Central Texas Engagements February 2020

February 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

Central Texas’ Newest Event Venue This rustic, yet elegant, 15,000 square foot event facility can accommodate up to 600 guests for banquets and up to 900 for cocktail events

Available for: Weddings | Receptions | Corporate Events | Fundraisers | Special Events 254-236-8400 300 S. Jefferson Avenue, McGregor, TX www.mcgregordowntownexchange.com

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

Historic Charm with Today’s Amenities

www.TexasEngagements.com

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Photo by Shelly Taylor Photography

Legacy Limousines of Waco Quality Services at Affordable Prices

Weddings Rehearsal Dinners Reunions Parties

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

254-253-0198

www.LLofWaco.com

Rustic Acres

Contents On the Cover 12 Styled Shoot Bridal Beauty Photos by Shelly Taylor Photography

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

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

Specialty Cakes & Desserts

Features 7 Featured Vendor Frank Exum Solo Guitarist

By Jessa McClure

26 Local Wedding Kendra Meyer & Jonathan Pratt Photos by Taylor Nicole Photography

AA Sugar’d Up 254-644-9492 | 6320 N. 19th St., Waco, TX

Submit your real wedding at www.TexasEngagements.com

Photo by Lauren Crose Photography

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www.ShellyTaylorPhotography.net

Publisher: Michele Berger Editor-in-Chief: Jessa McClure Creative Director: Jerri Denson Office Manager: Melissa Talbert Advertising Information: Michele Berger (254)723-3696 Next Deadline February 5th For March & April Issues Contact us Phone: (254)848-8308 office@bergerpublishing.com

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.

Rated Top 25 New BBQ Joints by

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By Jessa McClure

As a pair of flower girls walk toward the front of the church during a spring wedding, they are accompanied by the sounds of J.S. Bach’s Prelude in D Major. It’s a song that has been selected just for them, and is played, not by a string quartet, but by a classical guitar.

“When people hear classical music played on a guitar, they are immediately amazed,” said solo guitarist, Frank Exum. “They will come up to me and say, ‘I didn’t know the guitar played that kind of music.’”

Like most guitarists, Exum began his music career emulating famous musicians like Jimi Hendrix and Jeff Beck. He earned music degrees from three universities and played in several bands. But, after years of performing, he wanted a new challenge.

“I wanted to find the most difficult and most demanding genres of the guitar to play,” he said. “That lent towards classical music, which led me to begin playing weddings.”

Now the musician and guitar instructor has more than 30 years of experience performing for ceremonies and receptions. He believes his chosen instrument is tailor-made for weddings.

“Brides and grooms should consider the solo guitar because of the intimacy of the instrument,” he said. “A wedding is the most intimate of occasions and the classical guitar lends itself to that.”

Exum not only creates beautiful music the day of the wedding, he is also skilled in helping couples create the ideal soundtrack for their big day.

“I help to design the music and direct the musical function around each part of the wedding,” he said. “I invite couples to my studio and make suggestions that have worked well in the past. I also play pieces that might be a little Avant Garde. That way we can custom design the music around what they want.”

The guitarist said he is easy to work with and can be flexible when it comes to scheduling.

“I’ve done everything from performing ‘in a pinch’ with a day or two in advance to booking years in advance,” Exum said. “Whatever folks want.”

For more information about Frank Exum, visit frankexum.com, Facebook @frankexumsologuitarist or call 254-776-8188.

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RSVP

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

www.rsvpwacotx.com

254-772-5667 Photo by Tori Matthews Photography

www.TexasEngagements.com

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We Find the Perfect Gown to Make You Feel Beautiful

Catering Schedule your appointment online today! 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

@joannsbridal

Photo by Hello Beautiful Photography

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

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

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 | QuinceaĂąeras 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

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254.983.0020

www.knobcreekchapel.com

A Central Texas Styled Shoot

pearls, crystals and lace. These are a few of a bride’s favorite things, and they are all Beading, trending in 2020. The area’s leading bridal boutiques provided the best of their collections for this

Bridal Beauty styled shoot, to give bride’s a sneak peak and what they could be wearing down the aisle this year. From plunging V-necks to illusion necklines to trains covered in appliques, there’s something for every modern bride with these gorgeous gowns.

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Photographer: SHELLY TAYLOR PHOTOGRAPHY Dresses: GEORGIO’S BRIDAL SALON • JOANN’S BRIDAL • PAT’S GOWNS Floral: BLOOMINGALS • H-E-B BLOOMS • IVORY BELL FLORAL THE STELLAR PLACE • WILDLY CULTIVATED • WOLFE FLORIST Hair & Makeup: LA BELLA SALON & BEAUTY LOUNGE - Carly Lamadrid & Dahlia Rendon Venue: THE PHOENIX BALLROOM

Georgio's The Briar gown from Madison James is like something out of a boho bride’s dream. It is a floor-length wedding dress that is constructed of cascading lace and intricate details.

The fabric is lightweight and comfortable, and perfect for a spring or summer bride.

It is also available in plus sizes.

Bouquet designed by Wildly Cultivated Floral Design Studio

This soft and delicate Pamela A-line wedding gown from Maggie Sottero includes a sheer, beaded, lace bodice with an illusion V-back and sweetheart neckline. The stunning lace, bishop sleeves and the gown’s zipper are both adorned with covered buttons. It comes with a beaded belt and is available in plus sizes.

Bouquet designed by The Stellar Place Floral Design

Photos by Shelly Taylor Photography

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JoAnn's Bridal This slim gown is part of JoAnn Bridal’s private label collection, and features lace appliques with linear details. The bodice plunges into a V-neck and opens to an illusion back with lace details and covered buttons.

The attached, sheer train adds an elegant touch to this bridal look.

Bouquet designed by Ivory Bell Floral

This private label, designer gown is a fit and flare crepe wedding dress with scattered, ivory lace appliques that are prominent on the bodice and on the partially illusion train.

The sweetheart neckline and thin, delicate straps give it a modern, feminine look.

Bouquet designed by Bloomingals

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Pat's Gowns This ball gown, from the Regina Bianca Collection, has a sheer, jeweled bodice and full skirt made of tulle over satin. Both the front and back are in a deep V, held up with tank straps. The dress is also adorned with covered buttons and a chapel train to add to the princess aesthetic.

Bouquet designed by Wolfe Florist

This sheath gown from Symphony Bridal’s Regina Bianca Collection stuns with rose-patterned embroidery and sheer netting that complement the tulle and satin underneath.

The neckline plunges in a V-shape, and is adorned with crystals, pearls and beading. The embellishments continue down the scooped back and on the wide lace chapel train.

Bouquet designed by H-E-B BloomsÂŽ

Photos by Shelly Taylor Photography

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Let us design all of your wedding floral needs

Photo by Lisa Walters Photography

254.752.3351 www.wolfe-florist-waco.com

1500 Primrose Dr., Waco, TX 76706

Photos by Bear Moose & Fox Photography

254-231-7011 Temple, TX 16

www.thevenueatlillypond.net

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

17 119 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

Photos by Wilder Love Photography

254.754.0099

401 South 3rd Street, Waco

Photo by Taylor Nicole Photography Hair & Makeup by La Bella Salon & Beauty Lounge - Marye Adams & Ashlyn Engledow

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Wedding & Event Venue www.thephoenixballroom.com

magnoliaweddingranch.com

Packages starting at $1,700

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

1,000 sq. ft. rustic barn with gazebo 6 wooded acres for outdoor ceremonies & receptions 5 boutique houses to accommodate wedding parties

Photos by Fine Art Memories Photography

Photos by Angela Dodd Photography

254-315-6984

264 HCR 3136 North, Bynum, TX

254-444-0404

2290 FM 2268, Salado, TX yellowhousebandb.com

@MagnoliaRanchTX

Photo by Hannah Haston Photography

CARLO H. BANDA 254-285-8707

www.TexasEngagements.com

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Smile Down

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

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smileattheworld.com

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

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

www.killeenciviccenter.com

BLANEK’S

CUSTOM CATERING

Weddings Rehearsal Dinners Special Events Corporate Events Photo by Shelly Taylor Photography

254-314-2415 893 E. FM 93, Temple, TX www.celebrationsshoppe.com

Hours: Mon. & Fri. 10 a.m.  1 p.m.

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

Saturday by appointment

Large menu including specialty items & dietary options Experienced staff No event too large or small

www.TexasEngagements.com

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254.709.5245 | www.lovedmemories.com

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

254-776-8188

exumguitarstudio@gmail.com

Call for an appointment: 254-315-8874

12485 Wortham Bend Rd., Waco

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4201 Lake Shore Dr., Ste D, Waco

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

StayInWoodway.org

www.TexasEngagements.com

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Sip with Us!

Photo by Simply Breezy Photography

www.CorkandClink.com 24

254-541-9961

pam.liles@yahoo.com | pamliles.photography

RioBrazosCatering.com

254-235-9136 / 254-424-2416

Wedding planning at your fingertips!

Find local vendors.

Be in the know on upcoming events.

Learn about hottest trends.

Follow us: facebook.com/CentralTexasEngagements

Find it... Use it... Love it! www.TexasEngagements.com

instagram.com/centraltexasengagements twitter.com/TXEngagements pinterest.com/TXEngagements

www.TexasEngagements.com

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Kendra Meyer & Jonathan Pratt June 15, 2019 | Crawford, TX

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Photographer: TAYLOR NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY Cake: ALL SUGAR’D UP Caterer: BLANEK’S CATERING Hand Lettering/Calligraphy: K. DUNKS CREATIVE Wedding Planner: WEDDINGS BY SHAUNA 27

Located south of Hillcrest Hospital on I-35 service road

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 28

316 Canyon Oaks Rd., Crawford, TX

innovative concepts | creative design organized planning | Flawless execution

254.716.5809 info@brunerevents.com

www.brunerevents.com

www.TexasEngagements.com

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Let us help you wii your next event!

LeeLockwood.org

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254-754-3942

Share Your Local Wedding

WITH FRIENDS & FAMILY IN

Engagements C entral T exas

Photo by www.ShellyTaylorPhotography.net

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Let the party begin!

254.772.2757

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PendleyParty.com

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

Catering • Banquet Hall • Big O Deck

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

GeorgesRestaurant.com

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

www.shesallaboutthatface.com

www.TexasEngagements.com

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Photo by Sarah Channon

Floral Boutique

Photo by Lauren Crose Photography

Makensie Banda

254.717.8869 HeavenlyWeddingsWaco.com

www.bloomingalsfloralboutique.com

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 34

2032 Blue Cut Rd. North, McGregor, TX

bluehillsranch.com ido@bluehillsranch.com

Hand Lettering | Chalkboard Art Floral Design | Creative Projects 254-855-3294 hortonhousestudio@gmail.com

www.TexasEngagements.com

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WILDLY CULTIVATED Floral Design Studio

Full-Service Floral Design Weddings Special Events 910-849-1060

wildlycultivatedflorals.com Photo by Ashley Munn Photography

254-366-2620

@weddingsbyshauna | www.weddingsbyshauna.com

Ivory Bell Floral Revyn Marburger {Owner}

254.541.8702 revyn@ivorybelloral.com

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

Simply a Taste of Sweetness Kathy Tucker, Owner

254-644-4413

By Appointment Only

www.kakesbykat.com info@kakesbykat.com 36

254-216-1020

Floral Design

254-326-8300

1226 Washington Ave.

Waco, TX

Venues with Value Affordable Rentals Unique to Waco

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

thestellarplace@gmail.com

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

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

Harpist Enchanting Salado & All of Bell County

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

Wedding Ceremonies Receptions Rehearsal Dinners Parties & Special Events

254-699-9050

www.centexharpist.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

www.TexasEngagements.com

KandSEntertainment.com 37

Index By Categories Bartending Services

Orthodontics

Beauty

Photo Booths

Cork + Clink................................................................. 24 Amazing Lash Studio.................................................. 24 La Bella Salon & Beauty Lounge................................ 18 She’s All About That Face........................................... 33

Bridal & Formal Wear

Georgio’s Bridal & Formalwear....................................8 JoAnn’s Bridal.............................................................. 10 Pat’s Gowns................................................................. 28

Cakes & Desserts

All Sugar’d Up................................................................5 Kakes by Kat............................................................... 36 Once Upon a Treat Custom Dessert Tables............... 36 The Olive Branch......................................................... 35

Caterers

Blanek’s Custom Catering.......................................... 21 George’s Restaurant & Catering................................ 33 Helberg Barbecue.........................................................6 Lone Star Tavern & Steakhouse Catering................. 10 Mungia’s BBQ.............................................................. 37 Rio Brazos Cuisine Custom Catering......................... 25 The Olive Branch......................................................... 35

Fitness

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

Floral Design

Bloomingals................................................................. 34 HEB Blooms................................................................. 11 Horton House Studio.................................................. 35 Ivory Bell Floral............................................................ 36 The Stellar Place Floral Design.................................. 37 Wildly Cultivated Floral Design Studio....................... 36 Wolfe Florist................................................................. 16

Gifts

Market at the Mill........................................................ 20 Scribbles...................................................................... 37

Hand Lettering & Calligraphy

Horton House Studio.................................................. 35

Hotel Accommodations / Lodging

Billy’s Barn................................................................... 22 Gathering Oaks Retreat.............................................. 28 Residence Inn by Marriott – Temple.......................... 19 Yellow House Bed & Breakfast................................... 19

Invitations / Stationery

Crop – Paper – Scissors............................................. 35 Scribbles ..................................................................... 37

Karaoke

K & S Entertainment................................................... 37

Lighting

K & S Entertainment................................................... 37 Wall of Sound Productions......................................... 19

Limousines & Chauffeur Services

Legacy Limousines of Waco.........................................4

Music/DJ’s

Frank Exum Solo Guitarist.......................................... 22 Gretchen Williams/Harpist......................................... 37 K & S Entertainment................................................... 37 The Salado Trio............................................................ 37 Wall of Sound Productions......................................... 19

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Smile at the World...................................................... 20 K & S Entertainment................................................... 37 Wall of Sound Productions......................................... 19

Photographers

Loved Memories Photography & Videography.......... 22 Pam Liles Photography............................................... 24 Petra Novak Boudoir................................................... 36 Rachel Thomas Photography..................................... 35 Shelly Taylor Photography.............................................6

Services

Heart O’ Texas Federal Credit Union.......................... 36

Venues

Billy’s Barn................................................................... 22 Blue Hills Ranch.......................................................... 34 Bosque Resort Castle................................................. 17 Carleen Bright Arboretum........................................... 23 Castle Heights Bijoux....................................................4 Cultivate 7Twelve........................................................ 33 Deerfield Estates...........................................................8 Gathering Oaks Retreat.............................................. 28 George’s Restaurant & Catering................................ 33 Killeen Arts & Activities Center.................................. 21 Killen Civic & Conference Center............................... 21 Knob Creek Chapel & Reception Hall........................ 10 Lee Lockwood Library & Museum............................. 30 Magnolia Ranch.......................................................... 19 Market at the Mill..........................................................3 Moon River Ranch....................................................... 39 Residence Inn by Marriott – Temple.......................... 19 Rustic Acres Event Center............................................5 Tenroc Ranch.............................................................. 40 The Amsler.....................................................................6 The Chapel at Meyer Center....................................... 37 The Clifton House........................................................ 33 The Exchange Event Center.........................................3 The Hall at River Square Center...................................2 The Olive Branch......................................................... 35 The Phoenix Ballroom................................................. 18 The Venue at Lilly Pond.............................................. 16 Vintage Oaks Ranch.....................................................4 Yellow House Bed & Breakfast................................... 19

Videographers

Loved Memories Photography & Videography.......... 22

Wedding & Event Planners

Bruner Events.............................................................. 29 Celebrations Event Rentals & Design Shoppe.......... 21 Creative Inspirations by Ann....................................... 37 Heavenly Weddings..................................................... 34 Pendley Party Productions & Rentals........................ 32 Weddings by Shauna.................................................. 36

Wedding Supply & Equipment Rentals

Celebrations Event Rentals & Design Shoppe.......... 21 Cork + Clink................................................................. 24 Once Upon a Treat Custom Dessert Tables............... 36 Pendley Party Productions & Rentals........................ 32 RSVP Party Rentals.......................................................9 Wall of Sound Productions......................................... 19

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

Photo by Shelly Taylor Photography