Katelyn and Connor’s The Arlo Wedding was a vibrant July celebration at one of the most beautifully designed indoor wedding venues near Austin, Texas. It’s also proof that a Summer wedding in the Texas Hill Country does not just work, it thrives.
Quick snapshot: The Arlo is a 15,000-square-foot luxury wedding venue at 10700 Signal Hill in Dripping Springs, Texas, about 20 minutes from downtown Austin. It includes an all-white indoor ceremony chapel called Storie Hall, a 4,600-square-foot ballroom, and multiple indoor and outdoor event spaces. Mylah Renae is a wedding photographer in Austin, TX with over a decade of experience and 145+ five-star reviews who photographs weddings at The Arlo and throughout the Texas Hill Country.
Some weddings feel extra special before you even show up. This was one of them! Katelyn found me the same way a lot of my favorite clients do: she had already watched me work. I photographed her sister’s wedding years ago, and when it was time to plan her own, she didn’t hesitate to reach out to me. That is one of the greatest honors in this work. When a family trusts you with more than one chapter of their story, you show up with your whole heart. Every single time.
Katelyn and Connor chose The Arlo in Dripping Springs for their wedding day, and it was the right call from the very first detail to the cold spark exit. This post covers it all: the full story of their day in order, a deep dive into every space at The Arlo, answers to the most common questions couples ask about this venue, and everything you need to know if you are considering The Arlo for your own wedding. Let’s get into it.
Why The Arlo Wedding Venue Is the Answer to Every Summer Wedding Fear
Let’s talk about July in Texas. The heat is real, and I completely understand why couples cross Summer off the list before they even get started. But here is what Katelyn and Connor figured out: when your ceremony is inside an all-white indoor chapel with 18-foot windows and four-foot Northern Pine trusses, Summer stops being a problem and starts being a color palette.
Katelyn and Connor’s July wedding was colorful, vibrant, joyful, and completely comfortable. That is what a well-chosen indoor wedding venue near Austin makes possible, and The Arlo does it better than almost anywhere else I have photographed in this area. If you are still exploring your options, I put together a full guide to Austin wedding venues with indoor chapels worth knowing about.
The Details That Set the Tone for the Whole Day
Before anything else happened, I photographed the layflats. Katelyn’s details were personal and considered in a way that told you everything about her before she ever walked into the room. The invitation suite. A customized pink perfume bottle engraved with her new name and their wedding date. Her rings. Custom matchboxes. And fans printed with the day’s program, which were both adorable and incredibly practical for a July Texas wedding. Every single piece was intentional. Nothing felt like a filler detail. When a bride thinks this carefully about the small things, you know the whole day is going to be layered and beautiful, and Katelyn and Connor absolutely delivered on that.
The Arlo’s Lounge: Where the Wedding Day Started in the Bridal Suite
The day started in The Lounge, The Arlo’s 1,600-square-foot bridal suite inside the main building. Full beauty bar, statement fireplace, private dressing areas, en suite bathroom, and windows that look directly out over The Courtyard. It is the kind of space that makes you want to slow way down and stay in it.
Katelyn and her bridesmaids spent the early afternoon hours there in their pajamas, piled on the couches, laughing. Those getting-ready photos are some of my favorites from the entire day. There is something so tender about a bride in that unguarded moment before the world sees her, completely surrounded by the women who love her most. The Lounge at The Arlo is genuinely one of the most photographer-friendly bridal suites I have worked in. The light is consistent, the space is generous, and it never feels cramped no matter how many people are getting ready.
Four First Looks at The Arlo Wedding That Will Make You Cry (In the Best Way)
There were four first looks before Katelyn ever walked down the aisle. Four. And every single one deserves its own moment here.
Dad. Katelyn gave her father a tie with a baby photo of the two of them printed on it. He walked in, saw her in her gown, and then looked down at the tie. I do not have words for what his face did. I just kept shooting.
Flower girls. All of Katelyn’s nieces were her flowergirls, and she saw them before the ceremony. Little girls in their dresses, seeing their aunt in her wedding gown for the first time. One of the most precious things I have ever photographed. Full stop.
Bridesmaids. All of her besties cheering her on and hyping her up.
Grandma. Katelyn’s mom suggested this one, and it was worth every second. The tenderness between a grandmother and her granddaughter on her wedding day is something that photographs itself. As her Austin wedding photographer, I just had to be present and ready.
These are the moments that live in a family forever. I am so grateful I was there for all of them.
Sky Blue Bridesmaids Dresses at The Arlo and Why Every Bride Should Take This Approach
Katelyn’s bridesmaids wore sky blue, but here is the detail that made the photos sing: each dress was a completely different silhouette. Every woman wore something cut for her shape and her personality. This is the approach I wish every bride would take, and Katelyn’s girls are the case study in why.
When a bridesmaid feels comfortable and confident in what she is wearing, it shows. The energy shifts. The photos reflect it. Katelyn’s bridesmaids looked incredible, each in her own way, and the sky blue against the natural textures of The Arlo’s outdoor lawn spaces was exactly right. Soft pinks and blues in the florals tied it all together into a palette that felt vibrant and summery without trying too hard.
Before Katelyn walked down the aisle, her bridesmaids circled around her and prayed over her. There were a lot of tears. The kind that come when a room is full of love and everyone in it knows something important is happening.
The Arlo’s Storie Hall: The Indoor Wedding Chapel That Changes Everything for Summer Couples
This section is for every couple who has typed “Texas summer wedding too hot” into a search bar at 11pm. Storie Hall is your answer.
Storie Hall is The Arlo’s dedicated indoor ceremony space, and it is one of my favorite rooms in any Austin wedding venue to photograph a ceremony in. At 1,800 square feet, it feels both modern and grand at the same time. Four Northern Pine trusses line the ceiling. An 18-foot luxury window floods the room with the kind of natural light that flatters every gown, every floral palette, and every skin tone without any help from a flash. The entire room is white. It is one of those spaces that looks even better in person than it does in photos, which is saying something.
If you love the look of an indoor ceremony, you might also love this Canyonwood Ridge wedding inside Dripping Springs’ other Indoor Chapel with giant windows.
Katelyn and Connor exchanged their vows at the foot of a cross dressed in florals by Stems. Pinks and blues, lush and summery, set against that all-white interior. Storie Hall seats up to 200 guests and keeps everyone cool, comfortable, and fully present. For a July wedding in Texas, that is not a small thing.
The Arlo Courtyard Wedding Party Photos: 21 People and Every Single One Was a Delight
After the ceremony, we moved outside to The Courtyard for wedding party portraits and just married photos. Katelyn and Connor had 21 people in their wedding party plus the two of them. Twenty-three people to coordinate, and this is honestly one of the favorite group wedding party portraits I have ever taken.
The Courtyard at The Arlo is 1,500 square feet of evergreen lawn framed by mature patio trees and hand-crafted iron and glass doorways. It photographs beautifully from every angle, which is exactly what you need when you are working with a group that size. Everyone showed up joyful and ready to celebrate, and these portraits reflect it completely.
Cocktail Hour at The Arlo: Marquee Signs, Custom Cups, and Hill Country Views
While we finished up portraits, guests moved to The Lawn for cocktail hour. The Lawn is 2,400 square feet of outdoor space anchored by a feature gas fireplace, surrounded by trees and Hill Country views. Katelyn and Connor styled it so well: custom cups, a seating chart, lounge areas, and a glowing marquee sign lit up with their new last name. The detail level on this wedding was consistent from the very first layflat all the way through to the send-off, and cocktail hour was no exception.
Golden Hour on The Arlo’s West Terrace Stairs
When the light shifted, Katelyn and Connor slipped away with me for golden hour portraits on the outdoor stairs leading up to The West Terrace. The architecture of The Arlo gives you these incredible staircase moments, and the light on a July evening in Texas at golden hour is warm and glowy. These portraits are some of the most romantic images from the entire day.
The Arlo Ballroom Reception: Natural Light, Personalized Menus, and a Room Built to Celebrate
The Ballroom at The Arlo is one of the best reception spaces in any Austin wedding venue, and I will stand behind that without hesitation. It is 4,600 square feet with a 22-foot coffered ceiling and three large picture windows wrapping the space on three sides. The natural light that pours in is exceptional for photography. The room feels grand without feeling cold or cavernous. It just celebrates, naturally, without needing much help.
Each guest found their seat with a personalized menu card with their name on it. Small detail, big warmth.
The evening moved through special dances and a welcome from Katelyn’s dad, and then it was time for toasts. The Matron of Honor who stood up to speak about Katelyn was her sister, whose wedding I photographed years ago. She talked about her little sister, now a bride, and I stood behind my camera with a completely full heart knowing this family has trusted me to be a small part of two of the most important days of their lives. That kind of ongoing relationship with a family is the part of this work I treasure most.
Katelyn referenced this in her 5-star Google review after the wedding:
“Mylah is insanely talented and I would recommend her time and time again. I truly cannot say enough good things about her. She edits photos quickly, does a great job instructing everyone what to do to get the perfect shot, great communication, and such a sweet person! She did my sister’s wedding and my wedding and she was incredible in both!”
Katelyn – 5-star Google Review
That review means more to me than I can say. Being trusted across two of the most meaningful days in one family is something I do not take lightly, and I am so grateful Katelyn and Connor let me show up for them the way I did for her sister.
Cake, Cowboy Hats, CO2 Canons, and the Send-Off to End All Send-Offs
Brandon from Premier Entertainment took over, and the reception became exactly what a wedding dance floor should be. CO2 canons. Custom lighting. Katelyn and Connor’s names projected on the wall in glowing letters. The energy in that ballroom was completely electric.
Then the cowboy hats came out. Glow sticks followed. The midnight snack appeared and the party kept going strong.
When it was finally time to leave, Katelyn and Connor walked out through a cold spark exit on those same outdoor stairs, climbed into a vintage Bronco, and drove off while their loved ones cheered all around them.
I have photographed a lot of send-offs. Cold Sparks may be my favorite.
The Arlo Wedding Venue FAQ: Answers to Every Question Couples Ask
If you are researching The Arlo as a potential venue, this section is for you. These are the questions I hear most often from couples considering this space, answered as clearly as possible. The following FAQ answers are sourced directly from The Arlo’s website and confirmed at time of publishing. For the most current pricing, availability, and policies, always check with The Arlo team directly.
How much does it cost to get married at The Arlo?
Rental rates range from $5,500 to $14,500 depending on the day of the week and season. For the most up to date pricing, contact The Arlo. The investment varies based on your chosen day, so reaching out to their team is the fastest way to get an accurate number for your date.
How many guests can The Arlo accommodate?
The ballroom comfortably hosts up to 250 guests for the reception. Storie Hall specifically accommodates up to 200 seated guests for indoor ceremonies.
How much time do you get at The Arlo on your wedding day?
Your rental includes 12 hours of event time, one rehearsal hour based on availability, and one hour of vendor breakdown time, which is 14 total hours of property access. Early access starting as early as 6:00 am can be added for an additional fee.
What if it rains on our wedding day?
Storie Hall is the dedicated indoor ceremony chapel, and for summer couples especially, I recommend planning your ceremony inside from the start rather than treating it as a backup. The Arlo also has The Veranda and The West Terrace as covered outdoor options for light weather. Specific rain plans are discussed at the required final walkthrough with your planner and The Arlo team.
Is a wedding planner required at The Arlo?
Yes. The Arlo requires every couple to hire a third-party professional event planner or day-of coordinator. You can choose from their preferred vendor list or bring your own with advance approval.
Can we take engagement pictures or bridal portraits at The Arlo?
Yes. Booked wedding clients get special pricing on portrait sessions at the venue. Sessions are scheduled based on availability and clients should arrive with hair and makeup already completed.
Can we hold our rehearsal at The Arlo?
Yes, subject to availability. One rehearsal hour is included with your rental. Rehearsals can be scheduled up to 45 days before your event based on venue availability, or the included hour can be applied to your wedding day itself.
What is the parking situation at The Arlo?
The Arlo has approximately 120 on-site parking spaces for guests and vendors. For larger headcounts, third-party transportation is worth building into your plan.
Are sparklers allowed at The Arlo?
Yes, on concrete surfaces only and coordinated through your event planner. The outdoor staircase makes for a stunning spot for Cold Sparks through Big Dog Pyro.
Does The Arlo require security?
Yes. Like most Austin Wedding Venues, security services are required for your wedding and are arranged through the venue.
Every Space at The Arlo, Explained
For couples still getting familiar with the property, here is a quick breakdown of every space and what it is best used for.
The Ballroom — 4,600 sq ft. Three large picture windows, 22-foot coffered ceiling, neutral palette. Your main reception space, and one of the most light-filled reception rooms in the Austin area.
Storie Hall — 1,800 sq ft. Four Northern Pine trusses, 18-foot window, all-white interior, seats up to 200. The indoor ceremony chapel. Ideal for summer weddings, rain plans, or couples who simply want a beautifully lit indoor ceremony.
The Lounge — 1,600 sq ft. Full beauty bar, en suite bathroom, dressing room, statement fireplace, Courtyard views. The bridal getting-ready suite.
The Cottage — 1,500 sq ft. Two full bathrooms, a kitchen, lounge area. The groom’s suite, located a short walk from the main building.
The Courtyard — 1,500 sq ft. Evergreen astro-turfed lawn, iron and glass doorways, mature patio trees. Portrait sessions, cocktail hour, guest transitions.
The Lawn — 2,400 sq ft. Astro-turfed outdoor event space, feature gas fireplace, Hill Country backdrop. Cocktail hour, outdoor ceremonies, or evening lounge space.
The West Terrace — Covered outdoor space. Golden hour portrait sessions and grand exits. Those stairs are something.
The Veranda — Additional covered outdoor space for weather flexibility and guest flow.
Total: 15,000 square feet. Located at 10700 Signal Hill, Austin TX 78737. About 20 minutes from downtown Austin and the Austin-Bergstrom airport.
Vendor Spotlight
Florals: Stems — The flowers on this wedding were some of the best I have seen at The Arlo. Soft pinks and blues, lush and summery, designed with intention from the ceremony cross all the way through the reception tables. Stems absolutely delivered, and the photos speak for themselves.
DJ: Brandon with Premier Entertainment — CO2 canons, custom lighting, the couple’s names glowing on the wall. Brandon knows how to read a room and build energy throughout the night. If you are getting married at The Arlo and want a reception that people actually talk about, Premier Entertainment is worth every conversation.
About Mylah Renae, Austin Wedding Photographer
About the Author & Photographer: Mylah Renae
Mylah Renae is an Austin Wedding Photographer with over ten years experience photographing weddings full time in Austin and the Texas Hill Country. With over 145 five-star reviews on The Knot, wedding clients love her artistic vision, personalized storytelling, meticulous attention to detail, and crazy fast turnaround times. When not behind the camera, you’ll find her adventuring to new places with her husband, trying different Sourdough Recipes, or snuggling her velcro Great Dane.
She holds preferred vendor status at multiple Austin-area venues, including Canyonwood Ridge in Dripping Springs, and has photographed weddings at The Arlo and dozens of other venues across Central Texas.
Ready to Plan Your Own The Arlo Wedding?
If Katelyn and Connor’s day has you seriously thinking about The Arlo for your own wedding, let this be the confirmation you needed. Summer in Texas does not have to mean a compromise. With Storie Hall as your indoor wedding chapel and 15,000 square feet of beautiful spaces at your disposal, The Arlo gives you every option, every season, every weather scenario covered.
Want to see what another indoor ceremony looks like through my lens? Check out this Summer Wedding at HighPointe Estate I loved photographing.
And if you are looking for a wedding photographer in Austin TX who knows this venue, loves The Arlo wedding venue, and will show up for your family the same way she showed up “incredible in both” for Katelyn’s and her sister’s weddings, that is exactly what Mylah Renae does.
Mylah Renae Photography | Wedding Photographer in Austin, TX | Serving couples throughout Austin and the Texas Hill Country | 145+ five-star reviews | Preferred vendor at multiple Hill Country wedding venues
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