There is something undeniably sacred about a wedding day that feels both timeless and completely alive. When Carly and Ryan began planning their celebration, they envisioned a day that honored tradition while bursting with color, laughter, and genuine connection. Their vibrant spring wedding at The Junior League of Houston was exactly that — a beautiful testament to their love story and the legacy they are building together captured by Leslie Sotelo Photography.
From the moment the day began at the iconic Hotel ZaZa in the Museum District, there was a sense of peaceful anticipation in the air. Carly, radiant in her stunning lace A-line gown from Ivory Bridal Atelier, carried a breathtaking pastel bouquet designed by Flower Power Productions. The soft peaches, vibrant pinks, and delicate yellows perfectly mirrored the joyful energy of the morning. Every detail — from the powder blue velvet ring box holding her elegant oval diamond to the custom watercolor invitations by Katie & Co. — was chosen with such intentionality.
The ceremony itself took place on the lush, manicured grounds of The Junior League of Houston. As a Houston wedding photographer, I have seen many beautiful venues, but the classic brick architecture and towering oak trees of the Junior League provide an unmatched backdrop for a romantic, fine-art celebration. Flanked by towering floral arrangements on crisp white columns, Carly and Ryan exchanged their vows. The moment they looked at each other, the rest of the world seemed to fade away. It is always a profound blessing to witness two people enter into the covenant of marriage surrounded by the people who have shaped their lives.
Following the heartfelt ceremony, the celebration moved indoors for a reception that was nothing short of spectacular. The incredible team at Belle Events, led by Annie and Kate, transformed the ballroom into a vibrant, elegant space. Third Floor Strings provided a romantic atmosphere during cocktail hour, while Nick and the Hits kept the dance floor packed all night long. Between the stunning floral installations by Decor by Dulce and the classic, multi-tiered masterpiece from Susie’s Cakes, the evening was a feast for the senses.
As the night came to a close, Carly and Ryan made their grand exit, stepping into a vintage getaway car from Classic Cars Now. It was the perfect, cinematic end to a day that felt effortless and true to who they are. Being entrusted to capture a story like this is something I never take lightly. These photographs are more than just images from a single day; they are the beginning of a family’s legacy.
If you are planning your own celebration at The Junior League of Houston or dreaming of a wedding that feels this vibrant and alive, I would love to hear your story. Click here to connect with me and learn more about the Leslie Sotelo Photography experience.
The Incredible Vendor Team
Photography: Leslie Sotelo Photography (@lesliesotelophotography)
Venue: The Junior League of Houston (@juniorleagueofhouston)
Planning & Coordination: Belle Events (@belleevents, @annie_belleevents, @kate_belleevents)
Florals: Flower Power Productions (@flowerpowerproductions)
Decor & Rentals: Decor by Dulce (@decorbydulce)
Bridal Gown: Ivory Bridal Atelier (@ivorybridalatelier)
Hair & Makeup: Lovely Kind Beauty (@lovelykindbeauty)
Videography: Wakefield Films (@wakefield_films)
Cake: Susie’s Cakes (@susiescakes.houston)
Stationery & Paper Goods: Katie & Co. (@katieandcohouston)
Ceremony Music: Third Floor Strings (@thirdfloorstrings)
Reception Band: Nick and the Hits (@nickandthehits)
Getting Ready Location: Hotel ZaZa Museum District (@zazamuseumdistrict)
Transportation: Sam’s Limousine (@samslimousine) & Classic Cars Now (@classiccars_now)
