What does a Downtown Houston Elopement look like when it’s designed to feel exactly like you?

For Anji and Fernando, it meant ditching the stress, skipping the crowd, and focusing on what mattered most: their love, their pup, and their closest people. Their Downtown Houston Elopement was quiet, intentional, and full of thoughtful personal touches that made it completely their own.

As a Houston elopement photographer, I always remind couples your day doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. Whether it’s bringing your dog, having your best friend officiate, or choosing a historic downtown courthouse over a traditional venue, your wedding should feel like home.

Anji and Fernando met while working as behavioral therapists for children on the autism spectrum. Since moving to Texas, they’ve built a calm life centered around creativity, connection, and cozy weekends in. They told me they were camera shy, but during their Houston city elopement we kept things relaxed and authentic and what we captured was pure love and intention.

Including Their Dog in Their Downtown Houston Elopement

One of the first things Anji asked when planning their Downtown Houston elopement was, “Can our dog be in the photos?” My answer? Absolutely yes. As a fellow dog parent, I get it, our pets are family. Including your pup in your wedding day makes everything feel even more personal. While the 1910 Historic Courthouse in downtown Houston doesn’t allow dogs inside, the outdoor space is beautiful and pet-friendly, making it the perfect way to include your dog without any added stress.

If you’re planning a Houston elopement and wondering whether to bring your dog, do it!! Anji and Fernando’s pup showed up in full proud-dog mode and brought so much joy to the day. As a Houston elopement photographer, I’ve seen how special those little moments can be your dog walking alongside you, posing for portraits, or simply being part of the joy. Especially at the 1910 Historic Courthouse, including your pet makes the day even more unforgettable.

A Personal Ceremony Officiated by Their Best Friend

Anji and Fernando kept their ceremony deeply personal by having their best friend officiate. That one decision transformed the vibe, it felt intimate, emotional, and completely them. As a Houston elopement photographer, I always notice how the energy shifts when someone close leads the ceremony. It brings comfort and connection that always shows in the photos.

Planning a Texas elopement? The good news is: it’s easy to have a loved one officiate in Texas. Here are two trusted sites where they can get ordained online:

Here are two trusted websites where they can get ordained:

• American Marriage Ministries

• Get Ordained™ by Universal Life Church Ministries

It only takes a few minutes to complete, and then your chosen person can legally officiate your courthouse wedding or wherever your ceremony takes place. It’s such a small step that adds a huge personal touch to your day.

Keeping It Small, Calm, and Intentional

Their Houston elopement took place on a cool Saturday afternoon downtown, which meant the streets were quiet giving us room to slow down and enjoy the moment. The couple kept things small, inviting just close friends and immediate family to witness their vows.

They chose the 1910 Courthouse because of its timeless architecture and downtown location making it perfect for a low-stress yet beautifully styled Houston city elopement. We focused on capturing relaxed group shots with their people, and wrapped up with portraits of just the two of them simple, romantic, and effortless.

As a Houston elopement photographer, I love when couples skip the big traditions and create a day that feels honest and personal. Anji and Fernando’s 1910 Courthouse elopement was proof that your day doesn’t need to be elaborate to be meaningful. All it takes is intention and a few personal touches to make it yours.

Thinking of planning your own Texas elopement?
Book your date with me here
Follow along for more stories and inspiration: @patriciaperezpicazo