Despite Austin’s notorious summer heat, Julia and Luca were determined to host their wedding on June 1 during Pride Month. After years of postponements due to the stress of finding inclusive vendors and ensuring a safe space for their guests, they finally booked a venue and later found us. Being known for our loud and proud inclusivity and our ability to attract likeminded vendors, they trusted us to navigate any challenges and produce an authentic day for them and their guests. That trust was never more important than when we discovered their originally booked venue—one they had already paid a deposit for—was owned by someone who was, let's just say...less than supportive of differing lifestyles. It took only one incident for our team to make it our mission to find them an alternate venue. With focus and a bit of serendipity, we secured Villa at the Vineyard, a stunning new venue, at a discounted rate. When we delivered the news to Julia and Luca, their tears of joy were the moment we knew this wedding was going to be something truly special.
before the ceremony: starting the day off with love
Julia and Luca’s wedding day was filled with moments that highlighted their deep love and the strength of their community. They began their day by exchanging heartfelt letters, a deeply personal and emotional start to the day. Though they opted against a traditional wedding party, they were surrounded by family, friends, and chosen family who brought unwavering support and infectious energy. For many queer couples, chosen family members—those who love you for who you are—are the ones who fill the roles that biological family may not, and this was beautifully apparent throughout the day.
Before the ceremony, Julia and Luca shared a quiet, intimate first look in the vineyard.
A first look has become increasingly popular over the years and is practically the new norm. This is when the couple sees each other for the first time before the ceremony, away from guests. It provides a private moment (often the only one you'll get all day), for you both to just soak in the love for each other and revel in the fact that you will be officially married in a matter of hours!
the ceremony: unique expressions of love
Julia and Luca’s ceremony was anything but traditional, and that’s what made it so perfect. Instead of a traditional flowerchild, they had three adult friends as “flower tossers.” These friends enthusiastically strolled down the aisle, baskets in hand, tossing petals with glee while sporting flower-filled beards. It was hilarious, heartwarming, and definitely everyone's favorite part before Julia and Luca made their way down the aisle.
Another unique touch was that Julia and Luca chose to walk down the aisle together, symbolizing their unity and partnership from the start.
cocktail hour: colorful and prideful
Cocktail hour was a vibrant celebration of love and identity. Pride flags adorned the space, and guests embraced the moment, using them for photos or draping them around their shoulders.
The diversity of expression was breathtaking. Nonbinary, transgender, gay, lesbian—every letter of the LGBTQIA+ family was represented that day, and the love and acceptance was absolutely incredible.
the reception: tex-mex, tree cakes, and tunes
For dinner, Julia and Luca leaned into their Austin roots and excited guests with the local favorite, Chuy's Tex-Mex. When it came to dessert, they honored Julia’s Lithuanian heritage with a stunning Raguolis cake. This traditional Lithuanian pastry, also known as a “tree cake,” features a hollow, tree-like structure with golden spikes, and it was as delicious as it was meaningful. To keep things authentic to themselves, they also offered an assortment of pies from Tiny Pies instead of a traditional wedding cake.
The reception quickly turned into a high-energy queer celebration. DJ Ian with Groove Line Productions curated the perfect playlist featuring icons like Madonna, Cher, and Lady Gaga. The dance floor became a safe haven of free expression, filled with love and laughter. Guests danced without fear of judgment, celebrating who they were and the couple they were there to honor.
Julia and Luca’s wedding wasn’t just a celebration of their love—it was a testament to the beauty of authenticity, community, and joy. Their wedding day was vibrant, meaningful, and overflowing with pride. It was a reminder that love, in all its forms, deserves to be celebrated loudly and joyfully. We were honored to help them craft a day that reflected their hearts so perfectly, and we’re ready to do the same for any couple looking for a planner who understands that love is love is love.
Photographer: Leah Muse Photography | Planner + Designer: Gardenia Weddings | Raguolis: Racine Bakery | Pies: Tiny Pies | Florals: Wild Vine Florals | Venue: Villa at the Vineyard
WRITTEN BY: Krystal Gardenia, Gardenia Weddings
