Emily Jo Shelton

Good afternoon, everyone. We gather here today to celebrate the love of Austin and Haley, and the lifelong commitment they are choosing to make to one another. If there’s one thing we’ve all learned leading up to today, it’s that life doesn’t always go according to plan. Some faces we love can’t be here, a few details took unexpected turns — and yet, here we are. Because love doesn’t wait for perfect timing. Love shows up — messy, real, and resilient. And today, that’s what we’re celebrating: the love Haley and Austin share, the patience that’s carried them here, and the strength that keeps them choosing each other through it all. I’ve known Haley and Austin for about a year and a half, and in that time they’ve shown me, and my kids, what genuine kindness looks like. They welcomed us into their circle with warmth and open arms — no hesitation, just love. And that’s exactly who they are with each other: steady, thoughtful, and endlessly caring. Their love isn’t loud or performative — it’s grounded. It’s the kind of love that makes a house feel like home, that holds steady when things get hard, and that finds laughter even on the rough days. Weddings are often imagined as perfect moments, but the truth is, the most meaningful ones rarely go exactly as planned. They’re shaped by what’s real — by the small moments of honesty, patience, and humor that make a partnership truly last. And that’s what today was about. Not everything went perfectly, but the heart of it never changed. Haley and Austin showed up for each other — and that’s what love, and marriage, are all about. As they exchanged vows and rings, they promised to keep choosing one another through every change and challenge, to let their love remain soft yet strong, fragile yet enduring — a living bond that grows and deepens with time. By the power entrusted to me through American Marriage Ministries, and with the love and support of everyone present, it was my greatest privilege to pronounce them husband and wife. Austin kissed his bride, and we all celebrated the moment that no chaos could undo. Because in the end, the beauty of this day wasn’t in perfection — it was in presence, devotion, and the steady choice to love, again and again. Congratulations to the newlyweds, Mr. and Mrs. Ward.