“Love doesn’t make the world go round. Love is what makes the ride worthwhile.” ”

— Elizabeth Barnett Browning

Some love stories begin with grand gestures, others with a simple message. For Rylee and Garrett, it all started with a Snapchat.

Rylee was visiting a friend in Utah when Garrett, sitting nearly 1,200 miles away in Waco, Texas, sent her a message. A spark flew through the digital space between them, and from that moment on, something just clicked. What began as a spontaneous connection turned into a love story full of laughter, adventure, and deep, unwavering support.

Their very first date? Bowling. It set the tone for their relationship perfectly—lighthearted, fun, and a little bit competitive. It quickly became their go-to date night activity, a tradition that stuck with them over the years. Whether they were celebrating, blowing off steam, or just craving a little friendly rivalry, you could probably find them at the lanes, laughing over gutter balls and strikes alike.

Another shared love? The Texas Rangers. Rylee and Garrett make it a point to attend at least two or three games every season. It’s one of their favorite ways to spend time together, surrounded by the electric energy of the ballpark. But one particular game will always stand out.

It was meant to be their final Rangers game of the season, and they had brought everyone along. As the group took turns snapping photos in front of the iconic Texas Rangers sign, Garrett turned to Rylee and asked if they could get a couple of just the two of them. They smiled for the camera, took a silly photo like they always did—and then Rylee turned to find Garrett on one knee.

In the middle of the crowd, surrounded by people they loved and a place that held so many memories, he asked her to marry him. And she said yes.

That same joyful energy carried over to their wedding day on March 14, 2025 at the stunning Deerfield Estates in Waco. The spring breeze was bold that day, rustling through the trees. While some might have seen the wind as a challenge, Rylee and Garrett embraced it—it was just another part of the adventure.

Rylee, radiant in her gown, walked down the aisle toward Garrett with a smile that lit up the whole venue. Garrett, full of emotion, watched the love of his life come closer with every step. Their ceremony was heartfelt and personal, echoing the core of who they are: compassionate, silly, adventurous, respectful, and deeply supportive.

Everyone who knows them can see it—how Rylee loves Garrett’s warm personality and the pureness of his heart, and how Garrett lights up at Rylee’s infectious silliness. They bring out the best in each other, constantly cheering one another on, whether it’s in the bowling alley, at the ballpark, or just navigating life’s everyday moments.

The reception that followed was cozy and full of joy, tucked safely inside the charming walls of Deerfield’s event space. Laughter echoed as everyone celebrated Garrett and Rylee becoming Mr. and Mrs. Martin.

Rylee and Garrett’s wedding wasn’t just a celebration of where they’ve been—it was a glimpse into everything they’ll continue to build together. A life full of fun, shared passions, goofy photos, and pure-hearted love.

Congratulations to the new Mr. and Mrs. from Smith Family Photography! Your story is already something special—and it's only just beginning.

Vendor credits

Venue: Deerfield Estates Venue

Cake: HEB

Catering: Tony DeMaria’s Bar-b-que

Bridal Gown: Joann’s Bridal

Bridesmaid Dresses: Azazie

Groom’s Attire: Modern Man

Groomsmen Attire: Modern Man

Hair Artist: Heather Rodgers

Florist: Rylee’s Grandmother

Officiant and DJ: Rylee’s Grandfather

“You only get one life. It’s actually your duty to live it as fully as possible.”

— Jojo Moyes, Me Before You

Ashley and Oscar exchanged vows at Deerfield Estates in Waco, Texas on February 12, 2022. It was extremely cold that day - freezing as a matter of fact! There were even reports of nearby sightings of snow flurries! But this was not going to change Ashley’s mind about having an outdoor wedding.

Where It All Began…

Ashley and Oscar met online where they frequently talked and got to know each other. Eventually they went on their first date which consisted of watching a movie and then going out to dinner. They continued learning about each other as they fell deeper in love with one another. One day, Oscar and Ashley were visiting a park when “IT” happened - Oscar PROPOSED!!

Oscar’s proposal to Ashley (screenshot of the video)

From the moment these met, it was nothing short of amazing. They both say that the first meeting was truly “just love at first sight.”

A typical date night for Ashley and Oscar involve spending time together watching a movie and enjoying dinner afterwards. These two are definitely meant for each other and compliment each other perfectly! I was fortunate enough to spend time with Ashley on a few occasions before her wedding day. We first met at her brother’s wedding and then later I was able to get to know her more during her senior photo session. I love spending time with Ashley! She is gorgeous, extremely genuine and adventurous - and full of smiles! When she asked me to be the photographer for her wedding, I couldn’t wait to spend time with her again. But I also wanted to meet her fiancé. If Ashley fell in love with him, he must be a great guy that makes her an even better person.

In October the two of them had their engagement session so I was able to get to spend time with them and watch them interact with one another. It was obvious the two were smitten with one another, but it was deeper than that. They truly care for one another. Oscar is incredibly kind and caring and puts others first. He makes sure Ashley, as well as others, are taken care of. He is a hard worker and is passionate about his job within the military. He makes sure he is showing Ashley just how much he loves her through his calm, gentle demeanor. Ashley knows how important his job is and is able to work around that part of Oscar’s life. She admires him for all he does for her, as well as others. She loves how selfless he is. Oscar says Ashley is amazing and so funny. He loves how Ashley loves him and wants him to succeed in all that he does.

October 2021 - Ashley and Oscar during their engagement session

The Wedding…

Oscar and Ashley’s dream vacation is a cozy cabin in the woods with snow falling outside as they’re snuggled up under cozy blankets enjoying a cup of hot chocolate. Knowing this makes so much about their wedding day on February 12th make sense!

The temperature outside was literally freezing and Ashley wanted to be barefoot during the ceremony - which was outside. It was so cold as we waited for the ceremony to begin, however after Ashley and Oscar were in place at the altar it suddenly didn’t feel quite as cold outside. Witnessing the two of them promise to love each other forever took your mind off the weather. What was happening right in front of us was certainly heartwarming!

Ashley and Oscar are truly blessed to have such a strong family support system behind them. Oscar’s parents are divorced, but have remarried. His parents both remarried wonderful people who care deeply for Oscar and Ashley. They sit together, talk together, and just enjoy being around each other. You’d never know they went through a divorce. The amount of respect they all have for one another is breathtaking.

As the day progressed, everyone on both sides of the family just intermingled as if they were one big family celebrating Ashley and Oscar. It was truly amazing to witness. The two of them are definitely made for each other ❤