Jenn grew up wanting to be a wedding planner but ended up in finance. When she found the property that is now Camino Real Ranch, she knew it was going to be great. She quickly set up a time to meet with Nicole, who is a wedding photographer in Austin. The two discussed their ideas over coffee and decided to team up to bring their dreams to life! They bought the property in 2019, and spent about a year completely renovating the grounds. In July 2020, right in the middle of the COVID19 Pandemic, Camino Real Ranch was opened.
Nicole (left) and Jenn (right) owners of Camino Real Ranch. Photos by Vanessa Lain Photography
You might have noticed… Camino Real Ranch is big. 6 acres to be exact. There are various structures connected by beautiful outdoor space, making the venue super flexible. For indoor events, the Quonset Hut and Greenhouse are two stunning options. As for outdoor gatherings, there are a variety of options. Their Gazebo and Pond sites are great for wedding ceremonies, and their Tipi Terrace makes for a unique cocktail hour, or a small ceremony site. The Quonset Hut and Greenhouse are connected by a footpath, strung with festoon lights. This open area makes for a great cocktail hour area as well. With all of these locations, their capacity is flexible, but guest counts of 125 are their sweet spot, as those are easily accommodated in case of inclement weather.
Photos by Feather and Twine, Adeline Rock Photography
In comparison to the typical Austin wedding venue, Camino is quite unique. Jenn and Nicole describe the space as “Modern Desert Meets Texas Terrain. Our overall vibe is very eclectic yet minimalist with some pops of boho chic!” So what else makes Camino unique? First and foremost, the Quonset Hut, which is the first structure you’ll see upon arrival. This half-moon shaped building is a great statement, and holds a spiral staircase leading up to a loft space. If you’re super creative, they also have a 6ft x 6ft chalkboard wall, which is perfect as a welcome sign, seating chart, or even fun doodles! This space is best for cocktail hour or smaller receptions.
Photos by Nikk Nguyen Photo, Feather and Twine
Just beyond the Hut is the courtyard area, with permanent festoon lighting. Cocktail tables are also included, so you have the perfect set up for cocktail hour. You could also use this space as a ceremony setting with the Greenhouse as your backdrop! Keep reading for stats on the Greenhouse!
Just beyond the Quonset Hut is the Greenhouse. This renovated greenhouse has the most gorgeous diffused light! This location is perfect for an indoor ceremony or reception. There are steel rafters, perfect for hanging anything from twinkle lights and greenery to disco balls or anything in between! While stunning as is, the greenhouse is a perfect blank slate for your wildest design dreams.
Photos by Nikk Nguyen Photo
Photos by Feather and Twine
Behind the Greenhouse is a serene ceremony spot referenced as The Pond. Complete with benches for your guests to sit.
Photos by Feather and Twine
Camino Real Ranch does have 2 dedicated spaces for your getting ready needs. The Farmhouse and Cabin are the perfect place to get ready and relax! The Farmhouse is quite adorable, after touring you might think Chip and Joanna themselves decorated the space. You will immediately notice the flooring tile as soon as you walk in. The Farmhouse is spaced out with 2 bedrooms, a kitchen, and tons of natural light – perfect for those getting ready photos!
Photos by Rebekah Paul Photography
When renting Camino Real Ranch, you’ll have access to all six acres, as well as a ton of included items. Most commonly used are Camino’s 16 farm tables and 137 black bentwood dining chairs, though they have tons of other fun things as well! From a geometric white bar, to a hexagon ceremony arch, vintage rugs, and everything in between, you’re bound to find something to complement your design perfectly! One of our favorite touches is the neon “Love is all you need” sign in the Quonset hut. It adds the most romantic pink glow and makes for a great photo-op! To see the full list of available items, click here.
Photos by Feather and Twine, Rebekah Paul Photography
Like most wedding venues in Austin, Camino Real Ranch does require a professional day-of planner. Nicole and Jenn had everyone’s best interests in mind when deciding on this rule. Whether a small, intimate wedding, or a larger party, wedding coordinators are essential to ensuring the event runs smoothly, and your friends + family can relax and celebrate with you! To help you find the perfect planner, Jenn + Nicole provide each couple with a preferred vendors list. While they don’t require couples to hire from this list, they recommend these vendors as professionals who they trust to provide the best service possible – and the team here at Bianca Nichole and Co. is honored to be on that list!
If you’re reading this, we know you are probably newly engaged and early on in your planning process. Wedding planning can be a stressful time, but Jenn and Nicole offer some great advice. “The day flies by in a whirlwind! Do the things that are special and important to you as a couple and nix the rest. Don’t let traditions make you feel boxed into a timeline that doesn’t make you happy!” We couldn’t agree more! Your wedding is about the two of you and your official love for each other. Take your time, and enjoy every single second of it! Your coordinator and vendor team have your back and will make sure all the details of the day are perfect for you.