page 126 X metropolitan weddings
X Summer / fall 2024
written by | Tonya Shoats photographed by | Shelby ChantÉ photography
High school hallways
Sophia and Braden ' s love story spanned years , beginning in their junior year at Nixa High School in southwest Missouri . Fate brought them together in an English class : Sophia , always seated at the front , ready to answer any question , and Braden , preferring the silent solitude of the back , initially exchanged few words . However , their shared involvement in the theater department sparked a connection that blossomed into a relationship . Graduating in 2021 , they embarked on a journey that would reveal the true meaning of commitment and resilience . Their college plans initially took them in different directions , prompting a brief separation . In 2020 , they decided to part ways but their hearts remained intertwined , proving the old adage that absence makes the heart grow fonder . In May 2021 , they reunited , realizing they couldn ' t bear to be apart . Over the years , Sophia pursued her dreams of becoming an English teacher while Braden worked fulltime , awaiting his chance to study aviation . Their love stood firm as they supported each other ' s aspirations .
The secret to their success through trials is simple : “ We found enjoyment in the small things . Whether we were just driving down the road or cooking dinner at home , we loved spending time together .” The proposal came on a significant day , which happened to be the same date that , two years earlier , they had decided to break up . Now that day would be remembered as the day she said , “ Yes !” With family members present to witness the heartfelt moment at Finley Farms , Sophia and Braden embarked on a new chapter of their journey together . Sophia reflected on that period , “ It was just really nice . Throughout the entire engagement , we were excited about being together and ready to start our lives .”
When it was time to begin wedding planning , it became a collaborative effort , with Sophia ' s sister , Kimmy , taking on the role of wedding planner . “ She knew everyone who would be a great fit for us , and she was a big help throughout ,” Sophia praised . With Kimmy ' s expertise , they navigated decisions effortlessly , ensuring every detail reflected their personalities . From choosing a sage green and burnt orange color palette to selecting vendors who understood their vision , Sophia and Braden ' s wedding day mirrored their love for simplicity and authenticity .
Their wedding , held at Sparrow Lane in Willard , Missouri , was an intimate affair surrounded by close friends and family . Family played a central role in their special day . " The venue held sentimental value , as it was where my mom and stepdad got married ," Sophia explained . “ I fell in love with the venue at their wedding , so when we talked about venues , Braden and I knew it was a no-brainer !”
Having her brother officiate the ceremony and her younger brother walk her down the aisle made the day even more special . The reception echoed their laid-back style , with pizza from Big Slice and milkshakes from Simply Delicious adding familiarity to the celebration . Amidst heartfelt speeches and cherished moments with loved ones , Sophia and Braden savored every moment of their wedding day . Some of the most precious memories for the newlyweds were seeing each other for the “ first look ,” beholding tears of joy from sentimental family members , and knowing that their beloved was standing next to them throughout it all .
Their love story is a testament to understanding , compromise , and unwavering support . Through life ' s ups and downs , Sophia and Braden remained steadfast in their commitment to each other . Sophia reflected on the foundation of their relationship , " Braden and I balanced each other out . He was calm and collected , while I was more spontaneous . But at the end of the day , we always did what was best for each other and for us as a couple ." If you were to ask Braden ' s thoughts on the matter , he would agree that loving one another was probably the easiest thing they could ever do . As they embarked on the journey of marriage , their love continued to be their guiding light . From high school classrooms to the school of life , these two were certainly at the top of their class ! Xxoxo