Rachael and Tony had an intimate Terrace at Highland Lakes wedding in Lago Vista. Although it was a small wedding, it was a BIG celebration!
About the Couple
This adventurous, outdoorsy, sarcastic, and goofy couple first met on Rachael’s birthday at iFly in 2013. There was automatic chemistry and the two started dating right away.
After years of traveling, experiencing new cultures, and raising two fur-babies together, Tony proposed on a secluded beach in Roatan.
9 Years Later …
Nine years of dating and their big day is finally here! Rachael and Tony are ready to say “I do” at their intimate wedding in Lago Vista with their closest friends and family!
The bridal area at the Terrace at Highland Lakes is beautiful, large, and consists of two smaller rooms and one large, theater-like open area. It was the perfect private space for all the ladies to get ready:
Rachael’s Баба arrived and it was obvious just how close the two are …
Putting on the finishing touches before her first look with Tony:
First Look
In our original timeline, Rachael and Tony didn’t include their first look. It was so important to them to have their moment between just the two of them.
Because I arrived a bit earlier than planned, I asked if they wanted me to photograph it. Rachael agreed she wanted it documented but from a distance. So I stayed by the entrance to the venue capturing it from afar, while the two shared their intimate first look under this gorgeous tree:
“I Do”
Rachael’s brother played crucial roles in their ceremony, from playing the ceremonial music to officiating their wedding. This added to the intimate, personal, and sweet touches that the couple included in their special day. And he looked so stylish doing it!
First look or not, seeing his bride walk down the aisle was still an emotional moment for Tony …
Can we just take a moment to appreciate the views from the Terrace at Highland Lakes!?!
Their personal vows had the two cracking up!
And after nine years, Rachael and Tony are married!!!
Formal Photos
Post-ceremony, we gathered the wedding party and family for some formal portraits:
Before I stole the newlyweds for some intimate portraits:
And, of course, it’s not official until it’s official! Before heading into their reception, Rachael and Tony signed their marriage license and celebrated with a high-five!
Did Someone Say “Party?!”
The flower girl had a big job: to announce the now-husband and wife!
It was important to the couple to incorporate tradition into their day. One of the most fun traditions was the Bulgarian tradition of breaking the bread.
“The bride and groom stand with their backs towards one another and hold the bread over their heads. Once signaled, they both try to break the bigger piece of bread, which is supposed to symbolize who will be “the head of the house.”
Tony bowed down graciously and accepted defeat 😂
Lucky for him, Rachael not only accepted her role as “head of the house,” but was also willing to share the bread with him 😆
Before the dancing commenced, Rachael and Tony’s mothers, best man, and maid of honor toasted the happy couple:
Tony had written a song specially for Rachael.
This song was performed by Tony’s sister and good friend, Gerard, for their first dance.
Which was then followed by a special dance with their mothers:
I couldn’t help but sneak the two out for some sunset photos …
And then it was time to partyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy!
Another tradition incorporated into their wedding day was Bulgarian folk dancing, which had everyone on the floor, having a great time!
Rachael snuck off for an outfit change:
Congratulations to this beautiful couple! And cheers to your nine years together and to 100 more to come!
Wedding Vendors:
Ceremony and Reception Venue: Terrace at Highland Lakes ♥ Wedding Planner: Touch of Green ♥ Wedding Dress Boutique: Blue Bridal ♥ Wedding Dress Designer: Willow by Watters ♥ Photographer: Sweet Memories Photography ♥ Officiant: Bride’s Brother ♥ Ceremony Music: Bride’s Brother ♥ Cakes: 85°C Bakery ♥ Catering: Terrace at Highland Lakes ♥ DJ: Bride’s Brother