You Had Me From Hello

Smith Family Photography - Southard Wedding Recap
Date: October 7, 2023
Location: Small Country Church in Texas
Weather: Bright Blue Skies

On October 7, 2023, we had the privilege of capturing the beautiful wedding between Amber and Brett at a small country church in Thornton, Texas. The picturesque setting was enhanced by the stunning bright blue skies, creating a magical atmosphere for the couple's special day.

As the day dawned, the excitement in the air was palpable. Amber, radiant in her exquisite gown, walked down the aisle to join Brett, who eagerly awaited her arrival at the altar. The Thornton Methodist Church, adorned with greenery, provided an intimate and romantic backdrop for their union. As Amber and Brett exchanged their heartfelt vows, the sunlight streamed through the stained glass church windows, casting a warm glow on this joyous occasion.

Following the ceremony, the newlyweds and their loved ones ventured to the reception at the Mary Helen Nance Community Center in Thornton, Texas. Amber and Brett arrived on a horse drawn wagon where they were announced as Mr. and Mrs. Southard. Against the bright blue skies, the rustic Texas landscape provided a scenic backdrop, symbolizing the couple's love for their home and heritage.

Throughout the reception, the love and happiness shared by Amber and Brett radiated throughout the room. Love and laughter filled the air as family and friends celebrated the couple's union. As the sun began to set, casting a golden hue over the countryside, we had the opportunity to capture some truly breathtaking sunset portraits. Amber and Brett, hand in hand, against the backdrop of the vibrant Texas skies, showcased their love in a truly magical scene. It was the perfect setting for their bride and groom portraits!

Amber and Brett's wedding day was a testament to the power of love and the beauty of small, personal celebrations. It was an honor for Smith Family Photography to be a part of their special day. Through our lens, we captured not only the smiling faces but also the emotions and the memories that will be cherished for a lifetime.

VENDOR CREDITS

Ceremony Venue: Thornton Methodist Church

Reception Venue: Mary Helen Nance Community Center

Florist: Aunt Carla

Coordinator: Aunt Carla

Cake Artist: Beth Baker and Jennifer Wilson

Catering: family members

Band/DJ: Kayla and Walter Hewitt

Pianist: Dealva Wilson

Bridesmaids Dresses: Amazon

Bridal Gown: David’s Bridal

Groom/Groomsmen Attire: Cavenders

Officiant: Ben Huebner

Ultimate Guide to Wedding Planning in Limestone County

The ring is on your finger and the sparkles are in your eyes! There’s SO much to do to get ready for your big day! Where do you even begin? You should enjoy this journey rather than feel overwhelmed as you plan. By breaking down each step and working through the process step by step it should be far less overwhelming.

Wedding Planning can definitely be overwhelming! I’ve seen it firsthand for many brides. I recently came across a website with an awesome FREE wedding planning checklist that can be helpful for brides - no matter the length of your engagement.

To help further your planning, I have compiled a list of wonderful vendors that service Limestone County. These vendors have been highly recommended by my wonderful brides.

Limestone County Vendors

Venue

• Springfield Hall. Our venue is packed full of charm and character promising you the perfect spot for your big day or any special occasion you are planning. With each booking at Springfield Hall you gain access to our Hall, Patio and Pavilion, giving you the flexibility you need for your unique event. On site we also have a full kitchen available for your catering needs. Please contact our team for pricing and availability.

• Old Fort Parker Historic Site. A historic venue with a visitor center and cabins that can be rented for your guests. Please contact for pricing and availability.

• Groesbeck Convention Center. The City of Groesbeck Convention Center has just opened its new, spacious and modern facilities for all types of Events and Meetings.  The beautifully decorated building consists of a 5000 square foot Grand Hall, a 1300 square foot Club Room and an outside Veranda.  The Groesbeck Convention Center is the largest City Owned facility available for rent, providing a safe and comfortable atmosphere. You can call, text or email the convention center for pricing and availability.

DJ Service

• Colby Blacknall. My name is Colby Blacnall! My DJ name is DJ Huggie Bear and I have been a DJ since 2004. As a wedding DJ, I offer a fun-filled day with non-stop dancing and excitement! In my DJ career I have working more than 100 ceremonies. I come highly recommended and my rates are very reasonable. I offer a variety of music for all events. If you book with me you will not be disappointed! Contact DJ Huggie Bear for your next event - 254-203-8180.

• Willie High. My name is Willie High my DJ name is DJ Guy - High Life Entertainment. I have been offering DJ services for 20 years and have worked over 300 weddings and other events in my career as a DJ. I provide party lighting as well. Contact DJ Guy for your DJ needs.

Catering

• Mookie’s Mesquite Patch BBQ. We are a family owned and ran small barbeque restaurant. We keep a simple, traditional style Texas Barbeque menu with amazing brisket, mouth watering ribs, super delicious sausage and sandwiches. We are full of hometown value and hospitality, we enjoy being a part of the Limestone County Community.

• Farm House Restaurant. Farm House is a locally owned business that has been a full service restaurant and caterer for over 19 years serving some of the finest southern style food at our facility within a 70 mile radius. We offer a Banquet Hall that seats up to 120 people that is separate from the noise of the restaurant. We also have another room, The Party Room, that seats up to 50 people. Both of these can be great for rehearsal dinners and gives the parties the most options for food and beverages! Farm House will come to you and serve your guests through a line making their hot plates while your guests grab their silverware and tea. Once everyone is fed, our staff will bus tables by gathering plates, silverware and refilling drinks. We clean up after ourselves so you don’t have to do any of the work. We can also have servers ready for an additional fee if you’d rather have guests served instead of going through the line. You can contact us by calling 254-472-0512 or 254-855-8161 or by emailing us at farmhousejl@gmail.com

• Billy B’s Sale Barn Cafe. Billy B’s Sale Barn Cafe is locally owned and operated by Billy and Brinda Brown since 1994. We serve southern comfort staples and all is freshly homemade just like grandma would have made. Our atmosphere is very casual - just good country folks! Cattle are auctioned every Thursday. Our friendly staff will greet you at the door with a smile and if you’re a regular, they may have your sweet tea on the table waiting for you. Billy B’s has been nominated business of the year and has won several “best of awards” and has even been featured on The Texas Bucket List. Contact us at 254-729-2253.

• Los Pepe’s - Tex Mex Bar and Grill. Serving Tex-Mex food since 1987. From our family to yours. Contact Erick Mancha for your catering needs.

• 7 Diaz Tacos & More. We are a family owned and operated business. We are based in Teague, but serve Limestone and Freestone County area and events year-round. Our menu consists of authentic Mexican food. Our menu staples are our quesabirria tacos and elote. Chicken or beef fajitas and street tacos are also very popular options. The best way to contact us is via email 7DiazTacos@gmail.com. We would love to serve you!

Bakery

• D’Angelos Homemade Cake & Treats. My name is Brittany D’Angelo. I am a local baker that makes specialty cakes, wedding cakes, event cakes, cake pops, cupcakes, chocolate covered treats and more! I have a cake stand and trays that can be borrowed. I would love to help you out with your special occasion needs! Give me a call at 254-645-0519 or find my page on Facebook - D’Angelos Homemade Goodies

• Katy’s Savory Treats. Hi my name is Katy Farris, I’m the owner of Katy’s Savory Treats. I do everything in my power to make your dream cake come true! My specialties are confetti & red velvet, I also offer cupcakes, cookies and more. And I would be honored to help make your vision come true with any special occasion! Contact me at 254-447-3254 or my page on Facebook at Katy’s Savory Treats.

• My Dream Cakes. Hello! My name is Toni Gonzalez, owner and operator of My Dream Cakes in Mexia TX. I am a baker and cake decorator since 2005. I offer all occasions cakes and cupcakes. My Dream Cakes is on Facebook, all my creations are there, hundreds of cakes that I have made over the years. You can contact me at 818-272-0604

• Baked With Grace Baking Co. Hey y’all, I’m Haley! I started baking as a hobby about 4 years ago and it’s turned into an incredible home baking business. My goal is to have a bakery in our small town at some point in time. My name is not Grace and neither is my middle name, so I’m sure it’s been wondered where that came into play. My Memaws name was Grace, she passed away 7 years ago, and I always associate baking with my Memaw. I have a wonderful supportive husband and 2 wild kiddos that keep me busy in my “spare time”. I do it all from simple "just because" cakes and cookies to weddings with cakes and cupcakes to feed 100’s. I believe everyone needs a little something sweet every now and then just because, I also believe a yummy homemade cake is much more than just a box cake and some icing from a tub. I make everything from scratch and with lots of love. I would love to help with whatever event you have, big or small! Please contact me to discuss your dessert needs!

• Jerri’s Cakes & Treats. I’ve been baking and decorating cakes for 40 plus years. I worked in food service management for over 25 years. I retired in January of 2022 to do my dream job of cakes and treats full time. I bake cakes, cupcakes, cookies for weddings, birthdays and any special occasions. I offer tastings for brides and up to 4 people at no extra charge when ordering their cake. We are located between Mexia and Groesbeck in the Forest Glade Community. For more information please contact me via phone or Facebook.

Makeup and Hair artists

• Hair & Makeup by Meredith McClinton. Hello Beauties! My name is Meredith McClinton and I am so happy you found me on this page! First of all, CONGRATULATIONS on your engagement! I am beyond excited for you and your fiancé for this next step into your lives! I have been a cosmetologist for almost 7 years and have worked well over 100 weddings! I am a makeup artist and hairstylist and can travel to any location. I take my job extremely serious and want this part of wedding planning to be 100% stress free. If you have any questions I would love to hear from you! You can contact me via phone at 254-424-5608, Facebook and Instagram.

• Bella Vida Spa. My name is Kristin Nichols and I own Bella Vida Spa. I am a licensed Esthetician and I offer professional facial services with and medical grade product line called Dermaquest. I also offer various facial services such as microdermabrasion, derma plane and more! Facials to reach your soul, not just your face! Regular facials promote a healthy you - Get Your Glow On! Contact me at 903-644-8459.

• Breathless Beauty Bridal. Hi There! My name is Taylor Johnson and I own “Breathless Beauty Bridal”! Congratulations on your engagement! I would love to be considered for any hair needs. I’m a licensed cosmetologist for 6+ years and specializing in Wedding Hair for 2 years and absolutely LOVE it!! It’s my goal to bring peace and beauty to YOU and your bridal party on your most special day. I travel directly to your location as well. You can contact me through my personal phone number (281) 799-1093 OR my Facebook page “Breathless Beauty Bridal”. I look forward to working with you!

• Chelle’s Beauty Co. Hello all! My name is Asha Dansby. I am a local makeup artist. I truly believe every woman is beautiful, but every now and then it’s okay to enhance that beauty with the power of a little makeup. I decided to turn something I love to do into a side gig and what a wonderful journey it has been. If you decide to choose me as your makeup artist, thank you in advance. I can be contacted at 903-390-4098, Facebook and Instagram. P.S. If you’re also looking to get fit or slimmer before your big day, I am also a certified personal trainer, Fitness With Chelle. I can be contacted at the same number above.

• Make-Up by Giselle. Hi, my name is Giselle Vasquez! Welcome to my world of beauty and transformation! I am a passionate and skilled traveling makeup artist, dedicated to bringing out the best version of you wherever you may be. With years of experience and a keen eye for detail, I specialize in creating stunning looks that enhance your natural features and make you feel confident and radiant. Please contact me to discuss your make-up needs!

• Samsglampro. "Hey there! I'm Samuel Palacios, a Traveling Makeup Maestro with a decade of experience under my belt. I'm all about those wedding vibes, creating dreamy looks that make brides feel like the queens they are. Let's embark on this glam journey together! You can contact me through Facebook at Samsglampro.
  

Videography

• Monica Hurst Productions. “Capturing Your Special Moments to Replay for Forever.” I specialize in wedding videography, lifestyle films, marketing and more. I provide a fun, relaxed experience throughout your big day to ensure the most important moments are captured, the laughter and love throughout the day is heard, and your vision comes to life through a beautiful cinematic film. Bring your wedding day to life over and over with professional audio and video! All wedding packages include 2 videographers. Custom quotes available. Contact us to set up your perfect package via phone at 979-777-8274 or check out our website.

• Wandering Armadillo Productions. I have been doing video work for about 5 years now, most weddings are around 2k, this includes day of wedding shooting, as well as the edit/final video(s). I can also provide full sound production, mics, speakers, DJ services, live band bookings, etc. I also own a venue in downtown Teague (Teague Farmers Market) it’s a 5k square foot outdoor venue with cafe lights strung throughout with a professional sound system. For more information, please contact me at Sidlett@gmail.com or 903-390-3594.

Florist

• Rusty Rose

wedding planner

• Emily Goodson

Mobile bar/bartenders

• The Velvet Vaquera. Hi! My name is Meagan Lott and I am the owner of the Velvet Vaquera Mobile Bar. We specialize in craft cocktails and customer service. With many years in the industry and a reputable business background, we guarantee to provide a memorable experience whatever the occasion might be. It’s always a pleasure to bring the party to your event whether that be with the mobile bar trailer itself or bartenders solely. Contact us today to learn more about our packages, availability, and pricing! Stay Rowdy!

Other vendors

• AJW Leather Works. Howdy! My name is Adam Wasden, I am the owner and leatherman behind AJW Leather Works, but more than likely you will be chatting with my wife when placing your order. We make one of a kind pieces for your upcoming wedding day such as a bouquet wrap, garter, belt for your groomsmen or even an extra touch for your wedding dress. Please contact us on Facebook or 254-275-7358.

If you know of any other vendors that would like to be included in this guide, please feel free to send me their information via email at ajsmithfamilyphotography@gmail.com

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Limestone County Weddings

There are many beautiful weddings that take place in Limestone County! Here are some of my favorites:

• You Had Me From Hello - Amber and Brett

• On My Way to You - Lauren and Kalyn

• Imperishable Beauty - Haley and Brendan

• Together Forever - Bianca and Ricky

• I Met Somebody - Erin and Marc

• Dancing in the Dark - Alena and Luis

• Twin Flame - Lori and John

• Crazy Like You - Jennifer and Matthew

• What a Wonderful Day - Amber and Ryan

• Better Today - Harlee and Zach

• You’re Still the One - Brooke and James

• Happily Ever Masters - Harlie and McKenzie

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Other Helpful Planning Articles

• 5 Tips for the Perfect Backyard Wedding

• 5 Ways to Blend Families with Children at Weddings

• Top 5 Reasons to Have an Engagement Session

• Wedding Day Photography Timeline

• What to Wear: Engagements

• Number One Tip for Planning Your Own Wedding

• No Wedding Planner? No Problem! Five Tips for Your DIY Wedding

• 7 Tips for the Perfect Wedding Day Timeline

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“A wedding is a party, not a performance. If at the end of the day you are married to the one you love, then everything went perfectly.”

— unknown

Gifts for Grandma

Happy 85th Birthday!

On May 19th, I drove across Limestone County to meet a family that was gathering to celebrate their grandmother on her 85th birthday.  It would prove to be a challenge as there were would be three different families and a grand total of twenty-nine family members in the group.  This also includes EIGHT grandsons, all five years old and younger...and two are just months old!  But I do love a challenge!  

Happy 85th Birthday!!

After the whole group portrait, grandma really wanted one photograph with her grandsons...but eight grandsons were not loving this idea at all!  So we just went with it!  

A hilarious peek at the photo with the eight grandsons and grandma.  They were NOT about cooperating for this photograph at all!  

After the photographs were taken, there was still time to capture some candid photos of the family just enjoying the day as they went on the paddle boat, drove little motorized cars, swung on the rope swing, played horseshoes, and disc golf.  Grandma had a constant smile  on her face as she enjoyed the day with her family.  I am glad I was able to be there and capture these memories for everyone.

Happy 75th Birthday!

Almost one month later on April 15th, I drove to Thornton to meet another amazing family that was gathered to celebrate thier grandma's 75th birthday.  This too had a beautiful setting near the water.  There were twenty family members plus one fur baby that came together to celebrate grandma's 75th birthday.  

The whole group photograph of the family celebrating grandma's 75th birthday.

Grandma also expressed to me that the one photograph she really wanted was one with all of her grandchildren.  Unfortunately, there was one granddaughter that could not be at the celebration.

Grandma really wanted a photograph of her with her nine grandchildren.  She has one more granddaughter, but she could not attend unfortunately.  

After all the different photographs were taken, everyone promptly went into the house and changed into different clothes.  It was seriously the quickest I've ever seen a family change!  By the time I walked up to the house they were all changed!!  I hung out with them for awhile and captured some photographs of them just enjoying the company of one another.  

Both grandmas chose FAMILY PORTRAITS as their gift from their family.  These families have so much love for one another and I am beyond blessed that I was able to have the experience of witnessing these celebrations.  I hope both grandmas had a birthday celebration they will never forget.  

Just A Few of My Favorite Locations

I think every photographer has their favorite locations - where they know the lighting, know the location, and secret nooks.  I know I certainly do!  

I get asked quite often where my favorite locations are, which prompted me to put together an Exclusive Client Access Area on my website.  This area has all of my favorite locations, as well as a style guide, wall art inspiration, product care, and frequently asked questions.  You might be asking yourself how you can take a look at that page on my website...and the answer is...after securing your session by paying the required 50% deposit, you will be given a password which will grant you access to this exclusive area.  

I primarily work in two counties in Texas - Limestone and McLennan.  I have several favorite locations in both of these counties, but I am going to share my absolute most favorite location in each of these counties with you now.  

Hands down, my favorite location in Limestone County is a piece of property my husband's family owns near Personville and Donie.  There is a covered bridge, a tin barn, a tire swing, and a cabin.  In the spring, the bluebonnets grow so beautifully and are basically undisturbed.  The covered bridge is perfect for both family and individual photographs.  The tire swing is a "must-do" at this location!  It is perfect for getting people of all ages to smile with a genuine smile.  The porch of the cabin is a favorite among clients because it gives the photographs a feeling of "home."  Since this is private family property, I am the only photographer that has access to this location.

My second favorite location is in McLennan County and is located just outside of Crawford, Texas.  This location is called Tonkawa Falls.  Just as the name implies, there is a waterfall which makes a beautiful backdrop for photographs!  There are plenty of other scenic backdrops as well, such as cliffs, a stone stairwell, a dock type structure, a grove of trees, and a stone wall with a building.  

I am always on the lookout for other locations.  Do you know of some that you'd like to share?