09/11/2026
For the last 13 years, Shawn has stood beside me at hundreds of weddings, helping me preserve some of the most important memories in people’s lives. Somewhere along the way, he stopped being the guy who shoots weddings with me and simply became family.
And when someone becomes family, their family becomes part of your life, too.
Last week, Shawn lost his little sister, Katie, after her battle with cancer. She was only 47.
I had the privilege of spending quite a bit of time with Katie over the years, and anyone who knew her knows there was absolutely no mistaking her personality. She was a no-bullsh*t, tell-it-like-it-is kind of woman—honest, feisty, funny and a total spitfire.
So naturally, we got along great ❤️ We shared a lot of laughs, and I’m grateful that loving Shawn gave me the opportunity to know and love Katie, too.
Today we said goodbye to her, and my heart is broken for Shawn and his family. For their mom, who should never have to bury her child. And for Katie’s husband, Eddie, who loved her deeply through 15 years of marriage and then, unimaginably, lost his father just days after losing his wife. My heart is with him as he carries an amount of grief that is difficult to even comprehend.
Shawn, when my dad died—the worst day of my life and the hardest thing I have ever had to go through—you were there for me. I will never forget that.
I can't take this pain away from you. God, I wish I could. But I can stand beside you now, the way you stood beside me.
You have spent 13 years showing up for me, my business and our couples more times than I could ever count. Today, when your own family is facing one of its hardest moments, I hope you know you don't stand there alone.
I love you like a brother. I would do absolutely anything for you. Stacy Smith Studios has been your home for 13 years, and every single one of us is wrapping our arms around you and your family today.
Our deepest condolences to Shawn, Mike, Karen, Eddie, and everyone who loved Katie.
Rest peacefully, Katie. Thank you for the laughs, the honesty, the fire, and for always being unapologetically yourself.
You will be deeply missed. ❤️
