Your Wedding at Montesino Ranch: See It During the 2025 Wimberley Venue Crawl
Planning a wedding can feel a little like juggling sparklers—beautiful, exciting, but also a bit overwhelming when you’re trying to figure out where to start. If you’ve ever wished you could tour multiple dreamy venues in one weekend, meet the vendors face‑to‑face, and actually feel what your wedding day could be like, then the Wimberley Venue Crawl is for you. And we’re thrilled to share that WalstonPhoto will once again be part of the Crawl, this time teaming up with Montesino Ranch.
We participated last year, and let’s just say—we’re still glowing from it. Wimberley truly rolled out the red‑carpet Hill Country style, and Montesino Ranch was the kind of backdrop that makes you whisper to yourself, “Wow, people really get married here?” Spoiler: yes, and it’s every bit as magical as it sounds.
What Is the Wimberley Venue Crawl?
The Wimberley Venue Crawl is a three‑day wedding showcase (September 19–21, 2025) where couples can tour 12+ wedding venues in the heart of the Texas Hill Country. Imagine a weekend filled with beautiful spaces, live setups, vendor meet‑and‑greets, delicious sips and bites, and even chances to win prizes (including $500 toward your venue booking!). It’s like speed dating for venues—only way more fun and with better snacks.
If you’ve been trying to narrow down your venue list, this event saves you weeks of scattered weekend visits. Instead of juggling endless calendars and email chains, you get to explore them all in a single, well‑organized weekend.
Montesino Ranch: Where Rustic Elegance Meets the River
One of the highlights of the Crawl is Montesino Ranch, and we may be biased because we’ve photographed events there—but we’re also confident you’ll see why it’s unforgettable the moment you step foot on the property.
Montesino Ranch is a 225‑acre working ranch, just three miles outside Wimberley. Think century‑old oak trees, stunning Hill Country views, and private access to the Blanco River. It’s both sprawling and intimate, with architecture that blends seamlessly with the land. There’s no cookie‑cutter ballroom vibe here—it feels like nature and design conspired to create a wedding canvas that adapts to you.
Why We Love Photographing at Montesino
The light. Golden hour at Montesino Ranch isn’t just “nice.” It’s cinematic. Last year, we caught a couple slipping away to the cedar‑timbered ceremony perch just as the sun was melting behind the hills. Their laughter echoed in the still air, and it was one of those moments where the whole world feels like it’s pausing just for you.
The variety. From shaded oak groves to wide‑open meadows, every corner offers a different texture for your photos. You get both rustic ranch charm and soft, romantic backdrops in one space.
The authenticity. Horses graze in the distance. The river hums nearby. You feel like you’re part of something rooted and timeless. It’s not just a venue—it’s an experience.
We’ve always believed great wedding photos happen when you can simply be yourselves, and Montesino has this calming effect that makes couples relax. When you’re not stressing, your photos reflect genuine connection—and that’s what we’re all about.
Our Experience at Last Year’s Crawl
Last year, we partnered with Montesino Ranch during the Venue Crawl, and the experience was electric. Couples wandered the property with wide eyes, asking the kind of real questions you can only ask when you’re physically in the space:
“Where would cocktail hour work best?”
“Could we have a dance floor under those oaks?”
“What happens if it rains?”
We loved getting to walk those paths with couples, pointing out the best sunset spots, or showing them how the cedar‑framed barn glows once evening lights come on. It wasn’t a stiff tour—it was collaborative and imaginative. We felt like teammates helping couples dream up their day.
The Crawl isn’t just about seeing spaces—it’s about feeling them. And Montesino had this quiet magic that left couples smiling long after they left.
Why the Venue Crawl Is a Game‑Changer for Couples
Here’s the truth: picking a venue is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make for your wedding day. The space shapes the vibe, the flow, and even how your photos look. And while websites and Instagram are great, nothing replaces walking into a space and feeling its energy.
The Crawl makes that process easier by:
Saving time. Instead of 12 separate appointments, you get to see them in one weekend.
Meeting vendors in real life. From caterers to photographers (hey, that’s us), you’ll meet people who can make your day run smoothly.
Seeing setups in action. Many venues style tables or ceremony spots, so you can better visualize your own day.
Getting inspired. Even if you don’t pick a venue, you leave with ideas—from décor to layout to photo opportunities.
It’s not just practical—it’s fun. You and your fiancé can make a weekend of it: grab coffee, tour venues, and end the day with dinner in downtown Wimberley. (Pro tip: the tacos are always a good idea.)
Tips for Visiting Montesino Ranch During the Crawl
If you’re planning to stop by Montesino during the Crawl, here are a few tips to make the most of your visit:
1. Catch Golden Hour
If you can, plan your visit around sunset. The views from the hilltop ceremony space are nothing short of breathtaking, and you’ll understand why photographers (like us) get a little giddy about that light.
2. Wear Comfortable Shoes
With 225 acres to explore, you’ll want to wander. Stilettos may look good, but trust us—your feet will thank you if you choose something walk‑friendly.
3. Bring Your Questions
Montesino is versatile, so ask away:
Where would you recommend for family portraits?
Can we host both ceremony and reception on‑site?
What’s the rain plan?
The staff (and us, if you bump into us) are happy to share ideas and real experiences.
4. Imagine Yourself There
As you walk the spaces, picture your wedding day: dancing under string lights, sneaking off for riverside photos, hugging your grandparents under the oak grove. If you can see it in your mind, chances are it’s the right fit.
5. Say Hi to Us!
We’ll be there again this year, and we’d love to meet you. Whether you want photography tips, venue advice, or just reassurance that yes, your dog can totally be part of your ceremony—we’re here for it.
Final Thoughts: Your Hill Country Love Story Awaits
Choosing a wedding venue isn’t about picking the prettiest spot—it’s about finding the place that feels like yours. Montesino Ranch, with its rustic elegance and grounded charm, has a way of helping couples feel at ease. And when you’re relaxed, your photos capture authentic joy—the kind you’ll want to relive for years.
The Wimberley Venue Crawl is your chance to explore, connect, and imagine your day unfolding in real time. We can’t wait to see familiar faces and meet new couples ready to write their own Hill Country love story.
So grab your tickets, charge your phone (for pics and notes), and come see us at Montesino Ranch. We’ll be the ones smiling behind the camera, cheering you on as you plan one of the best days of your life. Click here for Event Details!
– Royce & Michelle, WalstonPhoto
