From Bandmates to Soulmates: Payten & Derek at The Barn on Enchanted Acres
Updated: Oct 29
From Marching Band to Marriage
Payten & Derek, now Mr. & Mrs. East, met in marching band at Bowling Green State University. Their friendship grew over time, and a road trip to Utah turned it into dating. After their graduation ceremony, Derek proposed to Payten at Bowling Green, and they started their next chapter as a couple.
Hearing about Payten & Derek’s shared love for music and their time as drum majors made us so excited to capture their story. Their connection rooted in marching band brought a unique harmony to their relationship that we couldn’t wait to document.
Payten & Derek’s Engagement at the Cleveland Museum of Art
Payten & Derek’s engagement session at the Cleveland Museum of Art was a beautiful blend of elegance and personality. The museum’s grand architecture provided the perfect backdrop for their love story, balancing classic art with their fun and vibrant connection. They brought such warmth and playfulness to every shot, and their love for each other was evident in every glance and laugh.
During their engagement session, a sudden rain shower added an unexpected touch of romance to the day. Instead of dampening the mood, it highlighted their connection beautifully, capturing a genuine and heartfelt side of their relationship. Those rainy shots became some of our favorites, adding a unique beauty and timeless quality to their story.
Love in Full Bloom: Payten & Derek's Wedding Day at Enchanted Acres
Getting Ready in the Cabin
Payten & Derek got married on a beautiful June day in Dennison, Ohio, at The Barn on Enchanted Acres. Their day began in a charming log cabin nestled in the woods, where Payten and her bridesmaids got ready while, downstairs, Derek and the groomsmen played Mario Kart before the ceremony. It was a perfect start to a day full of laughter and love.
An Outdoor Ceremony Under a Stormy Sky
As the ceremony time approached, the sky grew dark and rain seemed close, but Payten & Derek decided to go ahead with their outdoor ceremony at Enchanted Acres. It turned out to be the right call: as they exchanged their vows, the dramatic sky made a striking backdrop, and for a brief moment the sun broke through the clouds and cast a golden glow on them. The woodland setting at Enchanted Acres made a beautiful place for their vows.
Portraits with Their Instruments
Right after Payten & Derek's ceremony, the rain finally arrived, so we headed inside to capture some intimate moments with their instruments. The couple’s love for music made these shots even more special, and it was the perfect way to take a brief pause from the weather. Just as we wrapped up, the rain stopped, and we were able to head back outside.
Sunset Portraits After the Rain
The timing couldn’t have been better. The views at Enchanted Acres looked even better in the fresh air after the rain, and the open landscape gave us room for more portraits as the evening light came back.
A Big, Fun Bridal Party
Payten & Derek’s bridal party was such a fun group. With so many people involved, there was never a dull moment, and their energy made the day even more memorable. From laughter to lighthearted moments, we had a blast capturing the excitement and joy they all shared. The bridal party's closeness made for some special photos, and it was clear how much fun they had celebrating Payten & Derek.
The Reception at Enchanted Acres
The reception at Enchanted Acres was filled with joy, as Payten & Derek’s loved ones gathered to celebrate their new life together. The atmosphere was lively, with good food, heartfelt speeches and a busy dance floor. Payten & Derek shared their first dance under soft lighting, a quiet moment before the party kicked into full gear. The energy in the room was contagious, and it was the perfect way to end their day.
A Day Full of Music and Love
Payten & Derek’s wedding day was a reflection of the bond they share. From their ceremony under a stormy sky to the lively reception, every moment was filled with love, laughter and music. It was an honor to document their story, and we couldn’t be happier for them!
Wedding Vendors
Venue: The Barn on Enchanted Acres, Dennison, Ohio (@enchantedacresvenues)
Dress: Radiant Bride
Tuxedos: Men's Wearhouse
Bridesmaid dresses: Birdy Grey
Florist: Nikki's Perfect Petals
Hair: Carly Baker
Makeup: Sarah Delaine Brides
Engagement session: Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland, Ohio
Photography & Film: Stories Forever Weddings (@storiesforeverweddings)
Planning Your Own Ohio Wedding?
We photograph and film weddings, engagements and proposals across Northeast Ohio. See our photo + video packages, browse the venues we've worked at, read what wedding photo and video costs in Ohio, or check your date. Another rainy-day ceremony that cleared just in time: Anastasia & Thomas at Westfall Event Center.
More From Stories Forever Weddings
Engagement sessions: photos and a short film at a place that's yours
Proposals: we help plan the surprise and capture it on photo and video
Real couples: browse our portfolio
Original wedding music: piano, strings and love songs for your day
Gifts & merch: personalized gifts for brides, grooms and newlyweds
Check your date: tell us about your plans
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