LaToya + Darrius – Agave Real

Houston Wedding Photography – Agave Real:
Surrounded by features straight from nature, Agave Real captures the essence of a hidden treasure and tells a story with each corner turned. In one direction you’ll find natural stone walkways leading up to beautifully handcrafted doors. Take a stroll in a different direction to come upon a lovely cabana overlooking a pool described by the creators as “lagoon style”. LaToya + Darrius were among the first couples to get married at the newly established Agave Real, part of the Agave Estates family, and we could not have been more thrilled to capture some of the first images of this venue. We had so many great images to choose from, and with a couple as perfectly paired as LaToya + Darrius, it was hard to narrow down our selection. Let us know what you think of LaToya + Darrius’ wedding at Agave Real, located in Katy, with your comments below.

No detail is too small for us to capture!

Amazing colors that pop!

LaToya looked absolutely stunning on her wedding day.

Dolled up by the popular Thalio Beckham Makeup Artistry.

Darrius and the boys outside the beautiful Agave Real.

The flower girl takes her walk down the aisle.

Agave Real has stunning, natural features!

LaToya + Darrius were a great couple to work with.

Let's eat some cake!

A wonderful ending to a great day!

Something Blue

Houston Wedding Trends – Something Blue:
Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue. We all know this traditional rhyme, some even adding in the final line, “a sixpence in your shoe”. But what exactly does it all mean? Representing good luck in a marriage if all charms are carried down the aisle by the bride, this Old English phrase has been observed time and time again at so many weddings over the years. Our favorite line of the phrase and the most fun to capture in photographs? Something blue! We’ve gathered up a few of our favorite images to share of this tranquil color. From the simple and most delicate of details, to the boldest, deepest shade of blue, we’re sure you’ll find something to inspire your walk down the aisle! Let us know what you plan to carry as your something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue with your comments below.

Pin a little "Something Blue" to the inside of your dress for good luck

Add hints of blue throughout your details

This bride added a touch of blue to her toes

Wearing a blue garter belt is an easy and fun way to add the hue to your day

How about a blue wedding dress for something different!

Adding blue to your bouquet is a great touch

The most popular blue item!

Jill + Sam – Hotel Zaza

Houston Wedding Venue Review – Hotel Zaza:
Weddings are definitely a family affair. And there’s nothing more exciting to us than when we get to take part in multiple weddings from the same family. Set almost two years apart, we were so honored to photograph the second of two Kaplan sister weddings this past December at Hotel Zaza. A familiar face and vendor friend, Thalio Beckham Makeup Artistry, enhanced Jill’s bridal glow and dolled up all 10 of her lovely bridesmaids. With all the girls picture perfect, we quickly set to task of capturing all those fun pre-ceremony images. Of course this means getting an image of both Kaplan sisters together! Up next on our schedule was a ‘first glance’ moment between Jill + Sam before walking down the aisle. What an intense moment it was as they waited to turn the corner and see each other! Immediately following the ceremony, the room was flipped to showcase a white dance floor and beautiful uplighting for the reception. What an evening it was, filled with dancing, laughter and love! Check out the amazing pictures below and let us know what you think of Jill + Sam’s wedding at Hotel Zaza with your comments.

Working with one of our favorite makeup artist, Thalio Beckham

We had to show off Jill's amazing shoes!

The beautiful Kaplan sisters

Check out the amazing features of Hotel Zaza!

Jill + Sam anxiously wait to see each other

Seeing each other for the first time on their wedding day

Signing of the ketubah

Jill + Sam steal a glance during the ceremony

Dancing the night away

An eager crowd awaits the cake cutting

Jill + Sam make their exit from Hotel Zaza

Shanna + Jason – Historic Houston Heights

Houston Portrait Photography – Historic Houston Heights:

Hermann Park? Yeah, we’ve been there. Sam Houston Park? Been there, too. Discovery Green? Check! Never satisfied with the same ol’thing, we are constantly on the hunt for new and exciting locations to not only display our artistry but also places that will allow you as a couple to be yourself and show off your unique personalities. On a suggestion from Shanna + Jason, we ventured over to the Historic Houston Heights, located in northwest Houston, for their photo session. 19th Street in the Heights is known for its various shops that dot the pavement up and down the busy road. So how do we turn this traffic-filled location into a private set, allowing us to focus on Shanna + Jason? We take the sidewalk less traveled of course! Stepping off the main road and into a nearby alleyway, we were able to capture fun, playful images of Shanna + Jason that truly showed off their creative style. Let us know what you think of Shanna + Jason’s engagement session in the Historic Houston Heights with your comments below!

A brick wall is never just a brick wall

Taking a stroll with Shanna + Jason

We just had to show off Shanna's awesome boots! Wardrobe plays a key role in sessions.

A simple Houston alleyway turned into a dramatic backdrop

Detailed shot of Shanna's engagement ring

Capturing a playful moment between Shanna + Jason

Winner Announced

A big thanks to everyone who entered! The contest really got everyone here at evoke excited. If you didn’t win we hope you won’t be to disappointed to go ahead and save your date to keep your opportunity to use Evoke’s photography an videography services on your special day.

Wedding Giveaway

OK you have heard all about it. This Friday (July 16, 2010) EVOKE is going to give away a 5.5 Hour Traditional Wedding Photography package complete with Bridal Session, Engagement Session, Wedding Album, Image CD, and Reprint Credit. No joke, no strings attached, and no fine print. Here are the only rules:

1. No cash substitute
2. Your wedding must be in Houston
3. No change of your wedding date. (The date you registered with is the date you must keep.)
4. We might make up some other rules if we need to. (but probably not)

That is all not too bad. Right? If you have not signed up for the drawing, you may do so by clicking the Price Info at the top of this page. There you will find a video that explains more along with a form that you will use to enter.

The San Luis

Houston Wedding Venue Review – The San Luis:
When you think of the San Luis you think Luxurios, Spacious, Waterfront…CHECK. If you have ever dreamed of a water front wedding (indoors or out, your choice) the San Luis is one of the best in Galveston Texas. The Outdoor Gazebo of the San Luis is a great location and is a very short walk to the beach. We like to take the wedding party to the beach to have some fun with some different stuff.This also goes for those of you that get married indoors, in one of the Spectacular Ballrooms at the San Luis. We encourage you to schedule some time to do these photos….you will not be sad you did! We love to try new, unique photos….and the San Luis a great place to do so!! The San Luis is an outstanding choice for a wedding venue in Galveston Texas.

Star Fleet Yachts

Houston Wedding Venue Review – Star Fleet Yachts:
When you think of Star Fleet Yachts, you think, “Ok how many people can say I got married on a Yacht?” Now that is awesome! Almost as cool as being out on Star Fleet Yacht, a beautiful day on the water, look around and realize WOW! I am at work!! Ok, I know it’s not about us, but Star Fleet Yachts is a cool place to work!!! As a photographer it is such a unique venue and lends itself to some cool ideas. Of course there is Natural Light everywhere (which any photographer can appreciate) and many places on the beautiful Star Fleet Yachts to take pictures of a Newlywed couple. Your family and guests will love the part of the cruise where they get to throw beads to the Patrons on the Kemah boardwalk. It makes for some great photos too!

Hotel Zaza

Houston Wedding Venue Review – Hotel Zaza:
If you are looking for a swanky, stylish venue…..Hotel Zaza is the place. Hotel Zaza is located in one of Houston’s Hot Spots, The Museum district. The Decor of Hotel Zaza provides a number of places to take some truly unique photos. Swanky describes it best. How cool is it have the bride sit in a chic Zebra Chair and photograph the groom sitting at a Grand Piano? It is also fun to take the Bridal Party and couple in the streets outside of Hotel Zaza for some cool urban photos. The creative decor at Hotel Zaza can really make a photographer feel even more creative. The ideas are endless. You can really set yourself apart and show off your style with Hotel Zaza as you Venue Choice, another of Houston’s Greats! Man….it really is a Good thing to be getting married in Houston. Such great venues here!!

Hotel Galvez

Houston Wedding Venue Review – Hotel Galvez:
Hotel Galvez is an outstanding choice for a waterfront venue in Galveston Texas. The Historic Hotel has charm and a sophisticated style. The beautiful architecture, natural light and ocean view are just a few of the positives that we normally can only wish for individually. At Hotel Galvez, we get all three?….. We’ll take it. You will have the choice of tying the knot in the Gazebo outside Hotel Galvez or in one of the magnificent ballrooms. Either way you are only steps from the ocean. AND…. since we are so close to the ocean, we would like to take the wedding party to the beach to have some fun taking photos! Oh and of course we wouldn’t pass up the opportunity to take some beach photos outside the Hotel Galvez of the newlywed couple! Hotel Galvez is a great Venue choice!

The Admiral

The Admiral is a spectacular place for photos! Oh yea, and your wedding. The Admiral has floor to ceiling windows that provide a wonderful view of Clear Lake. Photographers get excited about having this much Natural Light!! Simply Beautiful. The gorgeous wood beams and cathedral ceilings at the Admiral create the elegance that most couples desire when choosing a wedding venue. It is the perfect solution to wanting to get married by a water view and having an elegant place for your guests to celebrate your marriage with you! We like to take a few minutes and take the Bride and Groom out on the deck for some sunset over water photos if we get the chance. The Admiral is a definite Thumbs up from us!

The Parador

Houston Wedding Venue Review – The Parador:
The Parador is a Historic building located in Houston’s Museum District and is a true work of Art! As artists we appreciate the Architecture and Design of the Parador’s unique Octagonal shape. This Mediterranean Style, historic building is a great place for Engagement, Bridal and Wedding photos. The two quaint outdoor gardens at the Parador are great for backgrounds and as Photographers, we love it! The gorgeous archways and uniqueness of the Parador is very much appreciated by us! Couples and their families can appreciate the privacy of having the Parador all to themselves for the evening. Whether you have an outdoor ceremony or choose to stay indoors at the Parador, your wedding will truly stand out. After all how many people can say they were married in an Octagon shaped, historic building? The Parador is the only one we know of and we are anxious to work here every time!

Rockefeller Hall

Houston Wedding Venue Review – Rockefeller Hall:
Rockefeller Hall is such a unique Venue! It is a famous Historic Building with hand carved ceilings and Cathedral Windows. The upper level of Rockefeller Hall looks down on the dance floor and is a cool aerial view for your guests (and a cool angle for the photographer). Guests can also watch the ceremony from above, what a unique perspective Rockefeller Hall offers!  It is such an intimate setting and is truly one of a kind. It is really cool to have an entire building dedicated to your Wedding Celebration. We like to go outside of Rockefeller Hall and get some cool, urban style shots (if that is something that you like) too. The Salon area where the Bride and her girls get ready at Rockefeller Hall is spacious and great for photos as well.

Courtyard at St. James

Houston Wedding Venue Review – The Courtyard at St. James:
The Courtyard at St. James is an Old New Orleans style, simple yet elegant venue. The Wrought Iron gates and perfect landscaping at the Courtyard at St. James make a great setting for photos! The problem is not that we can’t find a place to take a photo, the problem is there are endless places and how long can we drag you around the location before you start getting sick of us!  The Large beautiful windows, chandeliers and gorgeous French doors at the Courtyard at St. James are just a few of the reasons we (and lots of couples) say that the Courtyard is a great choice!

Briscoe Manor

Houston Wedding Venue Review – Briscoe Manor:
When we hear the name, Briscoe Manor, we automatically think, “Welcome to Texas!!” Briscoe Manor is the perfect mixture of Texas and Elegance! The property has a Rustic Charm that cannot be duplicated. A photographer could get lost on the many acres of incredible landscape at Briscoe Manor. At some point you may have to stop us because we could photograph for days out here!  Briscoe Manor has endless possibilities for backgrounds from the lake, the outdoor gazebo, the limestone chapel and much more! Engagement, Bridal and Wedding photos at Briscoe Manor allow for many opportunities to get a lot of unique and creative images. Would you like a photo with a Longhorn in the background? No problem. How about a photo with the two of you sitting in Rocking Chairs near a gorgeous lake? Briscoe Manor’s got it. We would say that the designers of Briscoe Manor get a big “Yee Haw” from us!

Ashton Gardens

Houston Wedding Venue Review – Ashton Gardens:
Ashton Gardens is a great venue! As photographers it is always a relief to go to a Venue that is as gorgeous as Ashton Gardens! The glass enclosed chapel of Ashton Gardens is tucked away in a private Forest Area and is one of EVOKE’s favorite places to photograph! It is always nice to photograph at a venue that has many nice options for backgrounds like Ashton Gardens does. The suites that the Bride and Groom get ready in are really nice and believe it or not, this is not always the case. It’s nice to do getting ready shots at Ashton Gardens and not have to worry about avoiding some ugly wall. There are many options for the Bride and Grooms formal pictures, inside and out of Ashton Gardens. Definite Bonus! As if the beauty of Ashton Gardens is not enough, the staff makes it very easy for us to do what we do and this only makes the experience for couples that much better. EVOKE gives Ashton Gardens a definite Thumbs up!

Trying to find the perfect photographer?

Okay, so some of you ladies may have seen the recent Google Ad during the past Super Bowl in between beer and potatoes chip bites. I was touched by it and couldn’t resist doing one ourselves. And we thought, we would have a little fun at EVOKE too.

Planning your wedding is definitely exciting and fun. Finding the perfect dress that makes you look stunning, the perfect cake that is not only delicious but a work of art, and the ring that blings is full of thrills. Certainty, it can be daunting at times too. Invitations, favors, bridal showers, what color to make the ribbon. The tasks and the bills do seem to mount up fast.

Where do you start the research? Just Google it (so everyone says). It seems to be the answer to so much now a days. Who doesn’t love it and the power of the internet? It’s brought everything right to our fingertips in our own home in our PJs with your cup of coffee next to you.

At the same time, we have all been victim to the Goggle too. Searching for hours and hours and hours on end… Google happily suggests an endless number of results. Really 38,200,000 wedding photographer results???? Who can pick from that? And sometimes it feels like it’s not giving you any practical suggestions. Neither is that fiance of yours on the couch.

And the distractions Google offers. You start with great intentions, to find the perfect bridesmaid dress and you end up at the Cinnabon website. Right? Who knows how you got there, but now you are craving that cream cheese icing.

At the end, searching the internet, Google, or whatever you may use. It is helpful you can get ideas, good information, and visit vendors virtual shops. It can help narrow down and do some filtering for your mind. It is just one of the great tools that are available to help with your quest of wedding planning. So, Google away, just have a goal in mind when you start or you could end up at the day spa faster than you think.

I’ve been involved in the wedding industry in the Greater Houston area for almost 10 years now, planned my own wedding, been to 30+ Bridal Shows, 300+ Open Houses and seen somewhere in the ball park of oh a zillion wedding photos (give or take ten). And I know the details and finding the right vendors are important. So, if the EVOKE Team can be of assistance to you during your wedding planning adventure, don’t hesitate to give a call or visit, we are happy to share our wealth of wedding knowledge not just on photos and video, but on veils and bouquets too.

So, tell me what you think? Is this how you feel at the end of the day searching online for hours, hopping from website to website? Has Google been your friend or foe in your wedding planning?