JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa – Ashley & Brandon
Weddings at the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa have a way of blending elegance with Texas charm. Ashley and Brandon’s wedding was no exception. Their day wasn’t just about a big celebration—it was about creating a space where love, family, and togetherness could shine. With their children by their side, the day felt more like a heartfelt family story than a production. And that’s what made it so beautiful.
As a San Antonio wedding photographer couple, we’ve had the joy of documenting weddings at venues all across the city, but the JW Marriott Hill Country always feels like a hidden gem. It’s grand without being stuffy, luxurious without losing its relaxed vibe. For couples who want their wedding to feel personal, but still want their guests to have an unforgettable experience, this resort hits the sweet spot.
Why Couples Love JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa
The first thing you notice about the JW Marriott is how expansive it is. Nestled right into the Texas Hill Country, it gives you those wide, rolling views that are perfect for wedding portraits. But beyond the views, couples love it because it doubles as a wedding venue and a weekend getaway.
If you’ve got friends traveling in from out of town, they won’t just be sitting in a hotel room waiting for the wedding. They’ll be golfing, lounging by the pool, or treating themselves at the spa. Some of Ashley and Brandon’s family even came in a day early to soak up the resort’s lazy river and water park. It set the tone for their wedding—fun, relaxing, and full of connection.
For couples who want options, the JW Marriott delivers. Outdoor spaces with sweeping vistas? Check. Elegant ballrooms for indoor receptions? Check. Small, intimate corners for family-focused weddings like Ashley and Brandon’s? Also check.
Ashley & Brandon’s Wedding Day Story with Their San Antonio Wedding Photographer
The Morning – Calm and Comfortable
One of our favorite things about photographing at the JW Marriott is how spacious and well-lit the getting-ready suites are. Ashley spent the morning surrounded by her children and closest family, and the atmosphere was so relaxed. Instead of the frantic energy that sometimes fills a bridal suite, this one felt more like a cozy family morning—kids giggling, Ashley sharing quiet moments with her daughters, everyone soaking in the anticipation.
For us, those in-between moments—the unplanned laughter, the way Ashley’s daughter twirled in her dress—are what make wedding photography timeless.
Brandon had his own suite just a short walk away, which made bouncing between their rooms easy for us. He spent time with his sons, showing them how to straighten their ties. We could tell it wasn’t just about getting ready for a wedding; it was about creating memories that his kids would always carry with them.
The Ceremony – Hill Country Views with Family Front and Center
Ashley and Brandon chose The Sunday House, an outdoor ceremony site with views of the Hill Country. It felt intimate, and fit their vision perfectly. Their children stood with them during the vows, making it not just the joining of two people, but of an entire family.
When Ashley walked down the aisle, it wasn’t just Brandon beaming—we should see the excitement on their kids as well. Those are the moments you can’t stage, and they’re the ones that stick with you.
The ceremony itself was heartfelt and deeply personal. Instead of long readings or a big production, it was centered around their love story and the new chapter they were starting as a family.
The Reception – An Intimate Celebration
After the ceremony, the celebration moved indoors where Ashley and Brandon kept things simple, intentional, and family-focused. The restaurant space was transformed with warm lighting and elegant table settings, but the vibe stayed intimate. It was a reminder that weddings don’t have to be stiff or overly formal—they can be fun, kid-friendly, and still elegant.
What Makes JW Marriott Hill Country a Dream Venue for Couples
We’ve photographed weddings at a wide range of venues, but JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country has a few unique advantages:
Versatility – You can host anything from a 300-guest ballroom bash to a 30-person intimate gathering. Ashley and Brandon leaned toward the intimate side, and the venue fit them perfectly.
Guest Experience – Out-of-town guests can stay on-site and enjoy the resort all weekend. Think spa treatments, golf, or just lounging in the Hill Country air.
Texas Hill Country Setting – You get the beauty of nature without sacrificing luxury. Outdoor portraits at golden hour here are chef’s kiss.
Stress-Free Logistics – Having ceremony, reception, and accommodations in one place makes the day smoother (and means no one gets lost trying to find the next location).
For couples balancing modern elegance with down-to-earth comfort, this venue really does it all.
Photography Tips at JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country from a Local San Antonio Wedding Photographer
Every venue has its “sweet spots” for photography, and after shooting here, we have a few tips for couples planning their day:
Golden Hour is Magic – The Hill Country sunsets spill golden light across the landscape. Ashley and Brandon’s portraits were under a soft overcast sky but still felt warm, romantic, and glowing.
Use the Architecture – The resort’s stonework and modern design add variety to your gallery. It’s not just nature shots—you’ll get a mix of rustic and modern backdrops.
Plan for Movement – With children in the wedding, we encouraged Ashley and Brandon to focus on candid, interactive photos, along with some cute group photos
Don’t Skip the Small Corners – The courtyards and tucked-away gardens are perfect for intimate couple shots away from the crowd.
Why We Loved Documenting Ashley & Brandon’s Day
As photographers, we’re drawn to authenticity, and Ashley and Brandon’s wedding was filled with it. From the moment we stepped into their suites, we could feel the focus wasn’t on creating a “perfect” day, but on celebrating a real one—with their children, their laughter, and their love at the center.
One of our favorite moments happened during dinner. Ashley wanted a cute group photo of everyone at the table. Ashley scooped up her daughter and places right up front. That image—Ashley and Brandon with their family, is the one that tells their whole story in a single frame.
Those are the kinds of moments that remind us why we love what we do as San Antonio wedding photographers.
Final Thoughts from Your San Antonio Wedding Photographer
If you’re looking for a wedding venue in San Antonio that combines luxury, versatility, and heart, the JW Marriott Hill Country Resort & Spa deserves a spot at the top of your list. Whether you’re planning a large celebration or an intimate family-centered day like Ashley and Brandon’s, the resort gives you everything you need for a seamless and unforgettable wedding weekend.
And if you want a San Antonio wedding photographer who captures not just the beauty of your day, but the laughter, the hugs, and the little moments that matter most—we’d love to be there for your story, too.
Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about the wedding. It’s about the people you love most, the moments you’ll never forget, and the photographs that will keep those memories alive for years to come.
