Emerald Waterfront Bar and Grill

Welcome Party

Wedding Day

St Sylvester Catholic Church

Ceremony

SpringHill Suites Navarre Beach

Reception

Farewell Toast

Our Wedding

When Michael began his freshman year at Clemson University in 2020, his mom, Erica, joined an online FAQ session for parents of incoming students. On the other side of the call was Payton, then a sophomore, ready to answer questions from parents. After Payton introduced herself and mentioned her lifeguarding experience in Dewey Beach, DE, Erica directed a question to her. The Burns family lived in the nearby Philadelphia area at the time. Immediately afterward, Erica reported back to Michael about “that cute girl from Delaware” she had spoken with, quickly suggesting that he should talk to her.Michael and Payton eventually met on campus through clubs and activities, but the two remained just friendly. After two years of Michael coming home on school breaks to Erica asking for an update on Payton, he finally worked up the courage to ask her out in 2022. They have been going strong ever since. Through stretches of long- and mid-distance, Michael and Payton have always sacrificed for each other to make it work. In May 2025, Michael proposed to Payton in Orange Beach, Alabama.

Moms are always right!

Our Story

Photos

The oldest of 3 sisters, Kendall has done an exceptional job handling the responsibility. She has been a positive influence on Payton throughout her life - in academics, lacrosse, her travels, cooking, and her relationships. Don't bother challenging her football knowledge, and don't expect to outlast her at a bar. She will win. Go Hokies!

Kendall Welch

Jacob and Michael met the first week of their freshman year. Though they initially butted heads, Jacob eventually became college roommates with Michael and an honorary member of the Burns family. His remarkable intelligence is balanced with his goofy and carefree personality. He is an HH-60 helicopter pilot in the U.S.  Air Force and is stationed at Kirtland AFB.

Jacob Downing

Tarrah is the youngest sibling and will graduate from Ohio State University in May 2026. She spent her early years playing Barbies with Payton, which is where her family first saw her boundless imagination. Tarrah is creative, and her energy is like a firework. Payton is grateful for how close they've become and often wishes she could keep up with her on a fun night out. 

Tarrah Welch

Patrick met Payton years ago, shortly after he began dating Tarrah. Although three years younger, he set the standard for any future boyfriend Payton might have. His generosity, easygoing nature, and loyalty made him feel like family from the start. Patrick graduated from University of Kentucky in May, 2026, and is now working as Assistant Neighborhood Construction Manager with Stanley Martin.

Patrick Wiercinski

Ava is hardworking, deeply committed to her faith, and pours immense love into her family and friends. A middle child amongst the Burns boys, Ava learned how to hold her own. She enjoys traveling, sewing and embroidery, and fashion. She is a member of the Delta Gamma sorority at Texas A&M University and is entering senior year.

Ava Burns

Cooper is the youngest Burns sibling. Despite the age difference of 9 years, he is certainly one of "the boys." The two bond over their love of sports and endless Ping-Pong matches. Cooper is a dedicated athlete, has an outgoing attitude, and charms the ladies. He is currently a high school freshman.

Cooper Burns

You can probably find Sydney and Payton on the beach playing cornhole, at Jam in Dewey, going to Capital's hockey games, or sipping margaritas at Agave. After their parents spent countless hours together at swim meets, Payton and Sydney adopted a friendship that felt more like sisterhood. Syd is strong-willed and loves her friends fiercely.

Sydney Kirsch

Brady is Payton's eldest sibling. He is intelligent, driven, and boldly nontraditional. For work, he is a creative technologist and collaborative art design specialist for a firm in Baltimore, MD. Some of his projects can be found in museums across Philadelphia and Washington. Payton always loved having a brother to look up to, both literally and figuratively (he's 6'5").

Brady Welch

Kyra has been Payton's best friend since 7th grade. They know each other to the core, despite navigating long distance for the majority of their friendship. Kyra is brilliant, funny, and will bring up The Real Housewives series any chance she gets. Payton is blessed she stood by her through the awkward teenage years, the growing pains of young adulthood, and now the season of marriage.

Kyra Langbein

Evan was introduced to Michael through Jacob. In addition to their Theta Chi brotherhood, Evan and Michael share a deep love for all Philadelphia sports. They became roommates during their senior year and now share Air Assault qualifications. Evan is a Medical Service Officer in the U.S. Army and is currently stationed at Fort Campbell, Kentucky.

Evan Miles

After Clemson introduced Sophie to Payton, these two have spent an infinite amount of time giggling in the bathroom or rapid-fire texting about "groundbreaking" news. Sophie has inspired Payton to be kind and to persevere, even in the face of life's challenges. She is a strong leader, loves unconditionally, and could even make a statue laugh. She is currently stationed in Texas as an Intelligence Officer in the U.S. Air Force.

Sophie Hofmann

Near the end of their freshman year, Evan introduced Bryce to Michael. With proud Cuban roots, Bryce keeps the group honest and brings a "valuable perspective." Hailing from Northeast Florida, Bryce loves the outdoors and humbles the guys with his sharp wit.  Bryce is an accountant and an Army Combat Medic in the Florida National Guard.

Bryce Ortega

Teagan was Payton's very first friend when she transferred high schools. She has the kindest heart, warmest smile, and is always up for a pizza date on the beach. The Welches have considered her an adopted family member. After Teagan graduated from University of Delaware, she moved to Philadelphia to work for Haverford Trust as a Custody Operations Specialist.

Teagan Gale

Wedding Party

SpringHill Suites by Marriott Navarre Beach

Pensacola International Airport

Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport

Travel

Snorkel and see Navarre's man-made reef system

Navarre Beach Marine Park

Located on Payton's base. Home of the Blue Angels. Please check website for pass information.

National Naval Aviation Museum

Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center

Only accessible by boat. Huge summer long party at famous local sandbar! Many rental companies available.

Michael & Payton