Houston Couple Opt for Destination Wedding in Italy // Taylor Golden Houston Destination Wedding Photographer

I met Brooke and Wiley at the Weddings in Houston I Do Soiree bridal show in 2016.  From the moment I saw them walking around, how in love they were, how affectionate they were, their genuine smiles...I said to myself..."they're mine".  We were instantly drawn to each other. A lot of couples don't consider what a HUGE part personality plays when selecting a photographer for your wedding day.  It's because we understood each other, got along, and shared the same values, that we captured such beautiful imagery.  In order for a couple to feel comfortable expressing their true relationship in front of you- they have to like you.  

It's also easy to decide on a photographer based on the images you see on their site, which are usually their top selections from the Houston weddings they have covered. But I suggest my couple choose based on the whole day.  It's easy to capture one AMAZING photo on a Houston wedding day...but how about 1700 amazing photos?  

Head to my facebook page to see their ENTIRE Italy wedding photos and judge for yourself.  And if you're thinking of doing a destination wedding- give me a call.  I take care of my clients, going above and beyond what is expected, because while you have to like me to spend your entire wedding day with me, I have to like you too :) It's the only way I work.

Ravello Events: Wedding planners Rosaria & Angela
Via Roma 5
84010 Ravello SA – Italia
Tel. 0039089857301
Web: www.ravelloevents.com
Email: info@ravelloevents.com
Facebook: facebook.com/ravelloevents
Instagram: ravello_events

Wedding Invites - Wedding Paper Divas (now called “The Wedding Shop” by shutterfly)
https://www.shutterfly.com/wedding-paper-divas/?CID=SEGOO.BRAND_WPD&gclid=CjwKCAjw3_HOBRBaEiwAvLBbol0n3RrNQQJ9LvCOg7QNC027ZsNnnE1d1_zJsbFbZnYyQU6X8ma62BoC-HEQAvD_BwE&esch=1

Yellow Rose Calligraphy (Etsy): Place cards, escort cards and table signs
https://www.etsy.com/shop/yrcalligraphy

Malafronte Flowers - Armando Malafronte
www.malafronte.com
Instagram: malafrontefiori

Brickhouse Bridal - Bride’s dress - Designer: Martina Liana
200 Valleywood Drive Ste. A300
Phone: 281-681-3430
The Woodlands, TX
77380www.brickhousebridal.com/blog
Instagram: brickhousebridal

Hair/Makeup - Jimena Puy
www.jimenapuy.com/
Sorrento, Italy
Instagram: sorentomakeup

Groom’s Tuxedo: Nordstrom - Hart Schaffner Marx New York
Groom’s Shoes: Christian Louboutin Houston Galleria - “loub4ever”
Bride’s Shoes: Saks Houston Galleria - Christian Louboutin “Pijonina 100 Flared Collar Pump”

Villa Maria/Villa Eva - Venue for reception dinner, food and decor
http://www.villa-eva.it/
Instagram: villamariaravello
 

Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Me Too // The Power of Forgiveness // Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden White

Warning. What you are about to read you may find emotionally disturbing.

This blog post ended up being very different from what I had originally planned...As many of you know this month is domestic violence awareness month-something that is very near and dear to my heart. To clarify, I have to share a bit of my past.

When I was 18 I married a man I hardly knew, why? Because he said he loved me and he treated me like a princess.  I had always wanted to be married as soon as I turned 18 so I could spend my entire life with my best friend.  I thought surely this was it, he said he loved me, and so he must.  Never did it cross my mind that perhaps people do not know what love really means...

Once we were married and moved halfway across the country to his hometown in the middle of nowhere Missouri, he turned into a different person, he became abusive in every way. He began his first affair 3 months after we married.  A year into it, the physical abuse began.  I was covered in giant multicolored bruises from my hips to my toes for an entire summer where he threw me into the shower and grabbed my legs and banged them side to side against the door.  I had teeth marks on my face for days where he bit my cheek, hand marks around my throat from where he tried to strangle me.

The saddest part is, I thought...well this must be normal.  I thought this because I had been aware of almost every woman in my family experiencing some kind of domestic abuse in their lives. Even though I had been raised as a Christian and in my heart knew it was wrong, the part of me that was ashamed at what a mistake I had made, ashamed that my husband didn't love me, that part also convinced me it must be normal.

A year later I eventually got out of the situation, got divorced at the age of 20, and thought I was safe.  Until my little sister started dating someone, someone who began to physically abuse her.  I lived hundreds of miles away and felt powerless.  How could this happen!? She saw what I went through, she knew it was wrong, and yet she is staying with this monster!?  The feeling of powerlessness and rage consumed me.  I had no way to protect her and couldn't grasp why this was happening.

I needed to find a way to release my emotions. And so, 12 years later, I present the images below.  This is the first time I am sharing these images.  For years I allowed myself to be shamed by another person into keeping my story silent.  They said people would view me as a victim, but I believe it shows the power of resilience in the human spirit. I listened to them then, but now, by the grace of God, I have the courage to share my story.

I wanted to show what it felt like to be abused. To be fighting for your life.  While I didn't have pictures of my physical bruises to share, I could share my emotional bruises.  In these photos I took myself back to the time when I was fighting for my life.  I think the images speak for themselves.  They are not pretty.

But the story doesn't end there.  I also wanted to show my emotional healing.  The second set of photos are me recovered, how I feel now.  I wanted to show the power of resilience, the power of God to heal, and the power of ... forgiveness.

I love this "Me Too" campaign, but the shear number of women I am connected to that I am finding out have been abused is heart breaking and over whelming.  I think sexual and domestic violence is a topic that gets swept under the rug far too often. It is a darkness that needs to be brought into light.  It needs to be spoken about, it needs to make people uncomfortable, IT NEEDS TO CHANGE.

All that being said, a place we can start that change is with forgiveness.  We can't change what happened to us, man, woman, or child. If you were abused- it happened, only God can heal that wound.  Acknowledge that pain, let it run its course, and then give it up to the ultimate Healer.  But if you don't forgive the person that hurt you, a part of you will always remain bruised.  

Forgiveness actually has healing powers.  Don't believe me? Just do a little research:

https://www.huffingtonpost.com/randy-kamen-gredinger-edd/forgiveness_b_2006882.html

This book was a big help to me by Desmond Tutu : https://www.amazon.com/Book-Forgiving-Fourfold-Healing-Ourselves/dp/0062203568

Also if you haven't seen the movie The Shack, it also teaches the power of forgiveness and healing.  Be sure you have a box of tissues handy.

I have had plenty of people hurt me in my life, physically, verbally, emotionally, psychologically. I have been cheated on, abandoned, lied to, hit- you name it.  It's easy to point the finger at them and say "you're a bad person". Yes what they did was wrong, but that doesn't mean they are evil.  You may not know their entire story.  What made them the way they are, maybe someone abused them and it's all they know?  Maybe THEY think this is normal too.  The thing is, we don't know.  It doesn't excuse their actions.  But understanding that inside them- there is a person in pain- it frees you from the pain they inflicted upon you.

So along with the #MeToo campaign, I would like to suggest a partnering campaign: 

 "#IForgiveYou."

There is so much hatred and division in the world today.  It's easy to get caught up talking about the problems, and believe me, I'm not saying they shouldn't be talked about! But at the same time, let's introduce solutions, and start with forgiveness. And by doing that...we can change the world.

To the person who hit me. I forgive you.

To the people who broke my heart. I forgive you.

To the people who abandoned me. I forgive you.

To the people who betrayed me.  I forgive you.

But most of all...with tears streaming down my face.  I forgive myself.

A self portrait of Pain

The healing power of forgiveness.

Houston Wedding Photographer Gives Harvey Victims Discount!

Where do I even start?  My husband Brian and I got married this past May in the backyard of our newly purchased home in Kingwood, TX.  It was our dream home, everything we were looking for, just needed some cosmetic updates.  After the wedding we began 3 months worth of updating our forever home.  In August we were wrapping up the finishing touches, getting all settled in and finally in a normal routine.

Image by Jerry Ghionis

And then Harvey happened. In just a few short hours our home went from high and dry...to having over 4 feet of water.  We had no time to escape, our cars were already submerged.  My family organized a rescue on jet skis, and we nearly died during our rescue.  Its a long story- an international photography magazine, Rangefinder, actually wrote about it.  You can read the story of our rescue here:

https://www.rangefinderonline.com/news-features/surviving-wrath-harvey-one-photographers-harrowing-tale/

Before

After

After our close brush with death, I have an entirely new appreciation for life. I'm so thankful God spared us that day and since then, the outpouring of love from fellow Texans and out of state strangers has been overwhelming.

During the next few days after Harvey we began receiving boxes of clothes, gift cards, and letters from strangers, friends, and family.  We had people show up at our door, unannounced, grab a hammer, and start demoing our home with us.  A boy scout troop from Dallas came down and starting bringing our trash to the curb.  Strangers drove by our home giving out water and pizzas.  People drove from Oklahoma to rescue our pets.  I can't talk about it without crying.  THIS is Texas, THIS is America, THIS is what the human race is about.  

After receiving so much love, I want to give back in whatever small way I can.  Because I am a Houston wedding photographer, I began thinking of all the poor brides out there planning their wedding that may have had their home destroyed in the flood. How that could completely change their wedding plans and budgets.  My heart goes out to all those impacted, I know how you feel.

Our sweet dog Piper being rescued by volunteers!

Any bride that locks in their 2017-2018 wedding by October 30th whose home was affected by the flood I am happy to give 25% OFF ANY WEDDING PACKAGE.  I've never discounted my packages this much and never will unless God forbid another Harvey situation happens.  I wish I were a millionaire and could do these weddings for free, but like so many other people in Houston, we didn't have flood insurance.  

Piper safe at last

I am praying for all Houstonians and now Floridians affected by the storm.  We've been so fortunate to have other companies like Apple and Wayfair discount their prices to help us replace items we lost in the storm.  Every little bit helps, and I want to be part of helping others as well. I encourage all photographers and small business owners out there in the area to do what you can to help those impacted by the storm. 

In the meantime my business is still operational- you just may be meeting with me in the 2nd floor of my home...which looks great! Just pardon the dust on the first floor ;)

We're all in this together, and together we are strong. Together we are Houston Strong!

Waiting for our rescue!

The Importance of Family Photos // Houston Family Photographer Taylor Golden White

Do you really need to update your Houston family pictures EVERY year?

I hear a lot of families ask this question.  They say it seems like overkill, or what am I going to do with all these pictures? While of course it IS a self-serving statement to confirm you should update your Houston family pictures each year, it also holds true for several reasons.

1.  If you have kids, THEY GROW SO FAST!  The last two years I have had the joy of documenting my nephew.  Getting to see him take his first steps, speak his first words...well if you are a parent- you get where I'm going.  Because they grow so fast and change so much I recommend getting family photos every 3-6months during their first year, and then once a year from 1-5, and then every other year from then on.

2.  It's not about creating a shrine of Houston family photos.  Of course you aren't going to display every picture from every year.  While yes you should enlarge one or two from each session, I suggest my clients rotate them around the house or even swap their enlargements seasonally. With all the rest of the photos from your session you may print some smaller sizes like 5x7s and 8x10s to put around the house or at the office or give to family as gifts...but what I like to do for my clients ( and they love it!) is create a coffee table book from each session.  These are smaller skinny books about 10x10 in size, with about 30 images in them- they are a great way to save your favorites, look back on that time, and share with friends and family that come to visit.  

What this will do over time as years pass by and your have your regular updated Houston family photo session, is that it will create a VOLUME of photo albums documenting your family.  Picture a shelf on a book case where along the spines of 10 books you read The White Family 2018, The White Family 2019, etc... 

3.  Its not about matching white button downs and khakis.  A true Houston family photographer should guide you not only on wardrobe, hair, and makeup, but also work with you to create a vision for your session and for your home decor that represents your Houston family.  

For example: I have a program I offer called "Client For Life" where for a one time fee, my families get a free photo session every year for the rest of my life.  Being that a session fee could run anywhere from $199-$399 depending on the time of year and day of the week, this quickly saves families a pretty penny, especially if you are of the mindset of documenting your family every year.  It also ensures we actually do the Houston family session every year :) While life often gets in the way, I'll be the one reaching out and making sure this session happens for you.

One of my Houston wedding couples with 3 adorable little girls recently added this to their wedding package.  Immediately we began bouncing ideas off each other for sessions each year.   One idea was- their family has property on a river in Texas where they love to go fly-fishing.  AWESOME! Because I don't charge for travel, this is something all my families can take advantage of- planning their sessions out each year in a different location.  The vision I painted for my couple was mom and dad fly fishing on the river, and the 3 little girls floating in inner tubes past them all while I'm shooting along the river bank.

Does that sound like a typical family photo to you?  I sure hope not! My goal is to create art, not cheesy matchy-matchy portraits.

4. Everyone these days THINKS they want all their images on a CD.  Ok great, then what.  Do you every go through your digital images and enjoy and relive them?  More than likely the answer is no, they are forgotten unless you post them on Facebook and your daily "memories" feature pops up.

Images are meant to be printed, displayed, archived.  That is the goal of a true professional Houston photographer.  

When you look back over the years at your collection of Houston family photos- do you think you would regret investing your time and money in creating and documenting those memories.  I can assure you - you wouldn't.  But now flip the questions, looking back over the years do you think you would regret not having your son or daughter captured when they were 6 years old and that adorable gap in their teeth, without a care in the world? I guarantee you would.

Mention this article for a discount on the Client For Life program!

Houston Photographer, Houston Wedding Photographer, Destination Wedding Photographer, Houston Corporate Photographer, Houston Baby Photographer, Houston Headshot Photographer, Kingwood Headshot Photographer, Kingwood Family Photographer, Kingwood Corporate Photographer

Ryan + Alex's Engagement // Houston Wedding Photography Golden White

Is it worth it to attend Houston bridal shows?  

You tell me.  I drew Ryan and Alex's names in a drawing for a free Houston engagement session and 11x16 at the I Do Soiree bridal show hosted by Weddings in Houston Magazine last fall and recently photographed their shoot in downtown Houston.  We had an absolute blast and ended up trespassing in every location we selected which kind of added to the fun, but more importantly their pictures are so unique! I've yet to see these locations used and because they were so fun and adventurous I knew they would be down for just about anything :)

We started at Houston's Old City Hall- I've been dreaming of capturing this image for the longest time, we went after hours so there were hardly any people around and were able to nail the shot before getting chased off.  After that we crossed the street to One Shell Plaza- again love the architecture of this building but have never been able to capture it. Ryan had the awesome idea for them to dance, and from there- well you can see the magic for yourself!

From there we walked a block or two and found a parking garage with an open door to the 10 flights of stairs that led to the roof. Like I said they were down for anything, so we began our hike up the stairs, in the Texas summer heat, outside, carrying gear and champagne.  Once we got to the top and cooled down a bit we started to set up another shot Ryan and Alex had in mind.  They wanted to pop a champagne bottle and capture the fizz and excitement. I positioned them with some of the beautiful Houston skyline sunset behind them and THEN...#fail.  The bottle had gotten so jostled on our climb up the stairs that the cork just sort of came out unexpectedly...no fizz...no excitement...but some pretty funny reactions :) 

We were able to laugh off the failed champagne incident and wrap up the shoot on this amazing rooftop just before getting kicked out by the sweetest security lady!

So you tell me, is it worth it to attend Houston bridal shows?  I think you know how Ryan and Alex would answer.

Taylor Golden, Houston Weddings,  Golden White, Golden White Weddings, Taylor Golden White, Golden White Photography, Golden White Wedding Photography Houston Wedding Photographer, Houston Wedding Photography, HTX Photographer, HTX Weddings, Houston Texas, Texas, HTX, Houston bride, Weddings in Houston, destination wedding, destination wedding photographer, destination wedding photography, wedding photo inspiration

Allison + Henry // Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

Yesterday I had the opportunity to document a sweet family's union!  Allison and Henry created their day to revolve around the most important thing- family.  With their three sweet girls, they wed at Houston church; St. Francis Episcopal Church and followed up with an intimate party of friends and relatives at a family property located on Houston golf course; Royal Oaks Golf Course. From their girls walking them down the aisle to joining them for their first dance to "You Are My Sunshine", this beautiful day was completely focused on the love of this gorgeous family.  I am so happy to have been a part of it and can't wait to finish editing all the wonderful moments we captured for this Houston Wedding! Congrats!

Photographers | Taylor Golden and Eri Reyna

Ceremony | St. Francis Episcopal Church

Reception | Family home on Royal Oaks Golf Course

Dress | Bhldn

Shoes | Badgley Mischka

Jewelry | Custom made by Eklektic Jewelry

Boots | Lucchese

Suit | Mundo

Taylor Golden, Houston Weddings,  Houston Wedding Photographer, Houston Wedding Photography, HTX Photographer, HTX Weddings, ATX Weddings, Austin Photographer, Houston Texas, Texas, HTX, ATX, Houston bride, Weddings in Houston, destination wedding, destination wedding photographer, destination wedding photography, wedding photo inspiration

2017 European Trip! // Taylor Golden // Houston Landscape Photographer

It seems as though we (my boyfriend and I) got back months ago from this trip of a lifetime!  We flew into Paris, explored the entire city and walked close to 100 miles.  From there we took a train to Lausanne, Switzerland which lies on Lake Geneva.  It was so beautiful in Lausanne, the city is covered in steep hills, but we had to walk down to the lake before taking the next train to Zermatt, Switzerland.  The walk down was easy- 2 miles downhill and the lake was glassy and calm that chilly morning. As we were taking pictures we curiously stared at the clouds in front of us on the other side of the lake, as the clouds began to move we saw mountains peaking out and they were massive!  The entire lake was surrounding by beautiful snow capped mountains, I would so love to come back on a sunny day and shoot here again!

The hike back to our hotel was another story...2 miles...all uphill.  We huffed and puffed, tried desperately to catch a bus or a taxi, but in the end we stumbled upon some of the yummiest pastries in the little cobblestone town center.  A few hours later we caught the train from Lausanne to Zermatt, which is one of the most famous skiing towns in Europe!  Zermatt is a walking only city, no cars allowed, and is settled in a valley surrounded by mountains including the famous Matterhorn-which we were lucky enough to catch a glimpse of through the clouds!

That night we took in some of the local food and beer ( brewed right in town!) then strolled around Zermatt until we could no longer keep warm and headed to our hotel for the night.  

The next morning was the day I had been l had been looking forward to the entire trip, we were checking off a BIG bucket list item- taking the Glacier Express train through the Swiss Alps! It was an 8 hour train ride that dropped us off in St. Moritz, Switzerland-where is just so happened the The 2017 FIS Alpine World Ski Championships were taking place!  The train ride was more beautiful than I could have ever imagined.  The train winded through the mountains, which were covered in snow, and passed the most adorable towns- all of which had a tiny church with a very tall steeple- something off of a postcard!  I wished we could have stopped to take pictures along the way, but I had to shoot from inside the glass panoramic train instead.  A lot of my images had glare from the windows- but I did manage to capture some of the majestic ride!

From St. Moritz we rented a car and drove to Innsbruck Austria, we arrived at our Airbnb and immediately left because the listing turned out to be very deceiving and instead of staying in a "bright sunny apartment" we were instead set up in a smoke infested brothel!  Long story short we ended up at a hotel near the airport while I battled Airbnb for a refund.  We explored Innsbruck for a day and decided the next day to go ahead and drive to Hallstatt and spend a few more days there instead of Innsbruck.  On our way there we stopped at Stubaier Glacier-now THIS was another one of my favorite experiences!

We took the lift up with all the skiers to the top of the mountain ( over 3200 meters high) and then hiked to the very tip top point.  I've never been so cold in my life, I actually started becoming concerned about getting frost bite!  But at the top you were able to see all the mountain peaks with the clouds hovering just below.  It was breathtaking, were only able to absorb it for a few minutes before we had to hike back down because I could no longer feel my fingers to push the buttons on my camera!  From there we hiked all over the mountain and found our way inside the glacier and then continued our drive to Hallstatt. 

Hallstatt was one of my favorite places, a city built on the lake with an adorable chapel jutting out over the water.  I had been there before, but only for a few hours.  We drove in and found this hotel right on the water, it was so beautiful!! We were exhausted from hiking the glacier so we went to the hotel restaurant downstairs and ordered our wine and fish. As I was coming back from the bathroom I noticed a small pouch and little piece of paper at my table setting.  The piece of paper was something I had gotten from a fortune cookie at dinner with Brian last year.  It read " Golden investment opportunities are arising".  Brian got down on one knee and proposed, there at dinner on lake Hallstatt after a day of hiking in the beautiful mountains...it couldn't have been more perfect!

The next day we met up with one of my oldest childhood friends, his wife and son, and spent the next few days exploring Salzburg before heading to Munich for our departure. Our last day we ate wienerschnitzel and drank giant beers at the Hofbräuhaus.  It was an amazing adventurous trip and I can't wait for our next adventure together...GETTING MARRIED!! 

Titanium Tequila!! // Taylor Golden // Houston Corporate Photographer

Tequila, a Rolls, a private jet, and a tour bus...

I was so honored to be hired by Titanium Tequila (my FAV tequila!) to put together a creative shoot to promote their insanely fast growth!  Titanium plans on doing a nationwide tour this year (hence the awesome tour bus!) to allow more thirsty luxury lovers to become addicted to the smooth sip worthy liqueur.  And can I just talk about the purple bottle for a minute? All you scotch and whiskey lovers, this line is aged in whiskey barrels...OMG it's amazing! I digress...

Owner, Robert Tijerina, and CEO Casey Hartle, built the brand wanting to offer people what they want most; "Attainable Luxury".  His tequila is just that, so smooth you can sip it, but at a price point where almost anyone can afford to spoil themselves with it.

Titanium is now available in 6 states and is adding more locations by the day...and fret not, Texas is in there! If you haven't tried it, be sure to order your next drink with Titanium Tequila, I promise you'll become an instant fan.  But until then, enjoy the pictures from our shoot and stay tuned for future images from the agave estate in Mexico, where all the delicious magic happens.  Cheers!

www.taylorgolden.com #taylorgolden #marketing #branding #photographer #destinationphotographer #houston #houstoncorporatephotographer #houstonheadshotphotographer #headshots #brandingideas #photographybranding #brandingidentity #gold #blackandgold #tequila #titanium

Houston Wedding Photographer | Creating an Heirloom

I recently put together a photo shoot of a bride and groom and being in need of jewelry for my shoot in Houston I reached out to Marco at Eklectic Jewelry Studio.  I noticed his designs were so unique, when I met with him to select some pieces for my wedding photo shoot I got to learn so much about his family's history and what they do!  Marco is a 3rd generation jeweler and moved his family to Houston from Mexico.  He and his family only create one of a kind unique jewelry.  That means no one will ever have the same piece of jewelry as you- how cool is that!? 

He explained to how during a consultation with a client, lets say a future groom looking to design a unique engagement rind for his fiance, he gets to know them and incorporates their personalities into the jewelry.  He would ask about their relationship, the bride's personality, her taste, what is important to her, and incorporate all of this into a 100% unique engagement ring.  

This made me think of my great grandmother's wedding ring, that I wear almost daily!  Its so unique, I've never seen another ring like it, made of white sapphires and 14k gold.  I realized what Marco is doing is creating family heirlooms.  Unique pieces of art that will be passed down for generations- just like my imagery and wedding albums I create for my Houston wedding couples.

My great grandmother's wedding ring

Wouldn't you want your images and your jewelry to be representative of you? Wouldn't you want it to be so unique and memorable that it gets passed down through your family for generations? What kind of price would you put on a generational heirloom like that? 

When planning your wedding day- don't forget about the most important pieces, the ONLY pieces that will be left over and passed down after the day.  Your jewelry and your images. These are what will become family heirlooms, so don't take the decision lightly and if you have to tighten the budget in certain areas for your wedding day- choose areas that will live for that day only, and not for generations.  (self-serving statement I know!).

To see more of Marco's gorgeous work you can visit them at http://eklekticjewelrystudio.com/ contact@eklekticjewelrystudio.com. And be sure to tell them Taylor sent you!

Weddings in Houston | How to Get in Sync With Your Houston Wedding Photographer!

I am honored to be a wedding photographer and guest blogger for Weddings in Houston Magazine! Here is a teaser to a recent article, check out the link below for the full read!

http://houstonweddingblog.com/2016/10/guest-post-taylor-golden-on-getting-in-sync-with-your-wedding-photographer/

The Wedding Day

For the wedding day, most couples need 8-12 hours of coverage. Of course, every event is different, so be sure to work with your photographer and planner on your timeline. I typically suggest to my couples that they plan to have photography coverage start at about three hours before the ceremony to document the bride and groom getting ready. If the couple is doing a “first look,” then coverage typically starts five hours before the ceremony.

I like to break the day into five sections

• Bride Prep (1-1.5 hours)
• Groom Prep (1-1.5 hours)
• Ceremony (1-1.5 hours, includes family formals)
• Creatives (bridal party and bride/groom alone- 1.5 hours)
• Reception (3 hours)

Once the reception starts, you’ll typically need coverage for about 3 hours to document all of the important moments, including the cutting of the cake, dances, bouquet toss, etc. If you’re planning a dramatic exit, you’ll want to hire your photographer to stay through the very end of the wedding, as that image will be a great way to conclude your wedding album.

... See full article

Named Best Destination Wedding Photographer in the World by The Huffington Post!

I am honored to be stated as such by The Huffington Post!  To read the full article for some tips on selecting a destination wedding photographer, the link is below!

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/583338d3e4b0eaa5f14d48d1?timestamp=1479752075596

5 Questions to Ask Your Houston Wedding Photographer Before You Book

Weddings are once in a lifetime, but memories (and the photographs) are forever. That’s why you want to make sure the one decision that you don’t rush is choosing the right wedding photographer, but it can get tricky when you’re planning a destination wedding. Here’s 5 questions you need to ask wedding photographers before booking one from Taylor Golden, the best destination-wedding photographer in the world.

1. Is photography your full-time job?

“If [photography] is someone’s side job, then immediately you know that 1) they haven’t been in business long enough to make this their primary source of income or 2) they’re not that serious about it. In either of those scenarios, do you want that person to cover the most important day of your life?” said Golden.

2. Do your client’s photos look alike?

Don’t take the photographer’s word on this one. Review their portfolio on your own, and see whether or not the photographer is able to bring a unique touch to each session. Golden said, “Two clients’ images should never look the same, so even if I shoot my two clients in the same location, their pictures will not look at all similar. I’m choosing different angles, different sides of the building, different poses…I never want someone to look at their pictures and say ‘Oh that looks just like my friend’s picture.’”

This is important, especially because photography is so referral based. If you spend all this time and energy into making your wedding unique and special, you don’t want it to look like everyone else’s in photographs, because ultimately, that’s what everyone will remember.

3. How much time and travel are you willing to put in?

When it comes to planning anything for a wedding, ask for specifics. How much time and energy is your wedding photographer willing to put in? Is he or she willing to fly out for your engagement shoot? This is something that Golden does complimentary, because she wants to get to know each couple and get comfortable working with them before their big day.

4. How much international wedding experience do you have?

Photographing a wedding locally and internationally are two completely different endeavors. Do not assume the photographer and can just grab a camera and go. Instead, ask how much experience they have with international weddings.

“Whenever you go to the airport, if you have a bag full of digital camera equipment, you get flagged immediately. You have to be prepared for certain check-in procedures. You have to know the airline policies. Once you get to the airport, it’s too late. You have to be prepared ahead of time,” said Golden. “Last year I shot in 7 different countries, and each country is different and each airline is different. Before I go, I do my research.”

5. What do the deliverables look like?

“A true professional photographer will not just hand you a disc of images. As a true artist, our dream is to have our work realized, printed, hanging on the wall. You [should] get an album, and it shouldn’t be a coffee book ordered from just anywhere,” said Golden. This is so important to her that she actually offers her clients 40 different leathers to choose from for their album, which is the same leather that the White House uses for all their furniture. The paper that she uses is the same that the Guggenheim prints all of their exhibits on, so it’s heirloom quality.

Yes. By Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

As the holidays approach, it becomes easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle, but let's not forget the meaning behind these special days. 

My sister had a friend named Jamilyn Hull who tragically died in a car crash last year.  Jamilyn wasn't just a normal girl, she was exceptional. Though I never had the pleasure of meeting her myself, I have encountered several people who knew her and they all said the same thing...she was an angel.  Jamilyn dedicated her work to missions, she was kind and generous and also happened to be a photographer.  

The more I heard of Jamilyn the more intrigued I became, I watched her service on YouTube which was performed by my pastor Jeremy Foster and was touched at what I heard.  Jamilyn always said Yes.  If someone needed help, she said yes. If God called her to missions, she said yes. Jamilyn unbeknowingly started a movement with her death of Yes.  And now her mission carries on.

The Hull family worked with the Deborah Colton Gallery in Houston where Jamilyn worked to display her touching photographer from her mission trips to raise funds for the organizations she was so passionate about.  I was honored to be able to photograph the gallery opening with her family-who all subsequently had gotten "Yes." tattooed on their wrists. It was a touching, joyous, and tearful night as hundreds of people turned up to support Jamilyn's art and missions.

As a fellow artist, I am personally inspired at how Jamilyn used her passion and talent to change the world.  I am thankful for the opportunity to know her family, for her friendship with my sister, and for her contribution to this world.  

To see Jamilyn's story, watch her service, view her artwork, and to support the missions, visit her website below.

http://www.jamilynhull.com/

Custom Jewelry for Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden!

At my studio in Houston, TX I am to offer a luxury boutique experience for my clients, which means lavishing them with gifts and surprises whenever possible!  I believe in customer service above all things.  When shopping for one of the most important services (your Houston wedding photographer) for the most important day of your life (your wedding!) wouldn't you want to be treated extra special? 

When a bride and groom book me I like to surprise them with a few gifts, and this happens to be my newest pride and joy!  I discovered 1 Love Designs  through a friend recently and instantly became intrigued at what they had to offer.  Over drinks Angelique, the owner and creator, started asking me about my birthday and my personality, she then pulled some gorgeous bracelets off her wrist- explaining to me that they were REAL gemstones and certain gems assist different elements in a person's being.  For me, I am a Taurus, being very grounded and down to earth and a giant nature lover, she recommended sandalwood.

The conversation went on and on, until I decided I had to buy one just for me- Angelique custom made me a set based on my personality- this was SO much better than an Alex and Ani bracelet- this was 100% custom for ME.  And then I started thinking about how I would love for my brides to have these as well, and how they would make amazing bridesmaids gifts, and how I was going to get every woman in my family a custom bracelet, until it hit me...to create a custom bracelet just for my brides!

My design is made of real Black Onyx, Mother of Pearl, and Gold, here are what my bracelets mean:

Strength, Endurance, Harmony, Awareness | Love Links

Black onyx brings to light the need for self awareness. With it's ability to transcend, it is a stone of great transition, and allows the wearer a sense of oneness with self. When combined together with mother of pearl it aligns and aids in the vision and desire for a nurturing relationship, thus uniting the two together creates harmony, protection and a strong, loving union.

To all my future Houston brides, I can't wait to give you this token of appreciation for entrusting me to your day. 

To see more of 1 Love Designs bracelets or to have one custom made for you, a family member, or your bridal party; visit her etsy shop here and contact her to create a 100% unique piece that will never go out of style!

https://www.etsy.com/shop/1LoveDesignsCo

When it rains, it pours. Austin and Houston Based Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden.

I LOVE Texas hill country, who doesn't!? And I especially love Texas hill country weddings, the scenery is so dreamy and perfect!  But what do you do when it torrential downpours on your beautiful perfect setting!? You'd better have a plan B.  In this case, the inside of the venue was just as gorgeous as the outside and the couple was able to quickly change their plans and have a beautiful ceremony ( that doorway tho!).  Big thumbs up to Vista West Ranch in Dripping Springs on having options for every scenario!

Love Always Wins. Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden.

As I have relaunched my studio in a new market, I wanted people to get to know me, before they get to know me...know what I mean? :)   I've had the life of about 5 different people I think with all my experiences, both good and bad.  

I think you really get a sense for my personality in this video.  I am always happy and smiling, family is THE most important thing to me, and I believe in love everlasting.  There are a lot of photographers out there who enjoy photography just for the art of it- and there is nothing wrong with that.  I also love the art of photography, but even more than that, I love marriage, what it means, so much so, that I pray for every one of my couples' marriages.  I am personally invested not only in your day, but in your relationship.  

Love is the greatest, most beautiful thing we have in this world, and I want to show that love through my artwork.  I would love to meet you, hear your story, and document your unique love <3

You can see my video on my Why Me page http://www.taylorgolden.com/whyme/

or below!

In the Delivery Room with Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden!

As a photographer I get to work with people on the happiest days of their lives.  From weddings, to families, to a high school senior graduating.  Well this week I had the special honor of documenting the birth of baby Asher Maddox.  I had the opportunity to photograph this sweet couple's maternity session and knew they would be the cutest and best parents!

Paige is an all natural girl, she wanted only what was best for baby Asher so that meant no being induced and no epidural!  Paige was so calm and in control all the nurses thought she was medicated!  After going a few days past her delivery date Paige and Alden went to the hospital an hour after her water broke.  When they arrived they found out she was already dilated to 10cm and 1.5hours later, baby Asher was here!

Even though this is their first baby, Paige and Alden were pros, I only hope I am able to deliver my first baby as HALF as gracefully as these guys did!  Congratulations to this beautiful new family.  Love you guys!

THE Best Bridal Show in Houston! With Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden!

Phew! What a whirlwind this week was!  After prepping for months for Houston's most chic wedding show, the I Do Soiree, by Weddings in Houston Magazine, things are finally settling back to normal.  I had been looking forward to this show all year just by hearing details and seeing pictures from previous years of Houston, Texas Wedding showcase.  I knew I had to go all out with my booth so I had a custom metal sign made as well as matching metal easels to display my imagery which was printed on....metal :) 

I was blown away at the attention to detail and smooth flow of the nights events.  It was so great to network with all the other vendors involved, and I LOVED getting some quality time with my future brides!

I can't wait for next years show, but for now I think a massage and a glass of wine is in order.  Cheers!

Taylor

7 Must Have Photos on Your Big Day by Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden!

Click above to read my article on Weddings in Houston blog for the 7 must have shots from your Houston Texas wedding!

9.11.01 | Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden

A few years ago I had the honor of climbing to the top of the unfinished #FreedomTower.  With only a plastic fence to keep me from falling from the tallest building in the United States.  Being at #groundzero was incredibly moving, it is an experience I will never forget.  Getting to write my name on the spindle, and take these amazing pictures that will never get taken again now that the area is enclosed is something I will hold dear to me always.  #neverforget #USA #GodBlessAmerica

Photo Tips For Your Big Day by Houston Wedding Photographer Taylor Golden!

Click above to check out my article on the Weddings in Houston blog for photo tips on and after your big day for your Houston Texas Wedding!