5 Must-Have Photo Spots at Mae’s Ridge: A Guide to Your Dream Hill Country Wedding

Introduction: When you choose a Dripping Springs wedding venue, you aren't just booking a space; you’re choosing a backdrop for your legacy. At Mae’s Ridge, our 28-acre property was designed with an "editorial eye," ensuring that every corner offers a sophisticated, modern farmhouse aesthetic for your wedding gallery.

Whether you are planning a grand celebration or an intimate Hill Country wedding, these five locations on our ridge will ensure your photos are as breathtaking as the views.

1. Sunset Ridge Overlook at Golden Hour

There is a reason we are named Mae’s Ridge. Our private horizon offers completely unobstructed views of the Texas Hill Country. For Austin wedding photographers, the "golden hour" here is unmatched, casting a warm, natural glow over the rugged landscape that makes for timeless portraits. Your Planner or Coordinator will have your back with incorporating the Golden Hour Photos into the timeline. This usually takes place about 20 minutes prior to sunset in order to capture those amazing colors and, of course, you two- the new married couple.

2. The Grand White Barn Windows and Doors

Our modern white barn features floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the reception hall with natural light. This is the perfect spot for "bright and airy" indoor shots, allowing the beauty of the outdoors to serve as your ceremony backdrop while guests stay comfortable in a climate-controlled space. Your photographer will absolutely love getting those Pre-wedding Detail Shots in the lighting of the venue. These shots may include (remember to pack these items):

• Your stationary suite

• Wedding shoes

• Your signature Wedding Day parfume

• The rings and cases

• Florals and candles

• Engagement or meaningful photos

• Wedding Vows or notes

3. The Covered Pavilion

The Pavilion isn’t just a rain plan; it’s a architectural statement. With tall lush grasses that surround our pavilion, you will get the green fresh background no matter with time of year it is in the Texas Hill Country. Clean lines and minimalist textures provide a gallery-style canvas for couples who want an editorial, contemporary feel to their wedding photos.

Some Photo Ideas for the Pavilion we’ve seen-

• First Look with Father/Daughter

• First Look with your partner

• Reading of your private notes

• After ceremony with the family

4. The Garden Grove- Our Outdoor Ceremony Spot

Get that lush green garden feel in our Garden Grove Ceremony Spot. Not only is it perfect to capture this element it also looks beyond the altar over the Texas Hill Country. Adding pops of color with your florals transforms into a fairytale garden ceremony.

Some photo- ops we’ve seen at The Garden Grove-

• Couples photos in front of the Square Arch with the countryside in the background

• Family photos with the old oak trees in the background

• Breeze Block in the background (my personal favorite)

• In any case the photos are amazing with the shade of all the trees

5. The Luxury Bridal Suites- One Venue, Two Moods

We believe your wedding morning should be as curated as the celebration itself. At Mae’s Ridge, you don’t have to choose between a serene start or a bold, high-fashion vibe—you have exclusive access to both.

• The Original Suite: Minimalist & Ethereal: Connected directly to the Grand Hall, this space is a dream for the "bright and airy" aesthetic. It’s a light-filled sanctuary designed with a clean, minimalist touch that lets your natural beauty and the fine details of your attire take center stage.

• The New Suite: Sultry & Maximalist: Just steps away, our newest addition (currently under construction) offers a complete sensory shift. This "color-drenched" space is deep, smoldery, and unapologetically sexy—a maximalist playground for those who want their "getting ready" photos to feel like a high-fashion editorial spread.

• No Choice Required: You aren't limited to one vibe. Both suites are yours to play in, providing two distinct backdrops for your gallery. Whether you want the peaceful glow of the morning or the moody, sophisticated energy of a luxury lounge, Mae’s Ridge provides the perfect canvas for every facet of your personality.

• The Groom’s Building (or Wedding Party Building)- While you move between your two luxury retreats, the Groom’s Building remains the ultimate high-end sanctuary—designed to feel less like a waiting room and more like an exclusive private club.

  • Designed for the Camera: With curated interior design selections and stunning custom tile work, this building provides a moody, masculine backdrop for editorial-style "getting ready" shots.

  • The Ultimate Social Hub: Challenge the group to a game on our custom 16-foot walnut shuffleboard or the bespoke retro-style pool table.

  • Fully Appointed Luxury: Pour a drink at the private bar, fully equipped with an icemaker and beverage refrigerators to keep the pre-ceremony toast perfectly chilled.

  • Indoor-Outdoor Flow: Step out onto the private porch to oversee a game of cornhole on the turf lawn, or retreat to the private bathroom featuring a full shower and designer finishes.

  • Private Bathroom: After playing and partying with your guys, retreat to the private bathroom featuring a full shower, high-end tile, and custom interior design selections for a refreshing start to your evening.