About Austin
Austin has topped the list of the best places to live in America several times. It comes down to the city’s affordability, quality of life, and job prospects. The Texas capital also featured on Travel and Leisure's 2020 list of the nation's top 15 cities to visit. An array of outdoor activities are supported year-round thanks to the city's mild climate that is defined by about 300 sunny days.
Recognized as a hotbed for technology, Austin is prime grounds for innovation and startups. With several tech companies headquartered in the city, it earned the nickname "Silicon Hills." Everything is also supersized in Texas and it isn't any different in Austin; juicy barbecues and tasty Tex-Mex breakfasts are some of the city's favorites.
For these reasons and more, consider choosing an Austin wedding reception venue for your impending nuptials.
Wedding Reception Options in Austin
The wedding reception essentially serves as the icing on the cake when two people vow to spend the rest of their lives together. With friends and family gathered to witness the exchange, it's only natural to conclude the day with a grand celebration. The long list of wedding vendors in Austin waiting to offer a helping hand are just a phone call away.
- Equipment
Toasting the newlyweds is one of the traditions most receptions observe. These days, a technology aspect is part of the event, with slideshows capturing the bride and groom's special moments played before the toasts commence. Most wedding reception venues in Austin are decked out with screens for this specific purpose but it's still possible to outsource the equipment needed for outdoor functions.
- Catering
Texas is essentially the "Land of Meat," and food trucks are stationed just about everywhere offering a selection of excellent barbecues. A quick snapshot of the Austin food scene includes Ramen Tatsu-ya's tasty ramen, Torchy's Tacos delectable queso, and Dolce Neve's refreshing gelatos. It isn't that difficult to come up with a suitable wedding reception menu with such vast inspirations.
- Entertainment
The reason why Austin is dubbed the "Live Music Capital of the World" is that the city lives up to the expectation. The Austin City Limits and the South by South West festivals are prime examples of what defines the Texas capital's music scene. A visit to the city isn't complete without sampling some musical action. It starts at the airport when travelers are welcomed by live music and a dip in the Barton Springs punctuated with live music at a pecan grove comes highly recommended. Finding music for your wedding reception venue will be a breeze.
- Party Supplies
Whether you go with a DJ or live band for your reception; music is just one of the ways to create a specific mood for your reception. You want to amplify the tone with the right decorations and that's where Austin party supply stores will help. From the wedding invitations down to themed napkins for the tables; you can get it all in Austin.
- Photography
Photography is an important aspect of every event, and you also want to work with the best photographer in Austin to document your wedding bash. The special memories from the occasion will last a lifetime but photos encapsulate the key moments from the function.
Wedding Reception Companies in Austin
Most people envision walking down the aisle only once, and it's the reason they want to make it a grand celebration. Even if it's your second time going down to the altar; you want everything to flow seamlessly, and working with a wedding planner in Austin guarantees a stress-free experience.
- Austin Wedding Planners, LLC
Voted the Wedding Wire Couple's Choice for five years consecutively, Austin Wedding Planners, LLC has a strong track record organizing unforgettably unique events. They vow to carry your vision with care and in turn, produce the traditional, creative, or unconventional event you have in mind. The planner also connects you to the best Austin wedding reception venue, florists, DJs, and rental companies who can help you put together a wonderful day.
- Something To Celebrate
You are undoubtedly in great hands when collaborating with Something To Celebrate for your wedding reception. They take the word “professional” to the next level, with a $1 million commercial liability policy backing up the planning process. The team is detail-oriented and creates custom plans to suit the individual needs of each client.
- Pearl Events Austin
Pearl Events Austin is the right planner to transform your refined and embellished, simple and classic, or raw and edgy into reality. Their range of services includes organizing social and corporate events as well as weddings.
Pros and Cons of Wedding Receptions in Austin
Every city has wonderful things about it. Take a look at the pros and cons of having your wedding reception in Austin.
Advantages
- Weather
Austin experiences about 300 days of sunshine making it the ideal destination for outdoor gatherings, weddings included. The weather supports activities like taking a dip in the Lady Bird Lake located in South Congress or the Colorado River.
- The arts and music scene
Nothing shapes Austin's culture as much as the arts and music scene. There's always something going on in town, and the festivals, in particular, attract audiences from all around the world. Get ready for great wedding reception entertainment.
- Increasing diversity
The Texas capital attracts people from different ethnicities and demographics. The blend of cultures gives the city new perspectives while also enriching its culture.
- Gas is affordable
A vehicle is a necessity for Austin natives but the cost of operating a car in the city is more affordable compared to elsewhere. This bodes well for saving gas as you plan and prepare for the wedding.
- Great place to invest in property
The city keeps growing and in turn, the property market in Austin is strengthened. As long as the influx of newcomers descends on the Texas capital, it's a sound decision to invest in rental properties. More opportunities means more companies available for events.
Disadvantages
- Traffic is terrible
Besides having to rely on a vehicle to get around in Austin, traffic can become unbearable at times. The growing population has a hand in it and it also puts a strain on the available infrastructure. Keep traffic woes in mind as you choose a wedding reception venue.
- It's still a Texas city
While the city has made strides in fostering diversity, the slogan "keep Austin weird" prevails. Liberal views are still not universally accepted particularly when it comes to same-gender marriages and gun ownership.
- Not a sports-centric city
Austin isn't what you’d describe as a sports fan's stomping ground because it doesn't have a pro sports team to speak of in the first place. The city still has its unique sports culture with plenty of recreational opportunities on offer.
- Parking
A busy city means parking can be tough anywhere that business is booming. If your Austin wedding reception venue is in a busy location, be aware of the parking complexities.
- You'll need an air-conditioning system
The weather is pleasant for almost the entire year but the rising summer temperatures can get unbearable. An air conditioning system is necessary to make the wedding reception conditions indoors more comfortable.
Famous Locations in Austin
- Barton Springs Pool
Andrew Jackson Zilker, who is recognized as the city's earliest philanthropist, gifted the area's residents a 360-acre oasis better known as the Zilker Park. Located in downtown Austin, it houses the Zilker Botanical Garden, Zilker Hillside Theater, and the Barton Springs Pool. The spring-fed water body is a popular swimming spot that's topped off with an irresistible grassy hillside for sunbathing.
- Historic Scoot Inn
Considered the oldest bar in the state of Texas, the Historic Scoot Inn dates back to 1871. The landmark venue has since hosted an endless list of musical and private events. Located in East Austin, the venue has undergone aesthetic renovations through the years but still maintains its soulful character.
- Bullock Texas State Museum
The history and culture of Texas are in full display at the Bullock Texas State Museum. Most notably, that's where you'll find the Story of Texas exhibit which showcases artifacts capturing key moments defining the state's history. The museum also has an IMAX theater that plays newly released films as well as educational movies. Book a premier rooftop lounge in Austin nearby the Bullock Texas State Museum for extraordinary views of the city's skyline for your wedding reception.
