Zeke + Kassy’s Austin hotel engagement session at Thompson Austin was everything I love about photographing couples in the city. From skyline views and moody cocktail lounges to their cowboy hats and sweet pup Aria, every detail felt like a reflection of their story and even more special since this is the very place where they’ll celebrate their wedding day.

Why Thompson Austin Was the Perfect Choice

I always say that an Austin hotel engagement session should feel like you. For Zeke + Kassy, Thompson Austin was the most natural choice. Kassy lived in the city for 14 years, so being downtown feels like home to her. The hotel itself has so many unique spaces where they could truly be themselves, each one reflecting a little piece of their story.

From Rooftop Views to Moody Cocktails

We started in the 15th Floor Lounge and Terrace, soaking in those incredible city views. It was the perfect spot to capture Austin’s skyline while keeping the focus on the two of them. The city backdrop felt like an extension of Kassy’s roots—urban, vibrant, and full of life.

Then we shifted into a moodier vibe at Tambien Mezcaleria. Zeke might be an outdoorsy country boy at heart, but when he’s in the city, he gravitates toward darker, more intimate spaces. This spot, with its craft cocktails and rich ambiance was the perfect reflection of his personality.

A Nod to Their First Big Adventure

One of my favorite parts of their story? Their first big vacation together was to Puerto Rico, and Kassy still lights up when she talks about seeing Zeke so happy by the beach. To honor that memory, we wandered into the Bayberry Room, which connects to the Arriba Abajo Rooftop Cantina and pool area. I could envision the fun candid photos as they laughed, splashed, and reminisced about those carefree island days. It was the perfect way to weave a piece of their history into their engagement story.

Aria + The Cowboy Hats

Of course, Aria couldn’t let her humans have all the spotlight. Their pup brought playful energy to every shot, whether it was a wagging tail or a little nuzzle. And let’s talk about those cowboy hats—such a simple detail, but one that tied in their Texas roots beautifully. Against the hotel’s sleek modern backdrop, they added just the right amount of personality.

Why This Session Felt So Them

The thing I loved most? Every space we stepped into felt intentional. Each corner of Thompson Austin told a story about who Zeke + Kassy are—individually and together. The rooftop views, the cozy cocktail lounge, the beachy rooftop cantina, even those little in-between moments with Aria… it all added up to photos that aren’t just beautiful, but deeply personal.

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Planning Your Own Austin Hotel Engagement Session?

If you’re dreaming of photos that feel elevated, authentic, and uniquely you, an engagement session at Thompson Austin might just be the perfect choice. From skyline terraces to moody cocktail lounges to rooftop cantinas, there’s a space here for every love story.