NATALIE AND ATHENS
STONEY RIDGE VILLA - DALLAS WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER - 02/28/2026
Ceremony and Reception: Stoney Ridge Villa
Makeup and Hair: Get Pretty Gals
Gown: Maggie Sottero
Tuxes: Vera Wang
Florist: Fountain Designs
Cake: Back Home Bakery
Officiant: Riley Vance
Catering: 360 Catering
DJ: Jaime Chavez, Ambiance Entertainment
Wedding Planner: Cody Fountain from Fountain Designs
Dallas Wedding Photographers: Rafael Serrano Photography
Some weddings are filled with beautiful details, while others are remembered for the emotions they create. Natalie and Athens’ wedding at Stoney Ridge Villa had the perfect combination of both. As a Dallas wedding photographer, we have the privilege of witnessing many incredible love stories, and theirs was one that touched everyone present.
Nestled in the rolling hills just outside the Dallas/Fort Worth area, Stoney Ridge Villa is one of the most charming venues in North Texas. With breathtaking views, elegant architecture, and stunning sunset opportunities, it's easy to see why so many Dallas brides fall in love with this venue.
The day began with Natalie and Athens getting ready surrounded by their closest friends and family.
The girls spent the morning laughing, listening to music, and getting pampered by the talented team at Get Pretty Gals, who did an amazing job with hair and makeup. The bridal suite was full of excitement as everyone prepared for the celebration ahead.
Meanwhile, Athens and his groomsmen enjoyed a relaxed morning playing games and sharing stories. Before the festivities began, Athens took some quiet time to finish writing and reviewing his vows, preparing himself for one of the most important moments of his life.
Natalie was helped into her dress by two of the most important women in her life—her mom and little sister. These moments are always some of our favorites to capture through wedding photography because they tell the deeper story of the day.
Athens also shared special moments with his brother and mom while getting dressed, creating memories that would stay with him forever.
Before the ceremony, Natalie shared a heartfelt first look with her father.
As he turned around and saw his daughter fully dressed as a bride, emotions immediately filled the room. Tears, hugs, and smiles followed as they shared a private moment together before the ceremony.
Natalie also surprised her parents with thoughtful gifts, creating another emotional chapter in a day already filled with meaningful moments.
As a Dallas wedding photographer, these genuine family interactions often become some of the most treasured images from a wedding day.
The ceremony took place outside on the venue’s stunning balcony, overlooking the beautiful Texas landscape.
Surrounded by family and friends, Natalie and Athens exchanged vows and promised forever to one another. The setting was absolutely breathtaking, with natural beauty serving as the perfect backdrop for their ceremony.
The love and support from everyone present could be felt throughout the ceremony, making it a truly unforgettable experience.
After the ceremony, we moved directly into family portraits and bridal party photos.
One of the things we love most about Stoney Ridge Villa is the variety of photo opportunities available throughout the property. From elegant architecture to scenic views, every corner offers something beautiful.
While guests enjoyed cocktail hour, we captured candid moments of friends and family celebrating together before focusing on portraits of Natalie and Athens.
As sunset approached, we headed to one of the venue’s most iconic locations—the rooftop. The golden light created a magical atmosphere and allowed us to capture some of our favorite images of the entire day. These sunset portraits perfectly reflected the joy, excitement, and love the couple shared.
he reception kicked off with incredible energy as guests entered ready to celebrate.
The evening featured touching parent dances, heartfelt moments, and plenty of laughter. The DJ kept everyone entertained with interactive games and activities that had guests fully engaged throughout the night.
One of the most fun moments came later in the evening when we stepped outside with the guys to create some dramatic cigar portraits. These photos added a stylish and cinematic touch to the wedding gallery and became some of the groom's favorite images from the day.
The dance floor remained packed all night as friends and family celebrated Natalie and Athens' new journey together.
To conclude the evening, guests gathered around the grand staircase holding sparkling wands as Natalie and Athens made their exit.
Waiting for them at the bottom was a beautiful classic car, creating the perfect ending to a perfect day. Surrounded by cheers, sparkles, and loved ones, they drove away as newlyweds ready to begin their next chapter together.
Natalie and Athens' wedding at Stoney Ridge Villa was everything a wedding should be—emotional, joyful, meaningful, and unforgettable.
From the emotional first look with her dad to the rooftop sunset portraits and the sparkling grand exit, every moment reflected the love they share and the support of the people who mean the most to them.
It was an honor to document their story and preserve these memories through timeless photographs.
Rafael Serrano Photography is a countrywide professional photography company, based in Dallas, Texas.