The Marquardt Ranch

Wedding Day

Ceremony

Reception

Tara & Ashten

Daughter of Luis &amp; Ronila Orta Son of Sonya Baker &amp; David Hamilton

Our Wedding

In April 2021, somewhere in the heart of East Texas, a decision was made that would unknowingly change my life forever. Ashten, guided by what we now call God’s timing, moved nearly six hours away to San Antonio for a new job. Little did either of us know, this was the first step on a path that would lead him directly to me. Our story began online in July 2021. Ashten brought the date to me, surprising me with Raising Canes at my workplace, and we had our first date during my short break in his car. Those lunches became our little ritual, a foundation for the deep connection that was beginning to form between us. Introducing Ashten to my family happened almost immediately. They welcomed him with open arms, recognizing the genuine love and respect he showed me from the start. Just two months after we met, Ashten asked me to be his girlfriend during an evening date at the movies. My journey to become a nurse was filled with its own set of challenges, but Ashten stood by me through it all. His support was unwavering, a constant source of strength and encouragement. Our shared faith deepened during this time, becoming a cornerstone of our relationship. It guided us, comforted us, and brought us closer together. On December 8, 2023, just a week before my graduation, Ashten proposed to me atop the Tower of Americas. After a lovely dinner, we looked out over the city lights, and with the night sky as our backdrop, he asked me to marry him. It was a magical moment that perfectly captured our journey and commitment to each other. Graduating from UT Health San Antonio in December 2023 was a significant milestone, not just for me but for us as a couple. It symbolized the challenges we had overcome together and the dreams we had supported each other through. As I look forward to our future, I see more than just our love story; I see a testament to faith, to the belief that there’s a plan for everyone, and sometimes, if you’re as blessed as I am, that plan includes finding someone who completes you in ways you never imagined possible. As Ashten and I begin this new chapter in our lives, I’m filled with gratitude for the journey that brought us here. Our story is one of love, shared values, and mutual support, and as we prepare to walk down the aisle, I’m reminded that the best is yet to come. “I have found the one whom my soul loves.” - Song of Solomon 3:4

Our Story

Photos

Kaitlin and I met in Okinawa, Japan, where our lives as military brats intertwined. Despite the constant moves and the uncertainty that comes with military life, our friendship never wavered—it flourished. When the time came for college, Kaitlin moved from Japan to Texas, choosing to attend UTSA alongside me. This journey from 7th grade to now has seen us transition from the hallways of middle school to the rigorous paths of our careers—Kaitlin as an accountant and myself as a nurse. Together, we have navigated every challenge and celebrated every achievement. Kaitlin has been my rock, my constant in a sea of change, always there with a laugh or a shoulder to lean on. Her spirit, resilience, and unwavering support have shaped me in ways words can hardly express. As we step into this new chapter of my life, I can think of no one better to have as my maid of honor.

Kaitlin Williams

Ashley and I first met during the first Christmas I spent with Ashten and his family, and from that moment, she welcomed me with open arms. Her kindness, warmth, and unwavering support have meant the world to me, making me feel like part of the family from the very start. Beyond her love and encouragement, Ashley has also opened her home to us, always making sure we feel comfortable and cared for whenever we visit. Her generosity and genuine heart are just a few of the many things I admire about her. I feel so incredibly lucky to not only call her a friend but soon a sister, and I couldn’t be more excited for the bond we will continue to build. Having her by my side on this special day is truly an honor, and I am so grateful to have her in my life.

Ashley Baker

Anna and I met during our first semester of nursing school. From the moment we were grouped together in clinicals, our friendship blossomed, and we became each other's support system through the ups and downs of nursing school. We spent countless hours studying together, celebrating victories, and overcoming challenges side by side. Our bond grew even stronger when I had the honor of being a bridesmaid in her May 2025 wedding. I'm grateful to have her by my side once again, returning the favor as she stands beside me on my special day.

Anna Fling

Johna’e and I met during my college days at the UTSA campus Chick-fil-A. What started as shifts behind the counter quickly blossomed into a lifelong friendship that transcended fast food orders. From shared laughter at work to spending summers sleeping over at each other's homes, our friendship only grew. Johna’e has become an integral part of my life, spending holidays with my family and even affectionately calling my parents "mom" and "dad." Her friendship and support mean the world to me, and I'm beyond grateful to have her by my side on my special day.

Johna'e Mapp

I met Priscilla just a few months ago when I was floating to her unit, but in that short time, our friendship has grown in ways I never expected. We quickly connected over shared experiences at work, and when we realized we lived just a mile apart, our friendship only strengthened. From carpooling home to unwinding over post-work meals, she has become such a bright and supportive presence in my life. Even though our friendship is new, it already feels like one that will last a lifetime, and I’m so excited to have her by my side on my wedding day.

Priscilla Quinones

Alianna and I first met at church. What began as a connection through faith quickly blossomed into a beautiful friendship that extended beyond church walls. Alianna has been not only a source of spiritual guidance but also an amazing workout buddy and a go-to friend for Godly advice. Her support and genuine friendship mean the world to me. Having stood by her side for her wedding in January 2025, I'm overjoyed to have her return the favor on my special day.

Alianna Smith

From preschool days in East Texas to countless basketball games, D has been more than a friend; he’s family. Growing up together, his home was my second home, where I learned as much from his family as from my own. Whether we were shooting hoops or just hanging out, D has been an integral part of my life, helping shape who I am today. His influence extended to my educational path as well; it was D who convinced me to attend Tyler Junior College, playing a pivotal role in my decision to pursue higher education. His support and guidance have been indispensable every step of the way.

Davieon McGowan

Adriel, Tara’s younger brother, and I bonded over our shared interests in basketball and gaming. His easy-going nature made it incredibly easy to feel welcomed and valued in the family. I've enjoyed being able to lend a hand with some of his classes. Being there to support him in his academic pursuits has been truly fulfilling.

Adriel Orta

Meeting LJ, Tara’s older brother, was a big deal for me, and from day one, he made me feel like part of the family. Since we met in December 2021, we’ve bonded over video games and a bunch of shared interests. He’s also the only person outside of my usual barber that I’ve ever let cut my hair, a true testament to his talent, considering how picky I am about who touches it. Having that kind of trust and connection with him has meant a lot, and his easygoing nature made it effortless to settle in.

LJ Orta

Walter and I met while working at EY through a mutual friend. When we first connected, he kept trying to get me to go to after-work events. I wasn’t really feeling it at first, but he was persistent. Eventually, I gave in, and I’m glad I did. From there, our friendship grew naturally.At work, he once beat me in a race (I haven’t forgotten, lol), and we’ve had push-up competitions that somehow became a regular thing. Beyond the fun and laughs, Walter’s been like a mentor to me. He’s someone I’ve always looked up to, hardworking, driven, and successful, even at a young age. His ambition and mindset have motivated me to keep pushing for more. We’ve spent time hanging out outside of work, especially hooping together, and he’s been there for me in moments when I really needed someone. It means a lot to have Walter by my side on this day! 

Walter Sekula

Carlos and I have shared a neighborhood and a passion for sports since childhood. He introduced me to the intricacies of car mechanics, turning it into a hobby I still pursue. As workout buddies, we’ve pushed each other to our limits and beyond, strengthening a friendship built on mutual respect and shared interests. Carlos’s exceptional work ethic has not only inspired me in our personal pursuits but also motivated me to think seriously about my career path. His dedication and drive are qualities I admire and strive to emulate in my professional life.

Carlos Velazquez

Martin and I met while working at EY, but our friendship really took off when he shared his breakfast tacos with me, and we started playing ping pong at the office. For about a month straight, we had uncontrollable laughter over inside jokes that no one else at work understood. Martin has been pushing me to take my fitness and diet more seriously, though I haven’t exactly listened yet. One day, I hope to be as disciplined as he is. He also introduced me to country music, specifically Morgan Wallen, and now country has become one of my most-played genres. I have Martin to thank for that (or blame, depending on the day).

Martin Villarreal

Wedding Party

Jess & Freda Arceo   Arnold & Christine Balles   Arnold & Lallie Ballesteros   Paul & Nellie Boseman   Presentacion Buenaluz   Kyle & Rose Burditt   Mark & Gretchen Calderon   Jaymark & Del Cedrome   Mark & Maria Theresa Famero   Jun & Evelyn Fermin   Robin & Dr. Dinah George   Robert & Loreta Gusman   Noel & Isabel La Guardia   Jun & Tita Liberato   Robert & Joyce Mamaril   Edgardo & Elsa Mendoza   Reuel & Marigrace Salonga   Rodney & Charito Zerna