II Grand Opening Party

Bel Air Lofts
September 4, 2008

Thursday marked the grand opening of the Bel Air Lofts Phase II. The unique and modern Bel Air Lofts are located on trendy South Congress. The event had a Palm Springs feel as guests listened to Frank Sinatra hits and enjoyed Bloody Marys. Hot rods from various collectors were on display at the property, and guests were treated to a special surprise as the roller derby team Hot Rod Honeys skated up to the party. The Hot Rod Honeys mingled throughout the party while staying on skates the whole time . . . very impressive!