Some couples build a life together over time. For Brad Michael and Catherine Guidry, that process started in a much more literal way. While pursuing their Master of Architecture at UL Lafayette, the two were paired on a graduate project that would end up shaping far more than their careers. Together, they designed and built a sustainable solar home that was later transported to the National Mall in Washington, DC.

What followed was a season neither of them will ever forget. They spent more than a month in Washington D.C., working long days, solving problems, and competing alongside 19 universities from around the world. In the middle of that experience, something deeper began to take shape. What started as a shared project naturally turned into a partnership, one built on collaboration, creativity, and a shared way of seeing the world.

Today, that same spirit still shapes their lives. Brad is a licensed architect and professor at UL Lafayette, and Catherine is a wedding and event photographer, capturing meaningful moments for others. Both careers reflect their appreciation for thoughtful design and connection, but these days, their greatest focus is much closer to home.

“Our life is pretty simple now,” Catherine shares. “It’s really centered around our family.”

Opal, 5, and Olive, 2.5, have become the heartbeat of their home, shaping the rhythm of their days in a way that feels both full and intentional. Rather than chasing busy schedules, they have leaned into a slower pace, one that allows them to fully experience this season of life together.

Their mornings begin gathered around the breakfast table, where Brad cooks while they both enjoy coffee and conversation with the girls. It is a simple routine, but one they value deeply. “We really love slow mornings together,” Brad says. “It’s one of the most meaningful parts of our day.”

Throughout the week, their traditions continue with that same sense of intentionality. Sundays are for s’mores, Tuesdays mean fried chicken night, and Fridays are reserved for ice cream. These rhythms may be simple, but they create consistency, closeness, and something the whole family looks forward to. As Catherine shares, “My dad has always said that life’s greatest gift is time, and that’s really what we value most.”

Creating and building together has been a constant throughout their relationship. Before settling in Lafayette, Brad and Catherine spent six years renovating a 140-year-old shotgun double camelback in Uptown New Orleans. When they moved here, they spent over two years designing and building their current home in River Ranch. “We always have a project,” Brad says, “and we do most of them together.”

That creative spirit hasn’t stopped with them. It’s already being passed down to their daughters. Opal loves making jewelry and dressing up, while Olive is constantly moving to music, in addition to being full of personality and energy. And if you happen to see two little girls riding through the neighborhood in a motorized princess carriage, you’ve likely found them.

After years of living in the walkable city of New Orleans, the couple knew they wanted that same sense of connection in their everyday life. “We’re happiest when we can explore on foot,” Catherine says, a value that ultimately led them to River Ranch. Now, their days are often spent walking to Reve for coffee or ice cream, heading to the park, or simply enjoying time outdoors together.

One of the most meaningful parts of their lives here, though, is the proximity to family. Catherine’s parents live just five minutes away, right on the park, making daily visits a natural part of their routine. “We walk to their house every day,” she says. “That’s been such a gift.” That closeness has created a rhythm of connection that feels both rare and deeply special.

Their home reflects that same sense of connection. Hosting friends and family is something they genuinely enjoy, and their space has become a place where people gather easily. That spirit extends beyond their home as well. Brad is deeply involved through his work at UL Lafayette and his role as Vice President of the AIA South Chapter, helping shape the architectural community across the region. Catherine gives back through photography, using her talents to support others in meaningful ways, from fundraising efforts to offering her work during important life moments.

Brad and Catherine agree, River Ranch feels like the natural place for this season of life. They love the beauty of the neighborhood, the walkability, and especially the trees that line the streets. They appreciate the events that bring people together and the neighbors who have made them feel so welcome. “It’s been really special to watch my parents’ embrace this lifestyle too,” Catherine shares.

More than anything, it is a place where their daughters can grow up surrounded by creativity, connection, and community. And for a family that began by building something side by side, it feels fitting that what they have created now is a life grounded in those same values.

“We can’t wait to watch our girls grow up here.”