When I say this Colton House Hotel engagement session was peak Austin cool, I mean it. Moody hotel vibes? Check. Chill strolls down SoCo? Double check. A couple that’s as effortlessly in love as they are funny and down-to-earth? Absolutely.

Matt and Eliza’s session took us through two of my favorite places to photograph in Austin: Colton House Hotel (and Simona’s Coffee inside) and the always-iconic South Congress Avenue. These two locations couldn’t have fit them better.

Moody Meets Modern at Colton House Hotel

Inside the Colton House Hotel, the vibe was straight out of a sophisticated cigar lounge. Cool tones, quiet confidence, and that subtle luxe feel that’s impossible to fake. Eliza has this natural elegance about her, and Matt? He’s got that “cool without trying” energy that worked so well with the moody tones and layered textures of the space. This session was everything a Colton House Hotel engagement session should be: chic, intimate, and sophisticated.

And then we hit SoCo.

The second we stepped onto South Congress, everything lightened up. They laughed easily, walked hand-in-hand like they’ve done it a thousand times before (spoiler: they have), and soaked up the sunshine and sidewalk charm like only true Austinites can. This part of the session was all about real moments. A shared glance, goofy smiles, and the kind of natural connection that can’t be staged.

From Foreign Policy to Forever

These two first met during their U.S. Foreign Policy class at the Bush School of Government and Public Service at Texas A&M (yes, they’re that power couple). Sparks flew, but it wasn’t until a Halloween party (where Matt was in a corner munching chips and Eliza confronted him for seemingly ignoring her) that their real connection began.

Fast forward to February 16, 2025 on the boardwalk at Town Lake. After weeks of teasing with “fake proposals,” Matt turned to Eliza and said, “I have a question I’ve been meaning to ask you.” Her response? “Are you f***ing serious?” 😂 Then came the real deal: one knee, one perfect question, and a very enthusiastic yes.

Their Love in Their Words

Matt says he knew Eliza was “the one” when he realized she was the first person he wanted to see in the morning and the last at night. She accepts every part of him. Even the messy, flawed ones, and he swears there’s no better life partner out there.

Eliza’s words? “He’s literally the best.” (Mic drop.) She calls him her perfect complement, the only person who fully embraces her quirks (including the non-stop chatting), and the one who always makes her laugh.

A Life Built on Love, Service, and Zuko

Together, they’re laid-back, fiercely loyal, and passionate about making a difference through public service. Their weekends are a dreamy mix of coffee dates, walks, dog park hangs with their pup Zuko, and cozy movie nights. They’re the kind of couple that makes you believe love can be both simple and extraordinary.

Matt and Eliza, thank you for letting me tell a piece of your story. Your session was filled with warmth, laughter, and that undeniable “we just get each other” kind of connection. I can’t wait to photograph your wedding at Camp Lucy!

Planning Your Own Colton House Hotel Engagement Session?

If you’re into moody interiors, downtown Austin charm, and a blend of romance + real life, a Colton House Hotel engagement session might be your perfect vibe too. Whether you’re planning something stylish and intimate or fun and full of city charm, I’d love to help you bring your vision to life.