The Lomonico Blog

Madison + Triston’s Day

Some weddings you never forget, not because everything went perfectly, but because the day demanded faith, flexibility, and a whole lot of community spirit. Madison and Triston’s Fredericksburg wedding is one of those days I’ll carry with me forever.

Their celebration was set for March 15, 2025, at Hillside and Redrock, tucked just north of downtown. As their photographer, I was thrilled — another photographer had referred these two, and from the very first conversation, I knew they were a dream couple. Easygoing, joyful, and excited to soak up every moment. I had my gear packed and ready, buzzing with anticipation as I made the drive out to meet them.

But as I got closer, I noticed something no one ever wants to see on a wedding day: smoke. Thick plumes of smoke rose against the Texas sky, and my heart dropped. The Crabapple Fire had broken out just 11 miles away, and though I didn’t know the full scope at the time, I knew this wasn’t good.

We tried to focus on the moment. I photographed their first look, even pulling off a hilarious first look prank involving a wedding dress and the groom’s best friend, and began family portraits, working quickly but intentionally as the smoke clouds continued to fill the sky. Just as we were finding our rhythm, the planner — a dear family friend of the couple — rushed over with the news: we had to evacuate. The fire was too close, the risk too high.

For a moment, everything felt like it stood still. Guests, family, vendors — everyone looked at each other, trying to figure out the next step. Ideas were tossed around: maybe a park? Maybe a public space? But everywhere was full. Even the local park had a farmer’s market happening. The clock was ticking toward sunset, and there wasn’t a clear solution.

That’s when a small connection from weeks before turned into the miracle we needed. I had recently photographed the son of the owner of Swallows Eve, a gorgeous venue not far from us. During that shoot, I had chatted with the owner and built a quick rapport. On a hunch, I picked up my phone and called him, heart pounding, to ask something wild: Was there any chance her venue was free — and could we move an entire wedding there in just a few hours?

His answer still gives me chills: “Yes. Bring everyone.”

What followed was nothing short of a community parade. Fifty guests, vendors, and family members packed up and caravanned across town. The fires delayed some vendors, while others were stuck in traffic; however, everyone who could move did so. People carried decorations, florals, cake boxes, and sound equipment. It was organized chaos, but it was fueled by love and determination.

As soon as we arrived at Swallows Eve, it was all hands on deck. The staff opened the gates, and guests flowed in, pitching in where they could. Food, tables, cake — everything was set up at lightning speed. While the incredible vendor team scrambled to reset, I stepped in to assist the planner, making announcements and directing people so everything flowed smoothly. Later, the father of the bride told me I was a “badass” for how I got “military on their ass” during portrait time (haha)— and honestly, I took that as the highest compliment.

Against the rustic backdrop of Swallows Eve, the couple exchanged vows surrounded by the people who mattered most. While the ceremony arch never got decorated, it didn’t matter; the air was thick with gratitude. Yes, the original plan had gone up in smoke (literally), but what took its place felt almost divinely orchestrated.

Once the ceremony ended, the reception kicked off without a hitch. The DJ had reset and was ready to party. Videographers helped coordinate transitions to keep everything smooth. Guests laughed and danced in an electric atmosphere, like everyone knew they were part of something truly one-of-a-kind. The evening wound down with glow sticks to light up the night for a joyful send-off. 

Watching Madison and Triston surrounded by their loved ones, bathed in neon colors and laughter, I realized this wedding had become unforgettable not despite the chaos, but because of it. When I think back on March 15, I don’t just remember the fire. I remember the resilience and rallying of everyone, how the couple stayed grounded in love, and that a single phone call turned devastation into beauty.

Madison and Triston’s wedding is proof that sometimes the most magical days are the ones that don’t go according to plan. And for me, as a photographer, it was an honor to capture not just their portraits, but their courage, their joy, and the way love always finds a way to shine brighter than the smoke.

If you’re looking for a photographer who will be there for every moment — calm in the chaos, ready to pivot, and fiercely committed to telling your story no matter what comes — I’d love to be that person for you. Let’s capture not just the pretty details, but the unforgettable moments that make your wedding day truly yours.

— Christine, Lomonico Photography

Special thanks to all of these incredible vendors:
Venues: The Hillside at Redrock in Fredericksburg & Swallows Eve | Florist: Misty Acres | DJ: Essen Entertainment | Food: Chef D’s | Hair and Makeup: Southern Tease | Cake: Caketini Bar. Co by Jayna & Joey | Videographer: Mobile Boheme