Beginning at the Origin Austin Hotel to a faith-filled ceremony at Our Lady Maronite Catholic Church and a vibrant Etter-Harbin Alumni Center wedding reception. Their day was layered with love, tradition, and a whole lot of personality.

Rooted in their Auburn love story and strengthened by long-distance challenges, this wedding was more than a celebration—it was a homecoming for a relationship that had already traveled so far.

The two met at Auburn University at the St. Michael’s Catholic Student Center. Their story begins like a movie: post-Adoration introductions, missed philanthropy events (ahem, Anthony), and long walks in the rain to class that led to lunch at a fraternity house. It turns out… they were dating before Mary even realized they were dating.

From Waffle House dates to cheering on Mary’s Miss Auburn campaign, from surviving long-distance to airport reunions and holiday countdowns… these two have already lived a love story that’s been tested and refined. Their wedding was the celebration of everything they’ve built across states, seasons, and time zones.

Getting Ready at Origin Hotel Austin

Anthony and Mary chose Origin Hotel in Austin for their getting-ready space, and it was chef’s kiss perfect. Chic, modern, and right in the heart of the city—it was a calm space filled with friends, family, and a quiet buzz of anticipation. Mary slipped into her dress surrounded by her bridesmaids in blue (with summer tones sprinkled in), while Anthony got ready nearby with his groomsmen, full of jokes and just the right amount of nerves.

Let me just say: the light in those rooms? Dreamy. The emotion? Tangible. I could’ve photographed their pre-ceremony joy for hours.

A Sacred Ceremony at Our Lady Maronite Catholic Church

The ceremony took place at Our Lady Maronite Catholic Church, a stunning, reverent space filled with tradition and tenderness. The way Anthony looked at Mary walking down that aisle—it was like time paused. Their Catholic faith is such a cornerstone of their love story, and it was beautifully woven into every part of the ceremony.

Their guests, many of whom had flown in from across the country, watched as they exchanged vows in the place where forever begins. And I watched, through my lens, as two lives became one—finally in the same city, finally on the same team, forever.

Elegant Reception at Etter-Harbin Alumni Center

After portraits, we headed to Etter-Harbin Alumni Center for their reception. Joyful energy and elegant summer color filled the room. Think: soft blues, pops of seasonal florals, and a venue with room for a good party.

And oh did this crowd know how to celebrate.

From T-Shirt Tosses to Pink Ponies: An Etter Harbin Wedding Done Right

Instead of a traditional bouquet toss, Anthony and Mary threw t-shirts into the crowd—and people went wild. I’m talking “try to buy one off another guest” wild. But the moment that brought the house down? When Pink Pony Club played and inflatable pink ponies hit the dance floor. Yes, you read that right. Inflatable. Pink. Ponies. It was pure, unfiltered joy. And honestly, it’s the kind of unexpected moment that makes a wedding feel unforgettable.

Their entire reception was exactly what they dreamed of: candid, happy, full of laughter and connection. You felt how deeply loved they are.

Anthony and Mary—thank you. Thank you for trusting me to document your day. Your love is gentle and strong, silly and sincere, faithful and fun. Your wedding wasn’t just about saying “I do,” it was about all the “we did it” moments that led to that day.

And to future couples? Don’t be afraid to make your day reflect you. Throw the t-shirts. Skip the garter. Bring on the pink ponies. Whatever you do, make it your own.

The Vendors that made it all happen:

Planning: Vanesa Co Events | Photo: Photos by Yaz | Getting Ready Venue: Origin Austin Hotel | Ceremony Venue: Our Lady’s Maronite Catholic Church | Reception Venue: Etter-Harbin Alumni Center | Catering: Rosemary’s Catering | DJ: DJ Nixx with DJ Nixx Entertainment | Florals: Verbena Floral Design | Hair + Makeup: Lola Beauty | Valet: Uptown Valet