Love Through the Rain: Hanna & Hunter's Beautiful Spring Wedding at Garey House

Like so many Texas weddings during this unusually rainy spring season, Hanna and Hunter's wedding day came with a little bit of everything, including plenty of weather. But as every great wedding planner knows, sometimes the most memorable celebrations are the ones that don't go exactly according to plan. 

As Hanna and Hunter’s partial planner, I knew how important and special this day was for them, and wanted to make sure we created as perfect a day as possible. From the very beginning of the day, we prepared for every possibility. Hanna had always envisioned exchanging vows outdoors overlooking the pond at Garey House, but the forecast had other ideas. As setup began, we carefully put Plan B into place inside the Hall. Pipe and drape concealed the partially set reception tables, allowing the space to serve as a backup ceremony location while still being ready for a room flip later in the evening if needed.

The original vision included dinner on the lawn and dancing under the stars on the patio. Unfortunately, the rain made those plans impossible, but we were determined to preserve as much of the couple's dream day as we could. Rather than making an early weather call, we waited until the very last possible moment. Then, with only about 30 minutes before guests were scheduled to arrive, the skies began to cooperate. Thanks to an incredible team effort from vendors and groomsmen, ceremony chairs were quickly moved outside overlooking the pond. Two white pedestals adorned with elegant floral arrangements framed the ceremony space beautifully, creating a romantic setting against the natural backdrop.If the reception couldn't happen outdoors, at least Hanna and Hunter would still get the outdoor ceremony they had hoped for.

As the procession began, a light mist started to fall. Guests smiled, umbrellas appeared, and everyone carried on. This also included the family, bridal party, and couple walking under the Terrace with the handmade White Wisteria hanging on the Terrace before they walked down the main aisle.  The gentle rain continued through part of the ceremony, creating a uniquely romantic atmosphere that no one will soon forget. By the time vows were exchanged and the newlyweds shared their first kiss, the clouds began to part. Soon afterward, the sun emerged, providing the couple with some truly breathtaking portraits around the property. Adding even more meaning to the day, this was the second Haskins family wedding celebrated at Garey House. Hunter's sister had also been married at the venue several years earlier, making this return to Garey House especially sentimental for the family, yet uniquely different.

Elegant Florals with Timeless Style

Hanna envisioned a wedding that felt elegant, refined, and intentionally simple. With the help of Cone Flower Designs, that vision came to life beautifully. Calla lilies were the star of the floral design. Each bridesmaid carried a small bundle of calla lilies tied with a simple ribbon, creating a timeless and sophisticated look. Hanna's bouquet elevated the design even further, combining orchids and calla lilies for a stunning arrangement that perfectly complemented her style.

The ceremony florals were equally beautiful and didn't go to waste. After the ceremony, the arrangements were moved indoors and repurposed beside the sweetheart table, helping transform the reception space while maintaining the cohesive floral design throughout the day.

A Second Bridal Look and Plenty of Personality

One of our favorite moments happened during cocktail hour. After formal photos were completed, Hanna transformed her look by taking down her sleek bridal bun and letting her hair fall into soft waves. The result was effortless, romantic, and created some of our favorite images of the entire day.

The wedding party also brought incredible energy to every photo. Their personalities shined through in every image, making for a collection of fun, authentic memories.

Thoughtful Details Guests Will Never Forget

While appetizers and drinks were served by Dream Catering, guests enjoyed cocktail hour throughout the Great Room, patio, and lawn whenever the weather allowed. One of the most meaningful displays of the day was the welcome table. Family wedding photos from Hanna and Hunter's parents and grandparents were displayed alongside a Bible where guests could sign their names and highlight meaningful passages. It created a beautiful connection between generations and became a favorite conversation piece throughout the evening.

Another standout detail was the seating chart, which doubled as artwork. Hanna personally embellished a painted canvas portrait featuring the couple's names, wedding date, and table assignments. After the wedding, the piece would become a treasured decoration in their home which is a perfect keepsake from the day.

Transforming the Hall for an Elegant Reception

Following cocktail hour, guests were invited into the Hall for the reception. Because the indoor ceremony setup had remained intact as a weather backup throughout the ceremony, the transition required careful timing and teamwork. Once it was clear the outdoor ceremony had succeeded, vendors quickly broke down the backup setup and completed the room transformation. The reception design perfectly reflected Hanna's elegant vision. She personally sourced ivory satin linens that added warmth and sophistication throughout the room.

The sweetheart table was positioned in front of the fireplace and featured repurposed ceremony florals displayed atop the same white pedestals used during the ceremony. Flowing fabric, candlelight, and lush floral arrangements created a romantic focal point for the room. The wedding party was seated at two long farm tables arranged in a U-shape around the couple, creating an intimate setting that kept everyone connected throughout dinner. Guests were seated at round tables featuring white lace chargers, white plates, tied fabric napkins, and centerpieces composed of taper candles, pillar candles, and greenery. The result was timeless, elegant, and perfectly balanced, creating the perfect backdrop for the couple's grand entrance as the party officially got underway

Tears, Laughter, and a Cake Cutting to Remember

Throughout the reception and after the fun champagne tower, heartfelt toasts were shared by Hanna's brother, the matron of honor, the best man, and Hanna's parents. There were plenty of laughs and a few tears as loved ones celebrated the couple's journey. Instead of participating in a traditional bouquet toss, Hanna chose to honor her mother by presenting her bouquet during a touching speech that left many guests emotional.

One of the most memorable moments happened during the private cake cutting. Rather than making a public announcement, we quietly escorted Hanna and Hunter into the library for an intimate moment together. Their cake topper featured miniature replicas of their two beloved black dogs, adding a personal touch to the display. Then came the unexpected comedy. During the cake cutting, Hunter accidentally dropped a glob of icing directly onto his shoe, creating one of those perfectly imperfect wedding moments that quickly became a favorite memory for everyone involved.

Dancing, Handstands, and a Perfect Ending

Once the dance floor opened, it stayed full all night long. Guests danced, celebrated, and made the most of every moment together. One especially memorable highlight came when Hunter showed off his handstand skills, earning plenty of cheers and laughter from family and friends.

As the evening came to a close, Hanna and Hunter shared a private last dance which is always a favorite of mine. A quiet moment together before the celebration officially ended and we can prepare the guests for the grand exit. Then guests lined the front walkway of Garey House, filling the night with bubbles as the newlyweds made their grand exit.

Rain may have changed some of the plans, but it never dampened the joy of the day. From the misty outdoor ceremony overlooking the pond to the emotional family tributes, elegant details, and unforgettable dance floor moments, Hanna and Hunter's wedding was a beautiful reminder that sometimes the most meaningful celebrations happen when you embrace the unexpected.

Vendors:

Planner:Moments and Milestones- Heather @moments.milestones

Venue: Garey House @gareyhousegtx

Florist:Cone Flower Design @coneflowerdesigns

Catering & Bar: Dream Events @dreameventsaustin

Cake:Classy Cakes by Lori @classycakesbylori

DJ:Full Scope Entertainment @myfullscope

Photo & Video:Blue Our Photo and Film. @blueourphotoandfilm

Hair: Razmataz Salon@razmatazsalon