Mark and I met on the dating app Bumble, which touts itself on being the only app "where women make the first move," so, technically, I have the honors of taking credit for this beautiful union. :)

Our first date was at a coffee shop. It was a beautiful January day and we enjoyed a walk around Fort Monroe while talking about everything from our kids, our jobs, sharing funny stories about nights in Adams Morgan in DC (if you know you know), and college (we still laugh that he asked who my college is named after. I went to James Madison University - haha).

I was quickly enamored by Mark's wit, his love for his family, his intelligence, his kindness and generosity, his moral compass, his humility, his gorgeous smile, his love for food/wine/bourbon, his accomplishments, his sense of adventure, his openness to go to church with me, and so much more. (He also made my tummy flip flop in the best way possible)!

As we spent time getting to know each other and as we grew closer, we hit a couple of bumps in the road. It was in the hard times that I began to see more profound qualities in Mark that made me realize I wanted to spend the rest of my life loving him and being loved by him...like his ability to be vulnerable, his unmatched level of patience and gentleness with me, and a deep desire to make this relationship work.

Mark has held a mirror up to me and helped me see great qualities in myself that I didn't know or believe were there. He has also helped me see things that I didn't WANT to see that need my attention so I can be better for him, my kids and family, myself, and the world.

I'm so grateful that he chose me and that he chooses me every single day. I feel so loved, valued, and seen. What more could a girl ask for?!

M&M

Wedding and Reception

Reception