Houston Country Club /// #MrAndMrsMWendt /// Amber + Michael, the Locket

Amber and Michael’s wedding day was perfect in every way. The oppressive heat of Texas summer had been replaced with warm afternoons and cool evening breezes. With a golden sun setting over the steeples of St. Martin’s Episcopal and blanketing the greens of Houston Country Club, guests gathered outside to enjoy a cocktail hour serenaded by Houston’s famous Choraleers.

As the party transitioned into the Country Club’s oval ballroom, guests were surrounded by pink and gold light glowing from candles and chandeliers. At the entrance, a beautiful floral archway stretched up to the ceiling. Michael’s uncle said a prayer to bless the dinner and encouraged guests to truly drink in the evening and savor each conversation among all those who adore Amber and Michael. We are so glad we could be there to capture that moment so that Amber and Michael can be reminded of the support and love shared by all who gathered there.

[vimeo]https://vimeo.com/145423041[/vimeo]

Music by Frank Sinatra and Carl Carlton, licensed through SongFreedom.com

We first met with Amber to talk about her wedding many months ago. When we re-connected with her just before the wedding to go over each detail that was important to her, we were again reminded of what a sweet gift it is to document these celebrations. Her humor and excitement was evident as she described her grandmother’s heirloom jewelry that she would be wearing, the dresses created by Nardos Imam, and spending time with her family. When we asked if we should be watching for any surprises throughout the wedding day or unique activities, she informed us that her family would be singing a schnitzelbank. A schnitzelbank? In over 12 years of filming weddings, this was a new tradition for us! We were so excited. It is a german song similar to the 12 days of Christmas, and Amber informed us: “You’re supposed to grab a fresh drink before the singing gets started.” If you’ve never heard of this cute European tradition, you’ll have to check it out in the film.

 Nardos Imam designed and created all of the family's celebratory dresses – the bride’s wedding dress, her mother’s dress, and her grandmother’s dress - to perfection.   She attended the final bridal prep moments to make any final tailoring adjustments and ensure that the dresses were comfortable and that each ruffle and seam flowed correctly.  Each dress was truly a work of art; her commitment to detail and her kind spirit was a sweet addition to the afternoon. At the reception, Michael was excited to see the groom’s cake in the shape of an oil rig. Every moment was truly filled with delight as Amber and Michael looked at each detail in the ballroom.

 The Proposal: How did it happen? Amber and Michael share a love for traveling, cooking, and outdoor activities, which was evident in everything from their wedding invitations to their proposal story. Both families gathered at the Mueller’s ranch in the Bandera, Texas hill country for Thanksgiving 2014. Michael and Amber went on a walk Thanksgiving morning. They strolled down to what is known as “Lover’s Leap”. “Lover’s Leap” is a beautiful body of water with a one-of-a-kind waterfall flowing into it, so named by an old Indian tale. This was where Michael proposed. Michael and Amber walked back to the house to find everyone was already to celebrate. What a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Amber and Michael, Thank you for allowing us to create this wedding keepsake for you. Your smiles were so radiant, and your continual laughter was a reminder of what a special day this was. We’ll never forget that schnitzelbank song! Truly, The Mason Jar Team

Church - St. Martin's Episcopal Church Pre-Ceremony Events - The Houstonian @thehoustonianhotel Reception - Houston Country Club http://www.houstoncc.com/ Coordinator - Belle of the Ball @belleevents Decor - Todd Events @toddevents Photographer - Chris Bailey Photography @chrisbaileyphoto Band - Grady Gaines & The Texas Upsetters  Cocktail Music - The Choraleers