Member, Professional Photographers of America

the barn

Treasure

On August 17, 2024, Payton and Shawnna exchanged their vows at The Barn in Lorena, Texas, on a sweltering summer day. Surrounded by family and friends, the couple embraced the warmth of the season as they celebrated their love amidst rustic charm and natural beauty. The sun filtered through The Barn’s windows, casting a warm glow on the elegant wildflower arrangements that adorned the venue. Laughter and joy filled the air as the couple took their first steps into a lifetime together, creating memories that would be cherished for years to come.

Love is a treasure for which we can never pay. The only way we keep it is to give it away.
— Jim Stovall

How it all began…

Payton and Shawnna met about three years ago while working at Walmart, where their shifts rarely overlapped—Payton on the second shift and Shawnna on the third. It was during one late evening that Payton mustered the courage to approach Shawnna, introducing himself amid the bustle of aisles and customers. That simple interaction sparked a connection that would grow into a beautiful relationship. Since that day, every moment they have shared has felt like a dream come true, as they continue to support and inspire each other in their personal and professional lives.

Payton and Shawnna finally embarked on their first date, enjoying lunch at Whataburger, conveniently located just down the road from the Walmart where they both worked. After their meal, they decided to take a stroll in Woodway Park, creating an inviting atmosphere for deeper conversation. As they talked, they discovered that they shared similar opinions on a variety of topics, which fostered an effortless connection between them. Their ease of communication highlighted a promising bond, making the afternoon not just a simple lunch but the beginning of something meaningful.

Eventually, Payton would propose to Shawnna at Woodway Park, the very place where their journey together had begun on their first date. Surrounded by the familiar sights and sounds that had witnessed their initial moments of joy and discovery, Payton carefully chose a quiet spot evoking memories of laughter and shared dreams. With a heart full of love and anticipation, he presented a ring that symbolized not just a promise, but a future entwined with all the beautiful experiences they had yet to share. As Shawnna looked into his eyes, the park transformed into a canvas of their love story, marking the beginning of a new chapter in their lives.

Their relationship today…

Payton and Shawnna often find themselves debating their dinner options, usually landing on Whataburger or Chick-Fil-A. Once they've satisfied their cravings, they head to Andy's Frozen Custard in downtown Waco to indulge in a sweet treat. The vibrant atmosphere allows them to enjoy a dessert while engaging in a little people-watching, soaking in the lively interactions around them. Their routine has become a cherished tradition that blends good food with delightful moments spent together.

Their relationship can be described as a remarkable combination of excitement, trust, compassion, humor, and an enduring quality that seems to defy time. Each moment spent together is filled with laughter and light-heartedness, balancing deeper conversations that reveal an unwavering support for one another. This bond fosters a unique comfort that feels unmatched, allowing them to truly be themselves without fear of judgment. In each other’s presence, they find a safe haven where shared experiences and memories create a tapestry of love and friendship that only grows stronger through the years.

Smith Family Photography wishes Payton and Shawnna a lifetime of happiness as they embark on this beautiful journey of marriage. May each day be filled with love, laughter, and cherished moments that strengthen the bond between you. As you create a shared path together, may your hearts always find joy in the little things and support each other through every challenge. Congratulations on this wonderful new chapter in your lives!

Vendor credits

Venue: The Barn - Lorena, Texas

Florist: The Wild Flower - China Spring, Texas

Cake Artist: Nothing Bundt Cakes - Waco, Texas

Catering: Dubl-R Old Fashioned Hamburgers - Waco, Texas

Bridal Gown: JoAnn’s Bridal - West, Texas

Bridesmaid Dresses: JoAnn’s Bridal - West, Texas

DJ: Fast Freddy

Officiant: Pastor Kelsey Fitting-Snyder of St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church

There's A Rumor Going 'Round

We fell in love, despite our differences, and once we did, something rare and beautiful was created.
— The Notebook

On a serendipitous day in 2020, Elizabeth and Aram's love story began when they connected through a TikTok message. Their virtual sparks ignited into a deep connection, ultimately leading to a heartfelt proposal in the Valentine aisle at a local Wal-Mart. Aram was dressed in his finest camouflage attire as Elizabeth’s best friend, Kristy, was in tow.

October 14, 2023, was the perfect date for the two of them to become Mr. and Mrs. George! Afterall, it was the third anniversary of Elizabeth sending Aram that very first message on TikTok. Surrounded by the rustic charm of The Barn in Lorena, Texas, they celebrated their love with an intimate ceremony.

Against the backdrop of the rustic decor found within The Barn, which was sprinkled with pumpkins and other fall foliage, Elizabeth and Aram exchanged heartfelt vows, solidifying their commitment to a lifetime of love and happiness. It was a day filled with laughter, tears, and an abundance of love, marking the beginning of a beautiful new chapter as they embarked on the journey of marriage together.

vendor credits

Venue: The Barn

Cake Artist: Nothing Bundt Cakes

Catering: Tony’s Taste of Texas

Bridal Gown: David’s Bridal

Bridesmaids Dresses: David’s Bridal

Groom and Groomsmen Attire: Cavenders

Make-Up Artist: Taryn Abel

Hair Artist: Taryn Abel

Invitations: Etsy

Officiant: John Ledbetter

Laugh Forever

The goal is to laugh forever with someone you take serious.
— unknown

October 15, 2022. The day Emily and Justin exchanged vows in Hewitt, Texas at The Barn was absolutely gorgeous! The skies were a bright blue with puffy white clouds that floated by with the breeze.

Emily and Justin met at church and had their first date on Halloween night. The two of them had such a great time that they continued their relationship and learned as much as they could about each other. Most of the time this entailed enjoying each others company while relaxing as they shared their love of delicious meals.

Emily and Justin went on a trip to the Fredericksburg area and stayed in a cabin and during this trip, Justin would propose. They visited a flower garden (Emily used to work in a plant and flower nursery) and Justin proposed. Emily said, “Yes!”

Since that proposal in the flower garden, Emily and Justin have continued enjoying each others company and sense of humor. During their engagement session I had a front seat view of how much they love and care for each other. The two of them shared many laughs together and that was also visible at their wedding.

April 2022 - Emily and Justin’s engagement session

Emily even played a little trick on Justin during the garter toss during their reception! As Justin removed the garter from Emily’s leg, he felt a small bag. His face said, “What is this?” as he expected to find one thing - a garter. He pulled the garter off her leg and saw a snack size Cheetos bag with the garter! Emily was laughing the entire time! And Justin joined her after looking at the bag of Cheetos!

Although they share lots of laughs with each other, they share lots of love for each other, their family and their friends. Emily’s cousin’s 11th birthday was the day of the wedding. Emily surprised him by having everyone sing to him while Emily brought him a piece of cake with a candle in it.

Emily and Justin’s love for each other is what it is because they trust one another, love one another and have compassion for one another all while being spontaneous and having fun spending time together.

CREDITS

Ceremony Venue: The Barn, Hewitt, Texas

Reception Venue: The Barn, Hewitt, Texas

Cake Artist: Sweetness Desserts, Waco, Texas

Catering: George’s

DJ: DJ Betty

Hair Artist: On the Avenue

Make-Up Artist: On the Avenue

Bridesmaids Dresses: David’s Bridal

Bridal Gown: Georgio’s

Men’s Attire: Kohls

Officiant: Lester Adams

Stationary/Invitations: Zazzle

Tale As Old As Time

Gareth and Sarah exchanged vows at The Barn in Lorena, Texas on March 31, 2022. It was a gorgeous day for a wedding complete with a perfect golden sunset as the backdrop for their wedding ceremony.

Where it all began…

In October of 2020 Sarah traveled from Ohio to Central Texas to visit family. During this visit she would meet Gareth at a gospel meeting. The two exchanged phone numbers and began texting one another. When Sarah’s visit came to an end, she went back home to Ohio and the two continued to talk constantly. They even managed to have dates via FaceTime! Their first FaceTime date involved watching the live action Mulan movie followed by talking until after midnight.

Over the next few months they would continue communicating until she moved to Texas in March of 2021. This is when they had their first in-person date. The pair went to dinner at Baris in Waco, Texas. Sarah was incredibly nervous and became sick. They had to end the date early.

The proposal…

Gareth planned on asking Sarah to marry him at the Columbus Zoo over Thanksgiving when they were visiting her family back in Ohio. But that’s not what happened - Gareth couldn’t wait that long! In October of 2021 he went to visit his parents at their house and when he got back he was acting really fidgety and anxious. The next day after church Gareth called Sarah’s sister on FaceTime and proposed in the living room. He said he couldn’t wait another minute!

Sarah and Gareth…

They enjoy spending time with each other as they eat dinner and watch movies. In fact, they told me that the movie that represents their life together is Beauty and the Beast because they both look past the other’s shortcomings and “ugliness” to see the beauty and potential in one another. Sarah loves Gareth’s ability to make her laugh when she feels like crying and Gareth loves seeing Sarah smile.

Sarah and Gareth have a special relationship - one that is built on honesty and strengthened by an endearing love for each other, as well as their family and friends. Throughout their wedding day it was evident that their family and the gospel are an integral part of their lives. With these at the center of their relationship, Sarah and Gareth’s marriage will flourish.

Love each other like the members of your family. Be the best at showing honor to each other.
— Romans 12:10

Sarah and Gareth, you are both incredibly genuine souls - you care about others so much and you’re able to meet each other’s needs, as well as your own, while being mindful about the feelings of your family and friends. Your first dance was a beautiful moment between you two and I am beyond blessed that I was there to capture that moment in time.

Vendors

Venue: The Barn

Bridal Gown: David’s Bridal

Bridesmaid Dresses: David’s Bridal

Groom and Groomsmen Attire: Men’s Wearhouse

Cake: Ester Heflin

Catering: Hansom Hog

Hair and Make-up Artist: Waco Color Studio

Invitations: Zazzle