Planning a wedding while living in two different countries sounds like a logistical nightmare, but Kate and Steve Van Grouw proved that love (and an amazing wedding planner) can conquer any distance. VOLARE Planning & Design absolutely saved the day with flawless coordination across continents. As Kate shared, “She is the absolute BEST! She helped my husband and I plan our dream wedding in the middle of the texas hillcountry while him and I were in two different countries completing our medical programs.” Talk about having the right team in your corner!
This dreamy Hill Country celebration came to life when the couple said “I do” on the banks of the Frio River at Frio Cañon, followed by a magical reception under the stars. The design was all about soft, dreamy pastels that felt perfectly at home in the natural setting. Kate’s bridesmaids looked absolutely stunning in silk dresses ranging from olive green and light green to light blue, coral, rust, and blue. And can we talk about that aisle? A Styled Collection lined the bride’s path with beautiful rugs, which Kate walked down barefoot, adding such an elegant yet natural touch to the riverside ceremony.
But here’s the moment that really made our hearts melt: before exchanging rings, Kate and Steve had a ring warming ceremony where their rings were held by every member of their wedding party and the first row of family. “We asked them to pray over our rings with love and intentions for our marriage,” Kate explained. “It was so special to have a couple minutes to look around at loved ones and savor the moment of having all of our people in one place.”
The tented reception was equally magical, with guests dancing to Groove Knight‘s incredible music and enjoying delicious fare from Cartewheels Catering. One of the most unique elements? The River Poetess created custom poems from guests to the couple throughout the evening! Guests would share special memories of Kate and Steve, and she’d transform those heartfelt stories into beautiful poems on the spot. This incredible gift from Kate’s father resulted in almost 50 personalized poems that Kate plans to frame as art for their first home together. How amazing is that keepsake?
Kate honored family tradition by wearing her sister-in-law’s veil, creating the perfect blend of something borrowed and something meaningful. When asked about her favorite moment of their outdoor wedding ceremony, Kate’s response says it all: “It was on the bank of the Frio river at golden hour. Need I say more?!”
Fashion Details: Bridal Gown – Wtoo by Watters from a&bé Bridal Shop Austin | Earrings – White Melisma | Necklace – The Silver Wren | Wedding Rings – Brilliant Earth | Groom’s Suite – Indochino
Other Local Vendors:
John David Weddings, Frio Cañon, The Vintage Bouquet, Zulys, Cartewheels Catering, Altar Elixir, Absolute Rentals, Groove Knight, The River Poetess, Madame Makeup And Hair, Backstory Backdrops
