Love, Your Way: A Minister’s Guide to Weddings Deep in the Heart of Texas

After over 20 years of joining hearts and hands in love, I’ve come to understand one very simple truth: love is limitless, and so are the ways we celebrate it.

I’m Reverend A. Benae Colbért, a legally ordained Interfaith minister and spiritual counselor based in the vibrant heart of Austin, Texas. Through Ceremonies For Life, I’ve been honored to officiate a rich tapestry of weddings and sacred ceremonies—traditional and non-traditional, secular and non-secular, in churches and under ancient oak trees, for couples of all identities and backgrounds.

Whether you dream of a rustic Hill Country micro-wedding or a moonlit elopement on the shores of Lake Travis, there is no wrong way to celebrate love here in Central Texas. I’m here to help guide you through all the ways to say “I do,” in the most meaningful way—your way.

Love is Limitless: All the Ways to Get Married in Austin & the Hill Country

Weddings today are as diverse as the people who create them. At Ceremonies For Life, I offer a variety of wedding ceremonies to reflect every love story. Here's a closer look at the different types of ceremonies I provide.

1. Traditional Weddings

These ceremonies often follow a familiar script—vows, rings, and blessings. They may be religious or spiritual. Whether held in a grand cathedral or a charming chapel in the Hill Country, traditional weddings carry the weight of history, family, and ritual. As an Interfaith minister, I can incorporate various religious traditions to honor the spiritual journeys of both partners.

2. Non-Traditional Ceremonies

Not everyone fits into the mold of “something old, something new.” Some of the most powerful weddings I’ve witnessed involve original vows, barefoot brides, or tree-planting rituals. Non-traditional weddings are perfect for couples seeking a personal, creative, or unconventional experience.

3. Secular Ceremonies

For couples who prefer to keep faith out of their ceremony, a secular wedding focuses on love, partnership, and mutual respect. These ceremonies are particularly popular in Austin’s progressive, inclusive community.

4. LGBTQ+ Weddings

Love is love—full stop. I have the deep privilege of officiating weddings for LGBTQ+ couples, celebrating their unions with the respect, joy, and dignity they deserve. Whether you’re planning a large celebration or a quiet courthouse alternative, you are welcomed and honored here.

5. Elopements

Sometimes love just can’t wait. Elopements can be deeply romantic and intimate, and Austin is full of stunning locations to escape together—metaphorically or literally. I’ve performed elopements at sunset on Mount Bonnell, in secret gardens, and even in living rooms with just the couple, a witness, and a bottle of champagne.

6. Micro-Weddings

A micro-wedding—usually with fewer than 30 guests—offers the intimacy of an elopement with more structure. They are ideal for couples who want a deeply personal ceremony without the fuss of a large guest list. Plus, they often open the door to more creative venues and budgets.

7. Commitment Ceremonies

Not every couple chooses legal marriage. Commitment ceremonies provide the same depth of love and intention without a legal binding. These are especially meaningful for couples whose cultural, personal, or legal reasons lead them down a different path.

8. Handfasting Ceremonies

Rooted in ancient Celtic tradition, handfasting is a symbolic “tying of the knot.” Hands are bound with ribbons or cords to represent the union. This ritual is particularly beautiful for Pagan, Wiccan, or earth-based spiritual weddings—or for anyone wanting a meaningful, nature-inspired element.

9. Civil Ceremonies

Sometimes, all a couple needs is a legally binding ceremony, short and sweet. Whether it's at the courthouse or a quick exchange under a tree at Zilker Park, I provide legally recognized ceremonies that meet Texas marriage requirements with no unnecessary fluff—unless you want it!

Austin & Hill Country Wedding Venues: Where Love Comes to Life

Now let’s discuss venues. Whether you want a mountaintop ceremony, a lakeside vow exchange, or an artsy urban celebration, Central Texas has an unmatched variety of backdrops. Here are some of my favorite venues and hidden gems.

1. The Allan House (Austin)

Nestled in downtown Austin, this historic Victorian mansion blends timeless charm with lush garden courtyards. It's perfect for couples looking for elegance without losing that cool Austin edge.

2. Chapel Dulcinea (Driftwood)

This free, open-air chapel overlooking the Hill Country is a dream for couples wanting a simple yet stunning ceremony. It is popular for elopements and intimate weddings.

3. Prospect House (Dripping Springs)

Modern, minimalist, and beautifully designed, Prospect House offers sweeping Hill Country views with an architectural twist. It's great for couples who love design and want a blank canvas for creativity.

4. The Vineyards at Chappel Lodge (Austin)

Set on 53 acres of vineyards and oak trees, this venue blends rustic natural beauty with elegant amenities. It’s ideal for larger celebrations and provides ample space for both the ceremony and the reception.

5. Greenhouse at Driftwood

This sustainable, tropical oasis feels like a secret garden tucked away in the Texas countryside. With lush greenery and natural light, it’s perfect for nature-loving couples.

6. Pecan Springs Ranch (Austin)

This venue gives you the best of both worlds: a serene outdoor ceremony space surrounded by pecan trees and a spacious indoor reception hall with Hill Country charm.

7. Sekrit Theater (East Austin)

A favorite for artistic souls, this eclectic venue features a vintage greenhouse, whimsical murals, and antique vibes. It’s perfect for couples wanting a one-of-a-kind experience.

8. Ma Maison (Dripping Springs)

Ma Maison brings French elegance to the Texas Hill Country. This luxurious venue is nestled among oak trees and wine country, adding a European touch.

9. Lake Travis & Mount Bonnell

For adventurous couples, I’ve officiated ceremonies overlooking Lake Travis at sunset and at the peak of Mount Bonnell. These public spaces are ideal for couples who appreciate natural beauty and low-key logistics.

10. Private Homes, Ranches, and Airbnbs

Some of the most heartfelt ceremonies I’ve led have taken place in backyards, family ranches, or private rentals. These spaces provide privacy, comfort, and a personal connection that’s hard to match.

Several locations in and around Austin offer free or low-cost options for weddings. Chapel Dulcinea is a popular choice, known as Austin's free wedding chapel. Additionally, parks like Butler Park, Mount Bonnell, and the Texas State Capitol grounds offer free or low-cost options for ceremonies.

Free Options

• Chapel Dulcinea - This open-air chapel in South Austin offers free weddings on certain days and time slots, welcoming donations. It's located near Dripping Springs and provides a stunning backdrop.

• Mount Bonnell - Known for its breathtaking views of Austin and Lake Austin, this spot is popular for intimate elopements but requires a short hike.

• Texas State Capitol - You can get married indoors or outdoors at the state capitol building with up to 75 guests for zero rental fees.

• Butler Park - This park provides a beautiful setting for a smaller ceremony, often used for elopements.

• Zilker Botanical Garden - The Zilker Botanical Garden provides a stunning backdrop for your wedding ceremony.

  
  

Low-Cost Options

Many parks require a small fee for a permit, but fees are typically less than $200.

• Landa Park Gazebo - This location provides a picture-perfect gazebo wedding with a lake-view backdrop.

• Wooldridge Square Park - Wooldridge Park is a downtown oasis with rolling green hills. It has a spacious pavilion ideal for gatherings of up to 30 guests.

• Mayfield Park - Mayfield Park offers 23 acres of historic buildings, picturesque cottages available for rentals, unique ponds covered in water lilies, and the beautiful peacocks for which the park is famous.

  
  

Creating Your Ceremony: What to Expect

When you work with me, our goal remains the same: to create a ceremony that honors your truth, love story, and values. This might mean blending spiritual traditions, writing your own vows, or honoring lost loved ones. It can even include your kids, pets, or community.

Here’s what I bring to the table:

• Customization: Every couple is unique, and so is every ceremony. We’ll collaborate on the words, tone, rituals, and flow that feel authentic to you.

• Inclusion: I welcome and affirm all identities, orientations, spiritual backgrounds, and family structures. You never have to justify your love to me.

• Guidance: Whether you’re eloping next weekend or planning a year out, I’ll help navigate the legal requirements, logistics, and emotional journey.

• Experience: With two decades of weddings behind me, I know how to maintain a grounded and meaningful ceremony—even when nerves run high or plans shift.

  
  

More Than Weddings: Ceremonies For Every Stage of Life

While weddings are the heart of my ministry, Ceremonies For Life encompasses all of life’s sacred transitions:

• Baptisms & Baby Blessings – Celebrating new life with joy and reverence.

• End-of-Life Ceremonies & Funerals – Honoring those who’ve passed with dignity and love.

• House Blessings & Invocations – Welcoming new beginnings with intention.

• Holiday Ceremonies – Creating sacred space during the seasons of the year.

• Last Rites – Providing comfort, closure, and peace in life’s final moments.

  
  

Life is a journey, and I walk with you through every chapter.

Love, Wherever and Whenever

In Austin and across the Hill Country, I’ve officiated ceremonies on mountaintops, boats, in vineyards, libraries, barns, and bookstores. I’ve married couples under the blazing summer sun and beside cozy fireplaces in winter. I’ve presided over spontaneous elopements and extravagant galas.

The common thread is always love. Love that defies convention. Love that heals. Love that dares to show up, over and over again.

So wherever you are on your journey—planning a big celebration, a secret elopement, or something in between—I’m here to remind you that your love matters. It deserves to be witnessed, honored, and celebrated in whatever way feels most true to you.

Let’s create something beautiful together.

With joy,

Rev. A. Benae Colbért

Ceremonies For Life | Austin, TX

Legally ordained. Spiritually grounded. Fully inclusive. I want to marry you!