Why you need a wedding planner.

There are dozens of articles out there about this subject, so there isn't much I could possibly say on the matter that hasn't been said already.  Instead, I turned to our tried-and-true vendors to offer insights.  Vendors have a unique perspective in the wedding world, because they have seen it all!  So, here is what they had to say on the subject of wedding planners:

"Wedding planners are instrumental for a smooth wedding experience.  There are so many details that need to be communicated to each wedding vendor to make sure the day goes off without a hitch.  Also, it's nice to not be the person in charge the day of the wedding.  Let the coordinator make sure all the votives are lit on the tables!"  -Kim Hanks, Whim Hospitality

"A lot of couples, don't realize that a wedding planner actually saves them money because of their experience with reviewing contracts and quotes. We are able to suggest vendors that are perfect for their budget without compromising their vision."  -Alisha Anderson, Texas Hill Country Events

"As a vendor we feel that a planner for an event is an essential part of having the event run smoothly.  The planner is the liasion between the couple and the vendors, by helping choose vendors that work well together and helping with contracts.  Vendors know that if a planner is working with the couple that the wedding timeline will be followed, and the bride will feel more comfortable and is able to enjoy her day." -Denise Stone, Bee Lavish Vintage Rentals

"I have been photographing weddings for 8 years now. When we have a consultation with a potential bride and groom, we ask "so..who is your planner, coordinator or "day of" person?" Half of our clients don't have one. In the past, we would write the timeline, pin on boutonnieres, line up the wedding party and act as a planner up until the DJ took over. It just became too much for us. Now, we strongly suggest that the couple secures a professional planner (and not the "Aunt that planned a wedding 15 years ago") because it is money well invested. A resourceful, problem solving, fast moving and organized planner makes the whole day better for everyone. No one ever regrets having a planner like this. At the end of the night, when the photographer and planner stuff you both into the limo, you will look at us and say "Thanks for making our day!"  -Bill Peary, Peary Photography

“As a photographer, I love my brides to have a planner.  This allows me to focus on my job 100 percent.  When I’m trying to keep everyone on schedule and organized, I can’t think as creatively as I'd like.  When I’m free to focus on creating timeless photos, my clients are happier in the end." -Jennifer Weems, Weems Photography

We are so lucky to have working relationships with several planners that are local and knowledgeable about the Hill Country.  If you need a recommendation for your wedding, let us know! 

Our reception hall is under construction!

One of the many things people love about the ranch is the authenticity of the historic buildings!  When people step onto the Ranch, they usually make their way into the Dance Hall first.  This is the only building that was originally on the ranch, and it was converted into it's current state with lots of TLC.

Inside you will find custom bar stools, neon signs, an antique cash register, and other gems of Texas culture.  This space is great for cocktail hours, when you really want your guests to start to unwind and have fun!  For weddings, this is also a great space to have your guest books, gift station, photo booth, and buffet line.  Everyone will be talking about all the fascinating memorabilia on display.




While everyone loves that space and of course the gorgeous trees and wildlife we have around the Ranch, we decided that it was time to expand on to our Dance Hall.  Immediately adjacent to it, we are building a reception hall that will be able to facilitate more guests inside.  You can expect to see high ceilings, exposed beam work, and repurposed barn wood.  We have Corey working on pulling the materials now!  It will have the same rustic charm that the rest of the Ranch has, but will give all of our guests more flexibility when it comes to rain plans and weddings that happen in the middle of summer or winter.  Look for photos on our Facebook page to see how everything is coming together.

For those of you who have already booked your event with us, look for an invitation after construction is complete to come out and see the finished product.  We are really excited about 2015, so keep checking in with us about everything that is going on!

New Year, new things to look forward to!

As if 2014 wasn't crazy enough on the Ranch, 2015 doesn't show any signs of slowing down.

We were enormously blessed last year as we opened our gates and the local community and wedding professionals welcomed our coming.  We officially launched on September 28th with an open house designed by Christina Lewis and were immediately met with a great response.  We were featured in newspapers, on radio stations, and in magazines.

We are looking forward to 2015 and some new developments on the Ranch.  Kathy is still buzzing around the property keeping us all in line.  Corey, who is a new addition to the staff, works tirelessly keeping everything in perfect working order.  And Kevin, well, he's Kevin.

Our calendar is filling up and we are so excited to be working with some great couples and talented planners this year.  I have seen some fantastic and fun ideas come in; it makes me want to get married all over again.  We will keep you posted on some of the new things coming our way this year.  It's going to be a great one!

A stunning first look!

Many thanks to all the fabulous vendors that came out under the direction of Pink Parasol designs for this shoot that is now on Swooned!  Photography was courtesy of the always-lovely Al Gawlik.

I love all the photos, especially the ones that show off our gorgeous trees.  Quaint farmhouse tables perfectly lit under soft string lights really create a sense of family, fun, and country elegance.  Thank you to Whim for bringing it all to life!