What a wonderful day it was for Divya and Ray at the gorgeous Three Bells Mission in Wallis, Texas — a wedding that will forever live in my memory as one of those magical celebrations where every moment was meaningful, emotional, and utterly fun. If you’re searching for inspiration (or a photographer!) for your Tulum-inspired Texas wedding, this story is one you won’t forget.
Three Bells Mission: A Spanish Villa Wedding Venue
From the moment I arrived at Three Bells Mission, I was struck by how perfectly it blends natural splendor with thoughtful design. Nestled along the winding banks of the Brazos River, the venue is a dreamy mix of Spanish-mission architecture and tropical charm. The chapel, with its massive cypress doors that open to a serene river view, feels both intimate and grand. Lush landscaping, tall palms, and the palapa rotunda add to the destination vibe — a little slice of Tulum tucked just outside of Houston.
Beyond the beauty, the venue offers incredible flexibility. Couples can exchange vows under the open-air bells before moving indoors for a chic reception surrounded by warm light and laughter. The staff is welcoming and accommodating, always ready to help couples personalize every detail. For anyone searching for a venue that feels both elegant and relaxed — where you can merge traditions, celebrate culture, and tell your story your way — Three Bells Mission is a true gem.
Merging Cultures at a Wallis TX Wedding
Divya and Ray’s wedding day was a beautiful blend of heritage, emotion, and pure joy. It was a celebration that honored their families just as much as their love for each other. The day began with a stunning Hindu ceremony, filled with color, laughter, and quiet glances that said more than words ever could. The rituals were deeply meaningful, connecting generations through tradition and memory.
Later in the day, a second ceremony brought both families together once more — a true merging of cultures and hearts. From the first look to the last dance, there was a sense of legacy in every moment, balanced by the lightness of new beginnings. One of my favorite memories was Divya’s first look with her bridesmaids and her mom — the tears, the laughter, the unspoken “we’ve been waiting for this” energy that filled the air. And when the party started, it was unforgettable. Both moms took over the dance floor, and everyone followed. You could feel the joy radiating from the room — the kind of energy that future generations will see in photos and immediately know: this was a celebration from start to finish.
A Fun-Filled Three Bells Mission Wedding
Because no wedding day is complete without a little fun, one of Ray’s best men kicked things off with the perfect prank. When “the bride” turned around during the get-ready portion of the day and it turned out to be his best man instead of Divya, Ray’s reaction was priceless. It set the tone for the rest of the celebration — equal parts heartfelt and hilarious. For a moody, romantic photographer like me, that kind of emotional range — the tenderness of a ceremony paired with spontaneous laughter — is storytelling gold.
The Heart Behind Houston Texas Wedding Photography
If you’re dreaming of a Three Bells Mission wedding, this celebration is a great example of everything I love about what I do. From the bells and palms swaying along the riverside to the heartfelt ceremonies and the wild dance floor that followed, this day was a reminder of why I adore storytelling through imagery. It was proof that tradition and fun can live side by side, that emotion can be both tender and joyful, and that love always finds a way to bring people together.
Divya and Ray — thank you for trusting me to tell your story. The merging of your families, the love that filled the air, and the laughter that echoed long into the night are moments I’ll never forget. I hope these images become a keepsake for generations — the story of the day your families became one. That’s the heart of my work as a photographer: capturing emotion, legacy, and love in a way that lasts forever.
Tips for Your Houston Wedding at Three Bells Mission
If you’re planning your own celebration at this stunning Texas venue, here are a few tips to help your story shine:
1. Schedule Your First Look at Golden Hour
Plan it near the chapel or palapa rotunda with the river backdrop — you’ll get those dreamy “destination wedding by the sea” vibes right here in Texas.
2. Get Ready On-Site
Three Bells Mission offers beautiful bridal and groom suites with easy access to the ceremony and reception areas. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a calm, connected morning.
3. Merge Culture + Fun
Whether you’re blending traditions, planning a Hindu ceremony, or adding a twist like a surprise dance or prank, create space in your timeline for both portraits and spontaneous joy.
4. Explore the Grounds Together
Give me 10–15 minutes alone with the two of you for portraits along the river and under the palms. Let’s capture those quiet, just-married moments.
5. Let the Party Unfold
When the dance floor opens, let it go. Those are the photos that will make you smile for decades.
Houston Texas Wedding Photography
Hey, I’m Krystal, a Houston-based wedding and elopement photographer capturing love stories through candid, heartfelt imagery. If you’re dreaming of wedding photos that feel as joyful as the day itself, I’d love to help tell your story. For more information about the K Ruiz wedding experience or pricing for wedding photos in Texas hill country, take a look here. Ready to start planning your dream day? Let’s talk!
