D Weddings celebrates unions of couples of all races, faiths, cultures, and orientations. To celebrate Pride Month, we’re catching up with a few couples from our favorite LGBTQ+ weddings from over the years. Shaun Haynes and Derek Smith wed on October 6, 2018, at The Westin Galleria and have been loving married life ever since. See what Shaun would tell his younger self and the advice he and his husband have for other couples.
How long have you been married?
4.5 years
How has life changed since getting married?
So much has changed! Just over a year into our marriage, we all went into a global pandemic. We were lucky enough to make it through together, unlike so many. At the beginning of 2021, we began the adoption process. This past January, we brought home our daughter, Maryn, and we will finalize her adoption in the coming weeks.
How is it the same?
Our bond and love for each other. Not only has it stayed the same, but it’s strengthened.
What has being married meant to you?
It means the world. Knowing that you have found your partner to wake up to, come home to at the end of the day, and live life with has been a dream.
What would you tell your younger self about the life he’d one day have?
Just wait! The man of your dreams is coming. It’s going to seem like forever, but he’s coming.
What marriage advice do you have for other couples? Anything specific you’d want to say to other same-sex couples starting out on their marriage journey?
Don’t be scared to do this in Texas. There are so many vendors that want to work with you and will make the day everything you hoped it would be. Invest in a coordinator, at least for the month out or day off—it will help with all the stress. Ten years ago, this wasn’t legal in Texas, so enjoy the day. It will go so fast, so just make sure you soak in every moment.
