Desert-Chic Spring Wedding at Cactus Moon Lodge

When Alex and Ilana began planning their Austin wedding, they envisioned a laid-back, multi-day event. And from the moment I entered Cactus Moon Lodge, I knew the weekend would be perfect. Perched high on a hilltop just 30 miles outside of Austin, this is a retreat in the Hill Country. Wide-open skies and 24 acres of quiet, intentional space. Their wedding wasn’t about the production, it was about the experience.

Rehearsal dinner at Jester King outside of Austin, Texas

A couple at their wedding reception with their dogs, outside of Austin, Texas

They invited 100 guests to join them for their wedding weekend, which kicked off with a welcome party at Jester King. Then, the next day, the couple tied the knot surrounded by the beauty of the Hill Country at Cactus Moon Lodge. I had the honor of documenting both days, and I still think about the energy of that weekend: relaxed, grounded, and full of meaning.

Cactus Moon Lodge - Texas Hill Country Wedding Venue

Outdoor wedding ceremony at Cactus Moon Lodge

Map + Compass Photography - Texas Wedding Photographer

Neutral floral centerpiece with calla lilies and dried grass

Embracing Natural Beauty at Cactus Moon Lodge

Guided by their shared passion for architecture, Alex and Ilana planned a wedding that allowed the landscape, textures, and tones of Cactus Moon to shape the design. They worked with Silver Thistle Events to design an outdoor event that complemented the natural beauty of the Hill Country. Neutral-toned floral arrangements, organic textures, and touches of cactus green mirrored the surrounding landscape.

As an intimate wedding photographer, Cactus Moon Lodge is one of my favorite Hill Country wedding venues. It’s the perfect size for a small celebration, but leaves a big impression on guests! With lodging for 18, the resort-style venue is also ideal for destination weddings. And with no outside bookings allowed during your stay, you truly feel like the place is yours.

See Ellen and Danny’s wedding weekend for more Cactus Moon Lodge wedding inspiration.

Bride getting ready for her wedding at Cactus Moon Lodge

A rattan daybed with boho throw pillows at an outdoor wedding ceremony

Two brides kissing at their wedding ceremony

A Wedding That Felt Like Home

Although Alex and Ilana invited 100 guests to share in their special day, they wanted the celebration to feel as intimate as possible. They spent a relaxing morning getting ready with family and close friends inside the casitas at Cactus Moon Lodge. Then, they met outdoors for a first look and to read private vows to each other among the breathtaking Hill Country scenery.

The mid-afternoon ceremony was outdoors and used the natural backdrop of a large tree, which also provided shade to the brides as they exchanged vows. Ilana’s dog trotted alongside her down the aisle, and both pups joined us later for portraits. (Any day with dogs is a good one, if you ask me.)

The newlyweds and their guests dined on the breezeway of the main lodge. The family-style tables and sweeping views of the rolling hills combined to create an atmosphere that felt intimate, but not cramped. After the toasts, everyone convened in the courtyard for dancing! Fueled by the spirit of celebration and locally crafted sotol, the party continued into the night underneath the Texas stars.

Bridal portrait on film by Map + Compass Photography

A couple posing for wedding portraits with their dogs

Outdoor cocktail hour at a Cactus Moon Lodge wedding

A green drinks menu next to a white floral centerpiece at a Texas wedding

View from the balcony at Cactus Moon Lodge

Destination Wedding Photographer and Guide

What a delight it was to document Alex and Ilana’s wedding weekend at Jester King and Cactus Moon Lodge! It wasn’t about trends or a timeline packed to the brim. It was about honoring the journey they’ve been on and sharing that with the people who’ve walked alongside them. Ilana, an only child, had always imagined a wedding filled with friends who felt like family. That’s exactly what this weekend was.

I specialize in photographing multi-day weddings like theirs, and guiding my couples toward creating a wedding experience that feels true to them. If you resonate with that philosophy, let’s connect!

I had the privilege of recently reconnecting with Alex and Ilana to photograph them with their adorable son, Holden. Watching their story continue to unfold and being invited back to document this next chapter? It’s one of the greatest honors of what I do. Scroll down for a little glimpse into our session together!