Central Texas Engagements March 2020

March 2020

FREE!

Engagements C entral T exas

www.TexasEngagements.com

The Hall at River Square Center

WACO’S PREMIER EVENT SPACE

Dressed up or dressed down, The Hall at River Square Center will transform your event into something truly extraordinary.

N Specializing in N REHEARSAL DINNERS & RECEPTIONS

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TO BOOK YOUR EVENT: 254.870.5017

WWW.THEHALLWACO.COM 217 MARY AVE., WACO, TX

RioBrazosCatering.com

Hand Lettering | Chalkboard Art Floral Design | Creative Projects

Photo by Loved Memories Photography

254-855-3294 hortonhousestudio@gmail.com

254-235-9136 / 254-424-2416

magnoliaweddingranch.com

Packages starting at $1,700

Indoor/Outdoor Ceremony & Reception Sites Overnight Accommodations Available Private Bridal & Groom Suites

Photo by Lauren Crose Photography Photos by Angela Dodd Photography

254-315-6984

264 HCR 3136 North, Bynum, TX

@MagnoliaRanchTX

Makensie Banda

254.717.8869 HeavenlyWeddingsWaco.com

www.TexasEngagements.com

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Photo by Shelly Taylor Photography

Weddings Rehearsal Dinners Reunions Parties

Photo by Hannah Haston Photography

Included in venue rental: Tables & 90� White Table Cloths Chiavari Chairs Unlimited Nugget Ice 2500 Washington Ave., Waco, TX For reservations call: 254-498-1015 / 254-498-3770 www.castleheightsbijoux.com

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CARLO H. BANDA 254-285-8707

Contents Catering • Banquet Hall • Big O Deck

On the Cover 12 Styled Shoot

Small Town Elegance Photos by Loved Memories Photography

1925 Speight • (254) 753-1421 1201 Hewitt Drive • (254) 420-2060

GeorgesRestaurant.com

Features 7 Featured Vendor Kakes by Kat

By Jessa McClure

19 Featured Vendor Blue HIlls Ranch

By Jessa McClure

26 Local Wedding Abri Bardales & Sean Martin Photos by Legacy Imaging

Airbrush Makeup Flawless, natural and timeless beauty for your wedding day Lauren Owen Call or text: 254-715-8434

www.shesallaboutthatface.com

30 Local Wedding Emily Jaska & Jake Potter Photos by Sarah Channon Photography

Submit your real wedding at www.TexasEngagements.com

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Publisher: Michele Berger

Sip with Us!

Editor-in-Chief: Jessa McClure Creative Director: Jerri Denson Office Manager: Melissa Talbert Social Media/Networking: Hillary Horton Advertising Information: Michele Berger (254)723-3696 Next Deadline April 6th For May & June Issues Contact us Phone: (254)848-8308 office@bergerpublishing.com

Photo by Simply Breezy Photography

Central Texas EngagementsTM 2020. All copy, photographs and information contained herein is protected by copyright and not to be reproduced.

Publisher reserves the right to decline any advertisements.

www.CorkandClink.com 6

By Jessa McClure

Six tiers of beauty sit regally on the cake table during the reception of a local bride and groom, who have put their trust in baker, Kathy Tucker—owner of Kakes by Kat—to create their unique vision. The confection is cream-colored with delicate pearl piping and a cascade of light blue and coral flowers.

“This has become one of my favorite cakes,” Tucker said. “I loved that I was able to be an instrumental part in creating what the couple dreamed up.”

Not only did Tucker create a memorable floral cake for the main event, but she also created a Tex-Mex-themed groom’s cake for the couple’s big day that included tacos, beer and salsa, all made out of cake and rice cereal treats.

Tucker first fell in love with baking when she was a child. She decided eight years ago to pursue her passion more seriously and Kakes by Kat was born. Now she creates one-of-a-kind wedding cakes, birthday cakes, cupcakes, cookies and more for events all over Central Texas.

She makes sure each client gets exactly what they envision, no matter how out-of-the-box their ideas might seem.

“We had a bride last year at the bridal show that came to our booth twice, ” Tucker said. “The second time she came by she said, ‘not only do I love your [cake] samples, but you’re the only person here that didn’t look at me with my idea and judge me or want me to change what I want for my cake.’”

Tucker said she loves hearing this positive feedback because she takes every design to heart. She wants brides to find a baker who will really care about making their day the best it can be.

“I would tell brides to weigh all of their options,” she said. “Make sure you have a connection with that person because that connection is going to be important down the line.”

The cake designer said she loves taking ideas and making them something the couple has never seen before.

“I don’t try to work in a little mold of what things should be or ought to be,” she said. “I love to give clients options.”

For more information about Kakes by Kat, visit www.kakesbykat.com, email Tucker at info@kakesbykat.com or call (254) 644-4413.

www.TexasEngagements.com

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Photo by Bear, Moose & Fox

254-314-2415

893 E. FM 93, Temple, TX

www.celebrationsshoppe.com

Call for an appointment: 254-315-8874

12485 Wortham Bend Rd., Waco

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Hours: Mon. & Fri. 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Tues. - Thurs. 10 - 5 p.m.

Saturday by appointment

AC/Heat Indoor Outdoor Cedar Chapel Day & Weekend Packages Covered Patio with Stage & Grill On-Site Guest Haus with Bridal Suite www.billysbarnwaco.com

Photo by Sarah Channon

Floral Boutique

Rated Top 25 New BBQ Joints by

www.bloomingalsfloralboutique.com

innovative concepts | creative design organized planning | Flawless execution

254.716.5809 info@brunerevents.com

www.brunerevents.com

www.TexasEngagements.com

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Now Booking for 2020

150 Acre Giraffe Sanctuary | 6,184 Square Ft. Barn Indoor & Outdoor Ceremony Sites Bridal & Groom’s Suites | Tables, Chairs & Linens Included

Call or Text

833-711-1777

2032 Blue Cut Rd. North, McGregor, TX

bluehillsranch.com ido@bluehillsranch.com

Located south of Hillcrest Hospital on I-35 service road

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Your Party, Your Way

Showroom + Warehouse 7201 Santos Drive, Suite F, Waco, TX

254.772.2757 www.PendleyParty.com

A Central Texas Styled Shoot at The Exchange Event Center In the quaint town of McGregor, TX, at The Exchange Event Center, we created a romantic, industrial vibe with shades of blue and dramatic champagne-colored draping. Soft candlelight, geometric signage and fresh greenery also added to the luxurious feeling of this elegant styled shoot. The upscale mood continued throughout the venue in details like the bride’s customized leather jacket, first-class transportation and a tiny mobile beverage truck.

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Photographer: LOVED MEMORIES PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEO Bartender Services: CORK + CLINK Caterer: RIO BRAZOS CUISINE CUSTOM CATERING Designer: SOIREE EVENTS – Jessie Hill Dress: GEORGIO’S BRIDAL & FORMALWEAR Floral: SOIREE EVENTS Hair: LA BELLA SALON & BEAUTY LOUNGE – Suzy Hendrix Hand Lettering/Calligraphy: HORTON HOUSE STUDIO Invitations: SCRIBBLES Make-Up: SHE’S ALL ABOUT THAT FACE Rentals: R.S.V.P. PARTY RENTALS & SOIREE EVENTS Transportation: LEGACY LIMOUSINES OF WACO Venue: THE EXCHANGE EVENT CENTER

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Share Your Local Wedding

WITH FRIENDS & FAMILY IN

Engagements C entral T exas

Photo by www.ShellyTaylorPhotography.net

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Photo by Tori Matthews

Wedding Weekend Lodging | Rehearsal Dinners | Outdoor Ceremony/Reception Explore our latest pictures and inspirational videos of the property. www.gatheringoaksretreat.com

254.307.1819

316 Canyon Oaks Rd., Crawford, TX

Let us design all of your wedding floral needs

254.752.3351

Photo by Micaela Grace

1500 Primrose Dr., Waco, TX 76706 www.wolfe-florist-waco.com

www.TexasEngagements.com

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The Perfect Venue for your Special Event Weddings + Parties + Showers + Corporate Events

Exclusive Shopping for Unique Items Gifts Gifts + + Jewelry Jewelry + + Home Home Decor Decor + + Clothing Clothing

317 W. 3rd Street Clifton, Texas www.marketatthemillclifton.com 254-715-8160 254-744-4517 Photo by @nbarrettphotography

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Historic Charm with Today’s Amenities

By Jessa McClure

When you drive onto the 150 acres that is Blue Hills Ranch in McGregor, TX in mid spring, you will realize where the wedding and event venue gets its name. Thousands of the Texas’ state flower cover the earth like a rich, blue carpet.

And now brides and grooms can have this beautiful scene as the backdrop to their big day.

Owner and California native, Matt Lieberman, has been visiting the Waco area since he was a child, and knew that he someday wanted to relocate to Texas. And when he found the property where his ranch now sits, he knew he was home.

But the single man didn’t initially have a wedding venue in mind.

“The plan was to open a California-style winery and event center for concerts,” he said. “Then someone asked me if I was going to do weddings, and I said, ‘it’s a big open space, so why not?’”

Blue Hills Ranch hosted two weddings even before construction was finished on the ranch’s crown jewel—a barn made of wood trucked in from Oregon and Washington that holds up to 644 people. And after the venue’s official opening in late March, Lieberman expects that more couples will want to book the location; especially when they see the other amenities that come with the rental.

“We have a dock being built [on one of the property’s lakes], which is a smaller, more intimate type of ceremony location, an outdoor chapel / pavilion, and two cabins for the bride’s and groom’s suites,” he said.

But perhaps the most enchanting thing about Blue Hills Ranch is its animal residents. Right now, the property is home to giraffes, miniature donkeys, miniature pigs, zebras, tortoises, and cows. And Lieberman plans to welcome more.

“We’re hoping to work with other organizations to house animals who need to be adopted or a need a forever home,” he said. “If you’re an animal lover, you can come here and get married amongst the animals.”

Lieberman wants to provide as much as possible so couples and their guests can enjoy their weddings.

“We include tables, chairs, linens, simple décor items, and the concert sound and light system,” he said. “Hopefully that saves the bride and groom some money.”

For more information about Blue Hills Ranch, visit www.bluehillsranch.com, call (833) 711-1777 or email ido@bluehillsranch.com.

www.TexasEngagements.com

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Legacy Limousines of Waco Quality Services at Affordable Prices

Weddings | Proms | Nights Out on the Town Out-of-Town Trips Wedding Party & Guest Shuttles

254-253-0198

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www.LLofWaco.com

www.ShellyTaylorPhotography.net

Specialty Cakes & Desserts

Catering

locally-owned and operated by Josh Hale and Scott Studer

Events Large & Small Bartending Services Large Customizable Menu Experienced Professionals Free Consultation

254-799-0027

4713 Bellmead Dr., Waco, TX www.LoneStarSteakhouseWaco.com

AA Sugar’d Up 254-644-9492 | 6320 N. 19th St., Waco, TX Photo by Lauren Crose Photography

www.TexasEngagements.com

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Knob Creek Chapel & Recepti Hall We Just Look Expensive! $2,250 for 3-Day Facility Rental Open by appointment. Call today!

Weddings | Receptions | Anniversaries | Banquets Reunions | Corporate Meetings | Quinceañeras Set on eight landscaped acres with a picturesque pond and tree-lined drive Gazebo for outside and chapel for inside functions | Reception hall with capacity for up to 175 | Liberal hours - day before, day of, day after Tables & chairs furnished. We set up, take down, & clean up | Bride/groom dressing rooms | Lighted parking for 80 cars

7196 E. FM 436, Temple,TX

254.983.0020

www.knobcreekchapel.com

RSVP

EVENT EQUIPMENT RENTAL 426 Towne Oaks Dr., Waco, Texas

Tents | Tables Chairs | Linens | Lighting China | Décor Photo by Tori Matthews Photography

254-772-5667 22

www.rsvpwacotx.com

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Photos by Wilder Love Photography

Wedding & Event Venue www.thephoenixballroom.com

254.754.0099

401 South 3rd Street, Waco

We Find the Perfect Gown to Make You Feel Beautiful

Rustic Acres

Schedule your appointment online today!

Photography by Legacy Imaging

Weekend rentals (Friday - Sunday at noon) 5500 sq. ft. facility holds over 300 people Tables & chairs included in rental fee Indoor & outdoor ceremony site options Photo by Alex Wolf Photo

@joannsbridal

254-826-5715 | www.joannsbridal.com I-35 access road, Exit 353, West, TX

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8513 Fox Road, Belton, TX www.RusticAcresEventCenter.com RusticAcresEventCenter@hotmail.com

BLANEK’S

CUSTOM CATERING

Weddings Rehearsal Dinners Special Events Corporate Events Large menu including specialty items & dietary options Experienced staff No event too large or small

Let us help you wii your next event!

LeeLockwood.org

www.TexasEngagements.com

254-754-3942 25

Abri Bardales & Sean Martin October 5, 2019 | Valley Mills, TX

Photographer: LEGACY IMAGING Caterer: BLANEK’S CUSTOM CATERING Dress: GEORGIO’S BRIDAL & FORMALWEAR Floral: HEB BLOOMS Wedding Planner: CMDESIGNS

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WEDDINGS | RECEPTIONS | BANQUETS | ANY SPECIAL EVENT

Amenities

Ballroom Balcony Bar Pool Lake Views Tables, Tablecloths & Chairs Included Ample Parking Gated for Privacy

254-622-2137

WWW.BOSQUERESORT.COM

29 119 PRIVATE ROAD 1820, CLIFTON, www . T e x aTX s E n g a g e m e n t BOSQUERESORTCASTLE@YAHOO.COM s.com

Emily Jaska & Jake Potter December 7 , 2019 | Waco, TX

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Photographer: SARAH CHANNON PHOTOGRAPHY Caterer: BLANEK’S CUSTOM CATERING Dress: GEORGIO’S BRIDAL & FORMALWEAR Floral: HORTON HOUSE STUDIO Hand Lettering/Calligraphy: HORTON HOUSE STUDIO Rentals: CELEBRATIONS EVENT RENTALS & PENDLEY PARTY PRODUCTIONS Transportation: LEGACY LIMOUSINES OF WACO Wedding Planner: BEFORE I DO – Kathy Thorman 31

254-501-6519

Where Character & Convenience Come Together 801 N. 4th Street, Killeen, TX | www.downtownkilleenevents.com

Every successful event starts with a great venue and surrounding community. With easy access from the highway or the airport, history art & culture, outstanding cuisine and recreation to satisfy every interest, you can’t beat the City of Killeen and the Killeen Civic & Conference Center.

Our staff can also help you coordinate reservations with the broad selection of hotels in our community. Call us today, and let’s get started!

254-501-3888

www.visitkilleen.com

Smile Down

www.killeenciviccenter.com

e Aisle!

Josh M. Knowles, D.D.S., M.S.D.

Specialist: Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics Diplomate American Board of Orthodontics Dr. Knowles is your board-certiied orthodontist practicing in the greater Temple area.

*2017 & 2018 Invisalign Top Provider

254-773-8028 32

smileattheworld.com

2027 S. 61st, St. Ste. 111, Temple, TX

254.709.5245 | www.lovedmemories.com

Photo by Loved Memories Photography

Central Texas’ Newest Event Venue banquet seating for 600 sound system & a/v included tables & chairs included

mcgregor, texas

(254) 236-8400 300 S. Jefferson Avenue McGregor, Texas www.McGregor-Texas.com

www.TexasEngagements.com

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StayInWoodway.org

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Photo by Shelly Taylor Photography Hair & Makeup by La Bella Salon & Beauty Lounge -Carly Lamadrid & Dahlia Rendon

Classical & Spanish guitar from the 1400s to present for your special occasion Weddings | Receptions Special Events

254-776-8188

exumguitarstudio@gmail.com

4201 Lake Shore Dr., Ste D, Waco

Photo by Ashley Munn Photography

254-366-2620

@weddingsbyshauna | www.weddingsbyshauna.com

www.TexasEngagements.com

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610 Fitness Training Studio Small Group Fitness & Personal Training Bridal Packages Available

Bride or Bride & Groom Packages Bride & Mom Packages Wedding Party Specials Personalized Fitness & Nutrition Challenges for Wedding Party

254-216-1020

Harpist Enchanting Salado & All of Bell County Wedding Ceremonies Receptions Rehearsal Dinners Parties & Special Events

254-699-9050

www.centexharpist.com

Floral Design

254-326-8300

thestellarplace@gmail.com

Mirror Me Photobooth & DJ Service DJ Karaoke Kim & DJ Famous John High-Quality Digital Prints | Fun Props & Red Carpet Weddings | QuinceaĂąeras | Corporate & Special Events

254.495.1997

KandSEntertainment.com

Catering | Weddings | Receptions Dinners | Private Parties Hours: Restaurant - Fri. & Sat. 4 - 10 p.m.

Catering - 7 days a week 6095 Heidenheimer, Temple,TX 254-493-2408 mungiabbq.com Thomas Mungia, Owner

WILDLY CULTIVATED

Creative Inspirations by Ann E Event Designs E Ann Marie Dennis Event & Wedding Coordinator

254.644.0878 anneventdesigns@gmail.com anneventdesigns.wixsite.com/anneventdesigns

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Floral Design Studio

Full-Service Floral Design Weddings Special Events

910-849-1060

wildlycultivatedflorals.com

EVENTS

FLORAL DESIGN RENTALS Jessie Hill 254-652-0922 Facebook.com/soireetexas

Photo by Loved Memories Photography

Simply a Taste of Sweetness Kathy Tucker, Owner

Ivory Bell Floral

254-644-4413

By Appointment Only

www.kakesbykat.com info@kakesbykat.com

Revyn Marburger {Owner}

254.541.8702 revyn@ivorybellfloral.com

1226 Washington Ave.

Waco, TX

Venues with Value Affordable Rentals Unique to Waco

254-753-4900 ext. 216 www.missionwaco.org

www.TexasEngagements.com

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Index By Categories Bartending Services

Orthodontics

Beauty

Photo Booths

Cork + Clink...................................................................6

Amazing Lash Studio.................................................. 25 La Bella Salon & Beauty Lounge................................ 35 She’s All About That Face.............................................5

Bridal & Formal Wear

Georgio’s Bridal & Formalwear.................................. 18 JoAnn’s Bridal.............................................................. 24 Pat’s Gowns................................................................. 10

Cakes & Desserts

All Sugar’d Up.............................................................. 21 Kakes by Kat............................................................... 37 Once Upon a Treat Custom Dessert Tables............... 37 The Olive Branch...........................................................4

Caterers

Blanek’s Custom Catering.......................................... 25 George’s Restaurant & Catering..................................5 Helberg Barbecue.........................................................9 Lone Star Tavern & Steakhouse Catering................. 21 Mungia’s BBQ.............................................................. 36 Rio Brazos Cuisine Custom Catering...........................3 The Olive Branch...........................................................4

Fitness

610 Fit ��...................................................................... 36

Floral Design

Bloomingals...................................................................9 HEB Blooms................................................................. 23 Horton House Studio....................................................3 Ivory Bell Floral............................................................ 37 Soiree Events.............................................................. 37 The Stellar Place Floral Design.................................. 36 Wildly Cultivated Floral Design Studio....................... 36 Wolfe Florist................................................................. 17

Gifts

K & S Entertainment................................................... 36 Wall of Sound Productions...........................................4

Photographers

Loved Memories Photography & Videography.......... 33 Petra Novak Boudoir................................................... 37 Rachel Thomas Photography.......................................9 Shelly Taylor Photography........................................... 21

Services

Heart O’ Texas Federal Credit Union.......................... 35

Venues

Billy’s Barn.....................................................................8 Blue Hills Ranch.......................................................... 10 Bosque Resort Castle................................................. 29 Carleen Bright Arboretum........................................... 34 Castle Heights Bijoux....................................................4 Deerfield Estates......................................................... 20 Gathering Oaks Retreat.............................................. 17 George’s Restaurant & Catering..................................5 Killeen Arts & Activities Center.................................. 32 Killen Civic & Conference Center............................... 32 Knob Creek Chapel & Reception Hall........................ 22 Lee Lockwood Library & Museum............................. 25 Magnolia Ranch............................................................3 Market at the Mill........................................................ 18 Moon River Ranch....................................................... 39 Residence Inn by Marriott – Temple.......................... 20 Rustic Acres Event Center.......................................... 24 Tenroc Ranch.............................................................. 40 The Amsler.....................................................................9 The Chapel at Meyer Center....................................... 37 The Clifton House..........................................................8 The Exchange Event Center....................................... 33 The Hall at River Square Center...................................2 The Olive Branch...........................................................4 The Phoenix Ballroom................................................. 24

Market at the Mill........................................................ 18 Scribbles...................................................................... 36

Videographers

Horton House Studio....................................................3

Wedding & Event Planners

Hand Lettering & Calligraphy

Hotel Accommodations / Lodging

Billy’s Barn.....................................................................8 Gathering Oaks Retreat.............................................. 17 Residence Inn by Marriott – Temple.......................... 20

Invitations / Stationery

Crop – Paper – Scissors............................................. 37 Scribbles ..................................................................... 36

Karaoke

K & S Entertainment................................................... 36

Lighting

K & S Entertainment................................................... 36 Wall of Sound Productions...........................................4

Limousines & Chauffeur Services

Legacy Limousines of Waco....................................... 20

Music/DJ’s

Frank Exum Solo Guitarist.......................................... 35 Gretchen Williams/Harpist......................................... 36 K & S Entertainment................................................... 36 The Salado Trio............................................................ 37 Wall of Sound Productions...........................................4

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Smile at the World...................................................... 32

Loved Memories Photography & Videography.......... 33

Bruner Events................................................................9 Celebrations Event Rentals & Design Shoppe............8 Creative Inspirations by Ann....................................... 36 Heavenly Weddings.......................................................3 Pendley Party Productions & Rentals........................ 11 Weddings by Shauna.................................................. 35

Wedding Supply & Equipment Rentals

Celebrations Event Rentals & Design Shoppe............8 Cork + Clink...................................................................6 Once Upon a Treat Custom Dessert Tables............... 37 Pendley Party Productions & Rentals........................ 11 RSVP Party Rentals..................................................... 22 Soiree Events.............................................................. 37 Wall of Sound Productions...........................................4

A Beautiful Texas Paradise

254-546-2233 | CR www.T e x417A, a s E nSatin, g a gTX e m| moonriverranch.com ents.com

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Tenroc Ranch

Photos by Nickole Lee Photography

Photo by Shelly Taylor Photography