There wasn’t a big venue or elaborate setup — just open land, a handful of loved ones nearby, and two people grounded in what truly mattered.
This North Austin intimate wedding took place on family property, a space already full of history and love. It set the tone for a day that felt intentional from the start: intimate, calm, and fully theirs.
Private Vows Before It All Began
Before guests arrived, they met under a quiet stretch of trees for something just between them — private vows. No one else. Just the two of them and time to say what needed to be said without an audience.
Then came the ceremony. Again, it was just them, their officiant, and me. No guests. No distractions. Just stillness, honesty, and the weight of what they were stepping into — together.
A Minimal Setup with Maximum Heart
There was no arch or aisle. A few chairs were scattered for the reception later, but for this part? It was just space. Open sky, warm ground, and the kind of silence that makes you pay attention.
What they chose to do — stripping the ceremony down to its core — made it all the more powerful.
A Familiar, Easygoing Celebration
Afterward, family and friends joined for a casual, heartfelt reception. Long tables, laughter, shared food, and easy conversations. The kind of evening where time slows down and everyone stays just a little longer than planned.
Weddings That Begin With Intention
Getting married on family land doesn’t just mean fewer logistics. It means layering the day with meaning. Every tree, every path, every shared moment exists in a place that already knows them.
No rentals or timelines could’ve given this day more weight. It already had roots.
FAQs: Hosting a Private Wedding on Family Land in Austin
Can you legally have a private wedding in Texas?
Yes. As long as you have an officiant and your marriage license, you can keep the ceremony as private or public as you’d like.
What’s the benefit of private vows before the ceremony?
It creates space for honesty without the pressure of performing. It’s grounding — and often becomes one of the most emotionally rich parts of the day.
Can we still have a reception after a private ceremony?
Absolutely. You can keep the ceremony quiet and personal, and still celebrate afterward with everyone you love. It’s the best of both worlds.
Do you need a coordinator for a backyard or family land wedding?
Having a day-of coordinator helps things flow smoothly — especially when balancing a private ceremony with a larger reception.
