Planning a wedding is a whirlwind, but your actual wedding day shouldn’t feel like one. If you’re dreaming of a wedding that’s equal parts stylish, relaxed, and logistically smooth, Valerie and Taylor’s celebration at Hotel Magdalena is full of inspiration.
I’m Sydney Meyer, founder of In Ink Weddings. As an Austin wedding planner, I help couples bring their vision to life while staying present and stress-free. For Valerie and Taylor, I stepped in as their event manager to tie all the details together. From coordinating vendors to handling day-of logistics to fine-tuning decor, my goal was to make their wedding feel effortless, elegant, and entirely them.
In this blog, you’ll see how we pulled it off, from thoughtful planning to stylish touches that elevated the space. Whether you’re just starting your planning journey or looking for the final puzzle piece to bring it all together, I hope this wedding at Hotel Magdalena inspires you!
Bringing the Vision to Life at Hotel Magdalena
From the moment Valerie and Taylor booked me for event management, I knew their wedding day would be something special. They had already envisioned an intimate, modern garden-inspired celebration in the heart of Austin. My role was to help them bring it to life, while they were able to stay present throughout the day.
While the couple got ready off-site, I was at Hotel Magdalena, walking through the space and checking in with vendors. I made sure every detail was just right. From lighting of candles to the day’s flow, I worked behind the scenes to bring their vision to life.
I worked closely with their incredible vendor team to bring their Hotel Magdalena wedding to life. Thanks to these stellar vendors, everything reflected Valerie and Taylor’s personality and priorities beautifully.
The Vendor Team
- Photographer: Melissa Otto Photography
- Videographer: PhotoHouse Films
- Florist: Felipe the Florist
- Hair and Makeup Artist: Beauty By Jenni
As an Austin wedding planner, I specialize in creating space for couples to feel supported, not stressed. Valerie and Taylor didn’t have to worry about who was setting the table, cueing the music, or managing the timeline. They got to show up, take it all in, and be completely present with the people they love.
If you’re still building your Austin vendor team, don’t miss my blog on how to find wedding vendors you’ll love working with.
A Sweet First Look, Private Vows + South Congress Portraits
One of the most touching parts of the day? Valerie’s first look with her dad. These kinds of pauses in the day are what make a wedding feel unforgettable.
Shortly after, Valerie and Taylor met in a quiet corner of Hotel Magdalena to share their private vows. During this time, nerves melted away, and from that point on, they were fully in it together. As their planner, I always love when couples choose to do a first look, private vows, or some variation. It gives them the chance to slow down, connect, and really be with each other before the day gets rolling.
Afterward, they headed out for portraits along the streets of South Congress. The warm light, the relaxed energy, and their glow made for the dreamiest photos.
A Garden Ceremony at Hotel Magdalena
As guests arrived and settled into their seats, the ceremony space at Hotel Magdalena was already radiating charm. The modern blue chairs were one of my favorite design choices of the day, adding a fresh, unexpected pop of color that felt playful yet polished. Paired with the venue’s lush surroundings, the entire setup struck the perfect balance between laid-back and elevated.
From where I stood, tucked just behind the scenes, it was a joy to watch the space come to life. The natural light filtering in as Valerie and Taylor exchanged vows was such a beautiful moment to witness. It was the kind of ceremony and was simply beautiful because it was so them.
A Stylish Reception Under the Stars
As the sun set, the courtyard at Hotel Magdalena transformed into a warm, glowing reception space. String lights sparkled overhead, candles flickered on the tables, and the entire area buzzed with chatter.
Valerie and Taylor entered the celebration hand in hand, greeted by a wave of cheers from their favorite people. They moved right into their first dance, surrounded by friends, family, and the soft glow of Hotel Magdalena at night (seriously, this venue shines after dark!).
Their sweetheart table was one of my favorite design moments of the evening. Tucked into a cozy corner with delicate blooms and candlelight, it gave them a little breathing room amidst the party.
Every element of the evening reflected their personalities, from the signature espresso martinis to the easygoing flow of events. Guests lingered at tables, mingled under the trees, and danced like no one was watching.
And when it was time for their bubble exit? Pure joy. Valerie and Taylor laughed as they walked through the tunnel of bubbles, ending the night with that same magic they carried with them all day long.
It was one of those weddings you walk away from with a full heart, and I was so honored to be the one keeping it all running behind the scenes.
The Kind of Wedding That Stays With You
Valerie and Taylor’s wedding at Hotel Magdalena was the kind of celebration that lingers long after the last song ends. It was modern and charming, full of personality and the kind of day that just felt good from start to finish.
As their event manager, I had the honor of making sure that happened behind the scenes. From vendor coordination and timeline oversight to design setup and logistics, my goal was to take everything off their plate so they could be fully present.
That’s what I love most about weddings like this one. They’re not just beautiful; they’re personal. They tell a story. And at a venue like Hotel Magdalena, where the atmosphere is relaxed but full of character, there’s so much room to make the experience your own.
If you’re planning a celebration at Hotel Magdalena (or just dreaming about it), I put together a full guide with tips, inspiration, and must-know info. You can check it out here: A Hotel Magdalena Wedding | Everything You Need to Know from a Planner’s Perspective
And if you’re ready to bring your vision to life with a team that will support you every step of the way? I’d love to help! Let’s create a wedding day that feels seamless, joyful, and totally, completely you. Inquire here or see more real weddings and planning tips over on Instagram.
