Real Weddings at The 1850 Settlement: What Couples Loved Most
If you're considering tying the knot just outside San Antonio and want that magical blend of rustic charm and modern comfort, The 1850 Settlement in Bulverde, TX might be your dream venue. As a San Antonio wedding photographer duo, we've had the joy of capturing multiple weddings at this beautiful Hill Country location—and each time, it delivers something unforgettable.
This post is for couples who are planning a wedding that’s laid-back but beautiful, elevated but easy. Below, we’re sharing what real couples loved most about getting married at The 1850 Settlement, plus our tips from behind the lens to help you make the most of the space.
Why The 1850 Settlement Is a Local Favorite
The 1850 Settlement blends rustic elegance with wide-open Texas skies. Just 30 minutes north of San Antonio, it offers:
A shaded ceremony site under sprawling oak trees
A white barn with tons of natural light
Indoor/outdoor reception options
Freedom to choose your own vendors
Couples fall in love with the vibe instantly—it feels like you’re stepping into a secret garden where time slows down (but the dance floor doesn’t).
A Ceremony Space That Speaks for Itself
Under the Oaks, Love Feels Bigger
The outdoor ceremony site at The 1850 Settlement is shaded by massive oak trees that feel sacred. One bride told us, "I didn’t even want an arbor or floral arch—the trees were all the decoration I needed."
We couldn’t agree more. As San Antonio wedding photographers, we’ve seen hundreds of ceremony setups—but this one always makes us pause. The light through the branches creates this glowy, romantic atmosphere that’s incredible for skin tones in photos.
Photographer Tip:
Time your ceremony for later in the day—around golden hour. Not only is the light more flattering, but it also sets the tone for a stunning sunset during your portraits.
A Reception Space That Just Works
String Lights, Wide Smiles, and a Killer Dance Floor
The reception area at The 1850 Settlement blends indoors and outdoors seamlessly. The barn opens up to a lawn area lined with string lights, giving you a cozy but spacious feel. You can host dinner inside and dance under the stars or flip it.
Why Couples Love It:
There’s room to move and mingle without feeling crowded.
The layout keeps everyone connected—no one’s stuck in a back room.
You can keep it rustic or dress it up with modern decor.
A Venue That Feels Like Yours
Flexibility = Less Stress
One thing couples consistently mention: the staff at The 1850 Settlement is awesome. They’re responsive, calm, and incredibly easy to work with. They also allow outside vendors, which gives you the freedom to build your dream team without extra fees.
As photographers, we love working with the team here—they’re laid-back but super organized. That balance makes wedding days flow smoothly, and happy vendors = a better experience for you.
Couple Quote:
“We never felt rushed or micromanaged. They trusted our vision and helped bring it to life.”
It’s a Photographer’s Playground
Backdrops Around Every Corner
If you’re looking for a venue that’s photogenic from every angle, this is it. The barn, fields of wildflowers, shady trees, and quiet corners are a dream. We’ve done entire galleries without needing to leave the venue.
We’ll often pull our couples aside for sunset portraits beside the barn—there’s an open area that catches the warm light perfectly, or the rustic architecture can be included for a dreamy feel. Those shots? Frame-worthy every time.
Photographer Tip:
Build 15–20 minutes of golden hour into your timeline. It’s a break from the buzz and gives you two some quiet time (with dreamy photos as the bonus).
Real Couple Highlights: Favorite Moments at The 1850 Settlement
Amanda & Dustin
They planned their ceremony under the oaks with minimal decor—just a wooden pergola and some drapes. What made it special? The amazing sky that brought a dreamy atmosphere to the entire ceremony area.
Julie & Jared
As the sun dipped below the oaks, guests gathered around the fire pit with drinks in hand and and enjoyed the warmth. The crackling flames gave the evening a cozy, laid-back vibe. “It honestly felt like a family reunion under the stars,” they told us. “The venue let us do our thing—it was relaxed and real, just how we imagined it.”
Amanda’s Bridal Photos
Amanda’s bridal session at The 1850 Settlement ended with the kind of sunset you hope for but never expect. As the sky lit up in warm hues, we caught her standing near the rustic wagon with the ceremony site glowing softly in the background. The golden hour light wrapped around her like a veil, giving every photo this dreamy, storybook feel. It was one of those moments where everything—light, location, and emotion—just came together perfectly.
Tips for Planning Your Wedding at The 1850 Settlement
Keep the decor simple. The venue already has so much character.
Plan a slow morning. The getting-ready suites are peaceful and well-lit (great for detail shots and robe pics!).
Hire a DJ who knows how to balance indoor and outdoor sound. The open layout needs someone with good tech chops.
Sneak away during dinner for sunset portraits. Trust us—it’s worth it.
Is The 1850 Settlement Right for You?
If you’re looking for a venue that feels relaxed but elevated, beautiful but not overdone—this might be your perfect fit. Couples love that it’s close to San Antonio, while still feeling like a Hill Country escape.
As San Antonio wedding photographers, The 1850 Settlement is one of our favorite places to work. The light, the vibe, the people—it all comes together to make truly joyful wedding days.
Check out The 1850 Settlement or reach out—we’d love to help you dream up your day.
📸 Planning a San Antonio Wedding?
We’re Royce and Michelle, wedding photographers based just outside San Antonio. We specialize in capturing candid, emotional wedding stories across Texas and beyond. If you’re getting married at The 1850 Settlement, we’d love to photograph your day.
📩 [Let’s Chat] | 📍 San Antonio Wedding Photographer | 🎉 Real moments. Real love. Always.
