The Commodore Perry Estate is one of the most sought after engagement photo locations in Austin, Texas. And for good reason — the sunken garden area is gorgeous! As you walk through the garden you feel like you’re visiting an estate in Lake Como, not a historic building across the street from an H-E-B.
Paige told Michelle that her dream proposal would be at Commodore Perry, and Michelle brought it to life! One sunny evening in March, Michelle surprised Paige by popping a very important question, followed by a dreamy staycation at the estate.
I’ve photographed a lot of proposals. In fact, I’ve even written a guide to planning the perfect proposal in Austin. And Michelle knocked her proposal out of the park. She picked her partner’s dream location, got permission from the venue to propose, and worked with a professional photographer to schedule the session for the best lighting possible. It was perfect!
About the Commodore Perry Estate
The Commodore Perry Estate Hotel is a hotel operated by Auberge Resorts in the Hancock neighborhood of Austin, Texas. The 10-acre estate was originally the home of Edgar and Lutie Perry from 1917 to 1944. Unsurprisingly, their European travels inspired the design of the Italian Renaissance Revival Mansion.
The estate was sold in 1944 to the Roman Catholic Diocese of Austin who turned the property into Saint Mary’s Academy. Clark Lyda, who went to high school on the property when it was the Christian Academy of Austin, purchased the lot in 2011. She opened the current hotel in 2020.
How to Propose at Commodore Perry
The Commodore Perry Estate is strict when it comes to photo sessions. To propose at the hotel, you’ll need to book a room. Photoshoots are available Monday through Wednesday and must be arranged at least 48 hours in advance. Your photographer must be pre-approved by the hotel team, so it helps if you hire someone who’s worked at the venue before. Their website also says there’s an additional $2500 photo session fee, although none of my proposal clients have had to pay it.
You can get the booking process started by filling out their personal photoshoot application.
Why I Love Commodore Perry for Proposals and Engagement Photos
While Commodore Perry is best known as one of Austin’s most beautiful wedding venues, it’s also one of my favorite locations for proposals and engagement sessions. The property offers an incredible mix of elegant architecture, manicured gardens, and secluded pathways. It’s the perfect romantic backdrop without feeling overly formal.
For surprise proposals, the estate offers several tucked-away spots that allow the moment to unfold privately. For engagement sessions, I love the variety Commodore Perry offers. Within a short walk, you can have images that feel garden-inspired, editorial, historic, and modern all in the same gallery.
Meet Tess Leslie Photography
I’m an Austin photographer with over a decade of experience documenting proposals, engagement sessions, and weddings. As a photographer, Commodore Perry is one of my favorite properties in Austin. Whether you’re planning a wedding, proposal, or engagement session here, my goal is to help you feel comfortable and able to enjoy every moment while creating photographs that feel authentically like you.
If you’re planning a proposal, engagement session, or wedding at Commodore Perry, I’d love to be your photographer! Inquire today to get the booking process started.
