Willow Woods Barn + Studio

Wedding Day

Ceremony

Reception

Our Wedding

Our Love Story Who would’ve thought that a checkered pasts and a church pew could lead to such a beautiful future? Shaunta and Chris first met at New Beginnings at Mountain View Community Church, where for over a year, Shaunta sat one row behind Chris—sharing only friendly smiles, polite “good mornings,” and warm church hugs. Neither of them could have imagined that in just a year and a half, they wouldn’t just be fellow church members… they’d be husband and wife. Enter Co-Pastor Homer the Third—Chris’s friend of 29 years and Shaunta’s brother-in-law of 11 years. Known for his big heart and a little matchmaking flair, Homer saw something divine long before either of them did. What Chris and Shaunta didn’t know was that Homer and his wife Kayla already had plans to make this happen. One Sunday after service, as people were leaving the church parking lot, Homer pointed toward a car pulling away and asked Chris,“What do you think about that woman right there?”Chris smiled and said, “She’s beautiful.”With a big grin, Homer replied, “Beautiful? She’s more than beautiful—she’s FINE!” They both laughed, but then Homer leaned in with a playful glint in his eye and said,“Wouldn’t you want to be my brother-in-law?”Chris chuckled and said, “Whoa, man… that’s a little fast! But yeah, I’d love to be your brother-in-law. You’re like family.” And right there, without even realizing it, the Lord began weaving a story of love, laughter, and purpose. Being the co-pastor, Homer knew both of their hearts well. He told Shaunta that he thought Chris was exactly the kind of man she had been praying for—a man of faith, integrity, and kindness. Homer even knew about the list of expectations and values Shaunta had written down and tucked inside her Bible—her private prayers for the husband she hoped God would one day send. Won’t God do it. Although they worked together on several church ministries, Shaunta and Chris remained simply friends—until the day Chris finally got the courage to ask,“Can I call you?”Shaunta teased, “You already have my number.”Chris smiled and said again, “Yeah, but can I call you… call you?” From that moment on, everything changed. Their first date was a sushi dinner followed by a magical Christmas Eve trolley ride through glowing holiday lights. Their second date, on New Year’s Eve, ended with their first kiss—on a rooftop under the fireworks, ringing in a brand-new year together. From then on, they were inseparable—sharing countless concerts, dinners, adventures, and island getaways. Together, they’ve been living their best life and painting the town red. After being embraced by Shaunta’s family as “Uncle Chris,” he took the next step—asking both her son, Joshua, and her father, Augusta, for their blessing. Chris will never forget her father’s powerful words: “You can go to the highest mountain and the lowest part of the sea and never find a woman better than Shaunta.” With that blessing, Chris planned an unforgettable proposal on the beach of St. Croix in the Virgin Islands—complete with a private photographer, a romantic dinner on the sand, and the most important moment of all:Shaunta said YES. Now, with faith as their foundation and love as their compass, they’re ready to begin the next chapter—as husband and wife. Because what began as two people in separate church pews turned into a divine love story—proof that when God’s in it, the best is yet to come.

Our Story

Photos

Homer Thomas, III - OfficiatorYevette BradleyKayla ThomasSherry CarsonRachell LaweranceVeronica HardyKara DotsonAngelique WilliamsToni ShouldersEverly DeWall (Flower Girl)Zyleigh Yancy (Flower Girl)Joshua RussellKeith ShouldersChris EdwardsJames (Dusty) BrimageMatt DavidsonErek TreadwellJason WatsonVashon WilliamsHouston Thomas (Ring Bearer)Judah Duckett (Ring Bearer)

Wedding Party

Located in Mansfield, 14 miles from Globe Life Park in Arlington, SpringHill Suites by Marriott Dallas Mansfield has accommodations with a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a fitness center and a shared lounge. With free WiFi, this 3-star hotel offers a 24-hour front desk and an ATM. The property provides a business center and luggage storage space for guests. Guests at the hotel can enjoy a buffet breakfast. Six Flags Over Texas is 14 miles from SpringHill Suites by Marriott Dallas Mansfield, while AT&amp;T Stadium is 15 miles from the property. Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport is 22 miles away.

Springhill Suites Dallas Mansfield

Dallas Love Field

Dallas Fort Worth International Airport

Located 13 miles from AT&amp;T Stadium, Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott Dallas Mansfield offers 3-star accommodations in Mansfield and has free bikes. The property is around 14 miles from Globe Life Park in Arlington, 16 miles from Six Flags Over Texas and 18 miles from Fort Worth Convention Center. The hotel has an indoor pool, fitness center and a 24-hour front desk. Guests at the hotel can enjoy a buffet breakfast. At Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott Dallas Mansfield guests are welcome to use a hot tub. Dickies Arena is 21 miles from the accommodation, while Dallas Zoo is 28 miles from the property. Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport is 24 miles away.

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Dallas Mansfield

Travel

Things to Do

Registry

Guide to Wedding-Appropriate Casual Attire

What to Wear to a Backyard Wedding

How to Level-Up Casual Wedding Attire

Our colors for the wedding are shades of purple and grey; with a taste of country. Ladies you don't have to wear heels but a comfortable shoe. Men you can wear, black jeans, nice shirt and cowboy boots if you like.

Dress Code

We are absolutely thrilled if you bless us with your presence, your thoughts and/or your prayers. As we are combining two households should you wish to bless us to mark this occasion we are kindly asking for cash or gift cards in lieu of actual gifts. Thank you for your understanding. CashApp: $RussellSS37 and Zelle (571)762-8142

Shaunta & Christopher

Shaunta & Christopher

S&C

Wedding Day

Reception