It was one of those warm, sticky June weekends in Houston where the air practically hugs you. I had the joy of spending the entire weekend with Jillian and Stuart at Boxwood Manor—photographing their rehearsal dinner, wedding, and all the little in-between moments. From the second I arrived, I could feel the unmistakable sense of Southern hospitality. Their families and friends welcomed me like I’d been part of the group for years. It’s rare to walk into a wedding weekend and feel instantly part of the story, but that’s just who these people are. And it made capturing their celebration feel even more meaningful.

Jill and Stuart have that kind of love that’s loud yet soft. They love each other so openly and unapologetically—you can’t help but root for them. They’re the couple who make space for everyone around them to feel included, cared for, and celebrated. Watching them together, you’d swear they were still in the first few weeks of falling in love, except now there’s a comfort, a rhythm. Their connection lit up every room they stepped into, and honestly, photographing them felt less and less like “work.”

A Boxwood Manor Wedding Ceremony

Boxwood Manor in Tomball, Texas, truly feels like it was built for days like this. Clean white siding, black-trimmed windows, and elegant touches everywhere you look—it’s modern and timeless. The moment you see it, you know your wedding photos are going to be crazy good.

The ceremony space is hard to do justice in words, but imagine a white, high-ceilinged chapel washed in light, with giant windows framing the trees outside. Rows of ghost chairs lined the aisle, leading to a beautiful floral altar. Jill and Stuart stood with sunlight filtering in, surrounded by their favorite people, to exchange vows. It was quietly magical.

A Party With Personality

After a quick hello in the reception and a few more sunset pics, Jill slipped away to change into a satin mini dress with pearl-strap heels. She looked radiant and ready to party! You think you’ve seen it all—until a tattoo artist rolls up to the reception. Jill and Stuart had a tiny tattoo station set up, and yes, even guests were lining up. It was so fun watching a bride get inked in her wedding dress.

What tied the whole day together was the intention woven into every detail, down to the personalized paper towels in the bathrooms. From start to finish, Jill and Stuart’s reception wasn’t about impressing people—it was about inviting them in. It was stylish, and every moment reflected the creative, full of life, and ‘down to get matching tattoos on their wedding night’ kind of people they are.

Texas Wedding Photographer | Wild Thistle Photo

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