So you you’ve always dreamed of getting married in downtown New Braunfels or nearby Gruene, TX. Who can blame you? With all the history and charm, it’s tough to find a more nostalgic place to start your forever. But what if you did better than just saying your nuptials in one of these cute towns? What if every detail of your wedding planning occurred at a quaint Gruene, TX stop or a trendy New Braunfels spot? Imagine the memories! This is what we have in mind for you today—the ultimate wedding checklist: All Things New Braunfels and Gruene Edition!


Does your mom love coffee? After the big engagement news has settled, take her to Gruene Coffee Haus to discuss the budget! Pick a day with nice weather and take a stroll around historic Gruene with your cup of joe to discuss ideas and next steps! Once the budget is in place, your first step should be to book your dream wedding at Gruene Estate wedding venue!


Where your girls at? Next up, time to make the bridesmaid selection official. But don’t you dare just send a quick text! Make it a thing—a Martini thing at Gruene Tinis! This cute little martini bar is the perfect place to ask your girls to be your bridesmaids! For years to come, you can set up girls’ night here (just a few blocks down from historic Gruene Hall — perfect pre-concert drinks!) and recall that this is where you posed the all-important question “will you be a bridesmaid in my wedding?!” The squeals can quickly be muffled by a dainty sip of one of their stellar martinis!


You’ve secured the venue, created a budget and have your close circle in the know. Now it’s time to discuss vendors. Save countless hours by not trying to have these detailed conversations over social media, text or even phone call and add to the full experience by having one serious brainstorming sesh at 188 South in Downtown New Braunfels. Farm to table recipes with an Italian Flair that lends itself to slow eating and LOTS of wedding planning conversation!


You’ve spent months on that cleaning eating plan and you’ve been working out regularly to fit into your dream dress. After you purchase it, go celebrate with mom and treat her to a “thank you” patio brunch at McAdoos! She’ll feel your love when you walk arm and arm with her to the Bloody Mary Bar!


All this time with your mom and your girls—what happened to the groom?! He probably didn’t miss talking about flowers or all the dress stress, but you know what will get his attention?! Honeymoon planning! Take him out for a night of casual, rustic elegance at Mozie’s for a full bar, menu of American classics and lots of Honeymoon destination talk! When you’ve narrowed it down to two potential locales, celebrate by crossing the street and taking in some live music at none other than Gruene Hall! Did all the honeymoon talk wear you out? Maybe instead cross the street in the other direction for some good ol’ fashion ice cream and adorable shopping at the Gruene General Store! Not only will you end your night with an amazing, nostalgic ice cream cone, you’ll very likely find your first Christmas ornament as a couple in this adorable old fashion general store!


You’ve booked the venue, the vendors, the honeymoon… the big day is nearing and you’re on the edge of your seat. Speaking of seats, where do you want everyone assigned for the reception? Are you going traditional with a real specific seating chart or more modern with the “pick a seat, not a side” idea? This is a discussion that needs to be had with your unofficial planning committee in a relaxed atmosphere… with amazing food and drinks! How about with a tasty margarita a Las Fontanas? You’ll relish in all you’ve accomplished and be surrounded by those that helped all along the way! Sounds like a perfect ending to a homegrown wedding planning tradition!


So don’t just say your vows in your dream town of New Braunfels or Gruene, do anything and everything wedding-planning related at a hot spot in one of the two! You’ll support the locals, create fun memories and make the most of the stressful but amazing months leading up to your special day!

Photos by 1778 Photographie.