Holidays look a little different for the Browns, with both Tyler and Lauren having birthdays in December. “It’s hard to be everywhere and it’s very difficult to gather people to celebrate a birthday in December,” said Lauren. “When we got married, my mom decided to start a tradition for the two of us. She gifts us an evening away at Gaylord Opryland Hotel. We go mid December and it’s always so fun! We feel so special each time we stay there and it’s my favorite thing to look forward to!”

As for family holiday gatherings, Lauren fondly remembers celebrating Christmas each year on Christmas Eve with her Dad’s side of the family at his grandparent’s house growing up and now at her grandparent’s house. The large family gathering includes a game of Dirty Santa (clean version) between the adults - with a women’s round and men’s round - always providing much entertainment! Food typically includes finger food and appetizers, sausage balls being Tyler’s favorite, and Riley’s Bakery always playing some part in the tradition from cake to Lauren’s favorite - tea cookies.

Last year was their first Christmas with their daughter, Emmy. The three wore matching pajamas (which was the start to a new tradition) and stayed at home on Christmas Day to just enjoy each other. “We always make sure to make Jesus the reason for the season. It can be easy to lose sight of that,” said Lauren.

Tyler’s birthday is on Christmas Day so Lauren tries to make it extra special for him. Their first year married, Lauren woke up early and filled the living room with balloons and lit candles on a birthday cake to wake him up. “I’ll always remember his reaction being so genuine and sweet. Christmas gives us lots of reasons to celebrate,” said Lauren.