Romantic couple portrait during Carr Mansion wedding ceremony.

Hosted at Carr Mansion, Galveston’s only Michelin Key hotel, Alix and Ben’s celebration brought together just 30 of their closest loved ones for a wedding that was equal parts dramatic, artistic, and reflecting their personalities.

From the beginning, the vision was clear: moody winter jewel tones layered with autumnal touches, vintage influences, and a subtle gothic edge. Rather than pulling inspiration from wedding trends, we focused on creating an experience that felt uniquely theirs.

One of my favorite details? Paintings of their cats dressed in historical clothing were discreetly hung among Carr Mansion’s existing artwork for guests to discover throughout the evening. It was unexpected, playful, and perfectly representative of who they are as a couple.

The design leaned into rich velvets, candlelight, and layered florals in deep reds, blues, ochres, and warm caramel tones. Hannah of Wild Edges Studio created incredible floral installations, including a hand-painted ceremony backdrop that completely transformed the space into something immersive and theatrical.

Alix also wore a cathedral-length veil with black embroidered florals that tied beautifully into the overall aesthetic.

For intimate weddings, guest experience becomes even more important, and this 30-person wedding allowed everyone to slow down and truly enjoy the evening. Guests gathered around candlelit tables for an incredible multi-course dinner by Heirloom Catering while enjoying live music from a pianist and drummer duo from Flight of the Keys.

The entire evening felt intentional, warm, and unhurried.

Another personal touch we loved: instead of a traditional groom’s cake, Alix baked Ben’s favorite cheesecake herself.

It’s details like these that make intimate weddings so special. They’re not about doing less—they’re about making room for more of what matters.

Alix and Ben’s intimate Galveston wedding is a reminder that the most memorable celebrations aren’t built by following formulas or recreating someone else’s Pinterest board. They’re built by leaning into your personalities, embracing what you love, and creating an experience that could only belong to you.

And that’s exactly what this Carr Mansion wedding was: thoughtful, artistic, and entirely their own.