Welcome Party

Wedding Day

LifeAustin Chapel

Ceremony

Reception

Our Wedding

Antonio&nbsp;and&nbsp;Mariela’s&nbsp;story began long before they realized it was a love story. They were just children when their paths first crossed, their families connected through business. At twelve years old, Mariela arrived at the Maldonado ranch fora camping vacation, and Angelica Maldonado, Antonio’s sister, gave her a warm tour of the house. It was there, that Angelica introduced Mariela to Antonio. For years, their interactions were fleeting—polite smiles at business events, friendly exchanges that never ventured beyond the surface. Mariela became more involved in the family business, shuttling between Atlanta and Austin to help with events. Antonio would offer her rides to and from the office. “Those car rides were very awkward at first”, Mariela remembers, those rides were filled with silence. Neither of them could have guessed how those quiet moments would one day become the foundation of something extraordinary. Then, the world changed. COVID-19 swept across the globe, and Mariela found herself staying in Austin as a precaution. Amid the uncertainty and isolation, Antonio became her constant. They spent hours together—watching TV, sharing meals, and exploring the hiddencorners of Austin. Slowly, the awkwardness melted away, replaced by an easy camaraderie. They became best friends, confiding in each other, sharing their dreams, and discovering how much they truly had in common. When the shutdown lifted and Mariela returned to Atlanta, their bond didn’t falter. They stayed in touch, texting and calling constantly, their connection growing stronger despite the distance. A few months later, Mariela returned to Austin for another business event. Reunited, Antonio took her for a walk down the creek behind his house. The air was thick with unspokenwords, and finally, Antonio gathered the courage to tell her what he’d been feeling all along: “I love you.” Mariela’s heart soared as she confessed, “I love you too.” Their love story became one of resilience and devotion. A long-distance relationship wasn’t easy, but they made it work. Communication was their lifeline—virtual dates, surprise visits, and countless late-night conversations kept them close. They cherished every moment together, knowing their love was worth the wait. Four years later, Antonio brought Mariela back to the creek, the place where their love had blossomed. Under the guise of a picnic, he led her to the very spot where he’d first confessed his feelings. Antonio got down on one knee and asked Mariela to be his forever. Throughtears of joy, she said, “Yes!” Their love story is a testament to patience, friendship, and the beauty of a love that grows slowly, then all at once. From awkward car rides to a lifetime of adventures, Antonio and Mariela’s journey proves that sometimes, the best love stories are the ones that take their time.

Our Story

Photos

Manuel & Rosi Martinez

Antonio & Juanita Maldonado

Emmanuel Maldonado

Israel Maldonado

Carlos Murcia

Emmanuel Martinez

Angelica Maldonado

Rosie Martinez

Sheisy Benitez

Lia Benitez

Wedding Party

Q + A

9 Minute drive to ceremony7 Minute drive to reception

Sonesta Bee Cave Austin Hill Country

14 Minute drive to ceremony13 Minute drive to reception

SpringHill Suites Austin West/Lakeway

15 Minute drive to ceremony14 Minute drive to reception

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Lakeway

Travel

Terry Black's Barbecue

Pinthouse Pizza

Legendary brisket—go early, there’s always a line. "Serving the best barbecuein the known universe"-Texas Monthly

Franklin Barbecue

.Witness the nightly emergence of the bat colony.

Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bat Bridge

&nbsp;Great for shopping, people-watching, murals (like “I Love You So Much”), and food trucks.

South Congress SOCO Mural

Free to visit, beautiful architecture, and you can do a quick tour

Texas Capitol

Hike to the top for panoramic views of the city and Lake Austin.&nbsp;

Mariela & Antonio

Mariela & Antonio

Travel

Sonesta Bee Cave Austin Hill Country

SpringHill Suites Austin West/Lakeway

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Lakeway