In light of the COVID-19 pandemic around us, Matthew and I are striving to create a safe event where we can all come together to celebrate without worry. Here are the ways we are increasing safety measures at our wedding to help put your mind at ease: - all guests are highly encouraged to wear a face mask when a 6 ft distance cannot be kept in between parties - hand sanitizer will be available to all guests at all times - instead of being set out at the tables, all plates and silverware will be distributed at the buffet line by one of our catering staff - drinks will be served individually by our catering personnel to limit touch points - all vendors will be wearing masks and gloves, and are screened for COVID-19 symptoms before coming onto the venue premises - disposable and individually packed products will be used whenever possible - tables will be spaced at least 6 ft apart to ensure proper social distancing - ceremony will be held outside and seating rows will be spaced out to allow for extra room in between households More information about COVID-19 in Williamson County can be found here: http://www.wcchd.org/COVID-19/dashboard.php

It's 2016. College Station, TX. The beginning of the fall semester. Shelby has just started school at Texas A&M and was itching to get involved in an organization. Matthew was starting his senior year (round one) and had recently become the Social Coordinator for the University's Sailing Team. Each year Texas A&M hosts an event called "Rec-a-Palooza" that gives students a chance to see what sports organizations exist and how to get involved. Shelby goes to Rec-a-Palooza with a newly made friend and heads to the racquetball courts where booths are set up for various sport clubs. She walks into the first court, and on her left she sees rock climbing and women's rugby. Eager to turn away from soliciting eyes, she turns to her right to see a sweet, standard poodle perched next to a booth set up on the other side of the room. And because she can't pass up an opportunity to pet a dog, she b-lines for the poodle. As she nearly completes her path to the pooch, a handsome, young Aggie boy sporting cowboy boots and jeans steps in her way. "Would you like to join the sailing team!?" And that's how it all began. One month later Shelby skips work to attend Matthew's Ring Day (whoops) and they start dating shortly thereafter. January 2017. The couple welcomed another member to the party - a sweet sheep dog shih tzu mix rescued from Bryan Animal Shelter - Rusty. (But wait, you say, isn't that just THREE MONTHS after they started dating?! Yes, yes it is. I guess they just had a feeling all of this would end up working out.) May 2018. The two graduate from Texas A&M and begin their journey as young professionals. January 2019. Both Shelby and Matthew are living in Austin, after 7 months of dating long distance. July 2019. He asks. She says yes. And now we are here, ready to celebrate what the Lord has done in our lives and commit to each other with our friends and family near. And we can't wait!