Jill + Ben

7.11.2022

Hidden River Ranch

2.26.22

Jill and Ben met in high school and have been together ever since! They went to A&M (whoop!) for college, and then they moved back to Austin after graduating. Both of them grew up with family ranches, so picking a venue in the hill country was a must! The couple even got engaged on Ben’s family ranch, then had a party at the ranch house to celebrate. Hidden River Ranch ended up being the perfect spot for them – it has unparalleled Texas views, and there is onsite lodging, so it was perfect for family and friends!

This wedding was very special because I (Tessa) have been able to see Jill & Ben grow together from the very beginning. I’ve known Ben since we were babies at church, and I was on the drill team with Jill in high school. My family is very close with both Ben and Jill’s families, so seeing their story go from high school crushes to marriage was such a treat!

When it came to the design, Jill knew that she wanted to incorporate color into the wedding, bringing some bright pops into the happy day. We ended up going with a tasteful design of pink and white flowers, and we brought in accents of blue with the incorporation of chinoiserie patterned vases. (Merveille)

In true Texas weather fashion, despite the week leading up to the wedding having been warm and cloudless, Jill and Ben’s special day ended up being cold and rainy. This, however, did not stop the party! We rolled with the punches, moving cocktail hour (PEJ Catering) to be on the venue’s patio that overlooks a beautiful pond, and gathered vendors to huddled around Jill as we took portraits outside (Anastasia Strate Photography). Nothing a few heaters and warm bodies couldn’t fix!

Doing a wedding for such a close friend is special for many reasons, but one of the main ones that stuck out to me was being immersed in the day’s emotion. I found myself tearing up during the first dances, and especially during Jill’s dad’s toast…and it takes a lot for me to cry at a wedding. The guests danced the night away to The Nightowls (the best band!), we paid homage to the Fightin’ Texas Aggies, and ended the night with a magical sparkler send off.

I might be biased, but Jill and Ben truly had the best guests at their wedding. Their families, the wedding party, and really everyone that attended were so delightful to be around. I’m so glad that these high school sweethearts finally tied the knot, and I’m beyond honored that they asked me to plan their wedding. It truly was such an amazing experience – love you both, Jill and Ben!!

XOXO,

Tessa