Sara Evans and her now-husband, Jay Barker, met through a unique circumstance involving marriage counseling. Evans and her ex-husband, Craig Schelske, were going through counseling to try to save their marriage when they were introduced to Barker and his then-wife. Despite the counselor usually wanting to keep couples together, he saw that there were too many problems in Evans and Schelske’s marriage and set her up with Barker after her divorce was finalized. Initially hesitant to enter another marriage, Evans eventually messaged Barker and the two began a fast courtship.
After their quick romance, Evans moved to Alabama to live with Barker and they began raising their blended family together. Barker’s kids would spend every other week with them, while Evans’ children were there full-time as their father had essentially abandoned them after the divorce. Evans spoke highly of Barker’s role in helping to raise her children and expressed gratitude for his support. The couple’s relationship hit a rough patch in 2021 when Evans filed for divorce citing irreconcilable differences and inappropriate marital conduct on Barker’s part. Barker was later charged with felony aggravated assault but pleaded to a misdemeanor charge and received probation.
Despite the challenges in their relationship, Evans and Barker eventually reconciled and are now happily together. Evans emphasized the importance of following one’s gut instincts in relationships and not staying in a situation where you feel the need to exit. She encouraged women to prioritize their own well-being and make decisions that are best for them. The couple’s journey has had its ups and downs, but they have found their way back to each other and are now stronger for having gone through those challenges together.
Overall, Sara Evans and Jay Barker’s relationship has been anything but typical, starting with their introduction through marriage counseling and leading to a quick courtship and eventual reconciliation after a brief period of separation. The couple has faced challenges and legal issues but has come through stronger on the other side. Evans’ story serves as a reminder to trust one’s instincts and prioritize self-care in relationships, and to not be afraid to make difficult decisions in order to ensure one’s own well-being and happiness. Their love story may not follow the traditional script, but it is a testament to the power of love, forgiveness, and resilience in overcoming obstacles in relationships.
