Loading
Loading
Loading
Loading
Loading
Loading

Payne and Ivy

    Home
    Schedule

We said yes! Join us while we say "I Do"

Payne Sterling Ross

&

Ivy Rain Stafford

April 28, 2024

Pittsburgh, PA

How We Met

2019

We crossed paths in the town of Weedville, Pennsylvania, back in 2019, during a gathering at our mutual friend's family camp. Over the course of that memorable weekend, we spent much of the time talking to one another and getting to know each other. Our connection was undeniable, and as the days turned into months, we found ourselves drawn closer, ultimately embarking on a romantic journey together. Navigating a long-distance relationship, Ivy pursued her education at the University of Pittsburgh in Pennsylvania, while Payne pursued his studies at Florida Atlantic University in Florida. We took turns visiting each other, bridging the geographical gap that separated us.

The Sunshine State

2020 - 2021

Our love story took a significant turn in 2020 when Ivy graduated from Pitt, and we made the decision to share our lives under one roof in Boynton Beach, Florida. Our home became a canvas for crafting cherished memories, accompanied by the joyful presence of Payne's sister, Tiara, and our beloved pets – Payne's family dog, Rocky, and Ivy's cat, Moomoo. Our time in Florida was a whirlwind of adventure. We explored the towering heights of Mount Whitney, the tallest peak in the contiguous U.S., and reveled in leisurely rides on our cruiser bikes through the neighborhood. Evenings were spent cruising along the oceanfront, basking in the warm glow of sunset.

The Crossroads of the West

2021-2023

As time marched on, we received a call for change. Embarking on a thrilling three-month journey in Payne's trusty Jeep, we set off on a cross-country odyssey, traversing 18 states before finally finding our new home in Salt Lake City, Utah, at the close of 2021. Here, we also expanded our furry family, welcoming our cat, Nori and our dog, Zero, into our hearts and home.

The Proposal

October 18, 2022

Our adventure didn't stop there. In October 2022, we embarked on an unforgettable vacation to Honolulu, Hawaii, where Payne proposed amidst the enchanting beauty of the Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden. We savored our remaining days by lounging on the beach, immersing ourselves in the rich Polynesian cuisine and culture of Hawaii, all while eagerly anticipating a lifetime together.

Hopes for the Future

2024 +

The horizon of our future is painted with dreams and aspirations. Following Payne's graduation from University of Utah, we plan reside in North Carolina, drawing nearer to our loved ones. There, we envision adding even more cherished memories to our love story, along with Ivy's pursuit of a master's degree, and the continuation of Payne's research in orbital dynamics in graduate school.

For all the days along the way
About ZolaGuest FAQsOrder statussupport@zola.com1 (408) 657-ZOLA
Start your wedding website© 2025 Zola, Inc. All rights reserved. Accessibility / Privacy / Terms