Dreamy Wedding in a River: Lauren + Andrew

wedding in a river

Lauren + Andrew tied the knot in one of the most unique locations we’ve seen here at GWS – in the middle of a flowing river! Definitely not something you hear about everyday! As soon as their guests arrived at Andrew’s family ranch (right outside of Fredericksburg, Texas) they were invited to grab a drink, “check” their shoes at a shoe check, and walk down to the river. Lauren + Andrew provided flip-flips for all + encouraged people to join them in the water for the ceremony. What followed was a surreal + beautiful vow exchange, a 20-person choir flashmob recessional, and a super fun dance party reception that lasted well into the night. We’ve said it before, but we’ll say it again: this would have been an epic wedding to attend! Let’s hear more about the river idea from Lauren:

Andrew’s family ranch is a very special place that’s beauty and charm is hard to describe without being able to lay eyes on it. Within the first moments of our engagement, we both knew that was where we wanted to get married. As that night progressed and cocktails were flowing, Andrew threw out the idea that we should get married in the water. A genius idea at the time, but I definitely had my doubts as the wedding planning progressed (after all there are no dress rehearsals when your walking thru water). Luckily for me, we had an amazing team of people who shared the same vision and made our day happen without a glitch.

Big thanks to Ariel Renae for the gorgeous, gorgeous photos + congratulations to Lauren + Andrew on a beautiful + super unique day! :)

river wedding

boot ranch

cows

goodie bag

bride and groom

bride


I found my dress designer (Samuelle Couture) on Pinterest. I fell in love with one of her designs and immediately emailed her to find out where I could purchase one of her dresses. Come to find out she created these gorgeous dresses out of her apartment in Brooklyn and had yet to be in any retail stores. I flew up to meet her in person and knew I had to have one of her designs. We worked together via phone and email to design my dress. She is unbelievably talented. I met with her once more about 6 months later and then again in March to pick up the final product. It was perfect. She was a delight to work with and nailed my vision. Her attention to detail was impeccable and it is a privilege to own one of her dresses.

river bride

groom

bride and groom

bride and groom

bride and groom

bride

blue loafers

bride and groom

bride and groom


Gosh, that dress!

pretty river bride

flowy sleeves

bride and groom

bride and groom

ranch wedding

chalkboard sign


Lauren used to work for Nordstrom and had just moved to Dallas when Andrew came in to buy pants for business school. After hours of Andrew trying to narrow down what type of pants (chinos? jeans? slacks?) he needed, and a little bit of sweet talking, Lauren eventually agreed to go on a date with him…and the rest, as they say, is history! As a nod to their sweet beginnings, L + A decided to brand their shindig #shesoldhimpants. Love it!

instagram

drinks

wedding in a river

wedding in a river

wedding in a river

wedding in a river

wedding in a river

wedding in a river

Our Musical Choices

Processional: Bridal Party: Viva la Vida – Cold Play + Clocks – Cold Play; Bride: Til Kingdom Come – Cold Play

Recessional: All You Need is Love – The Beatles (Flash Mob!!!)

First Dance: I found you – Alabama Shakes

wedding in a river

wedding in a river

wedding_river_ceremony

wedding in a river

wedding in a river

wedding in a river


Is this not the most beautiful place to say I Do? We just can’t get over it!

wedding in a river

wedding in a river

wedding in a river

wedding in a river

bouquet

river bride

bride and groom river

bride and groom river

cakes

candles

greenery

golden flowers

airplants and greenery


The tent was dripping with stunning florals by the team at STEMS and, of course, a generous helping of string lights to give the place a gorgeous glow!

foliage chandelier

airplant centerpieces

cakes

bubbly

first dance

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Our Advice To Those Planning Now
Have fun with it!

photography: Ariel Renae // venue name: Rio Bonito in Fredericksburg, Texas // florals: STEMS // wedding dress: Samuelle Couture // bride's shoes: Jimmy Choo // bridesmaid dresses: Diane Von Furstenberg // hair stylist: Joanna Escobar // makeup artist: Yonea Cannon // groom attire: Tom Ford // videography: Shark Pig // paper goods: Stephanie Bybee // catering: Word of Mouth Catering // cake: Sophie's Bakery // event planner: Liv by Design // ceremony music: Dave Madden and No Strings Attached // reception music: Blind Date

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