WE'RE GETTING MARRIED!

Mark and Jessie first met while they were both in committed relationships with other people in the fall of 2014 (and Mark was very terrified of other girls). It wasn't until 2015 that they hung out for the first time with mutual friends at Mark's house. A night full of friends and making memories made for the first kiss between Mark and Jessie. After that night they both chose to only pursue a friendship, which has lasted for the past 3 years.

Jessie and Mark went on to date other people throughout their years of friendship, but were always able to pick their friendship back up where it had left off. Jessie left for Kenya in the fall of 2016 and when she returned in January they began hanging out again; first at a Pacers game and then getting drinks to catch up whenever Jessie was in Indianapolis. In June the door was reopened to pursue a romantic relationship and with some slight hesitation on Jessie's end, they found themselves dating; already knowing the good and the bad, having walked with each other over different phases of their lives, and engaging in intentional conversation about what the future could hold for them.

With talks of marriage and not wanting to wait a year to do it, they decided the next spring was doable (lol sorry mom). So, Jessie set up a wedding dress appointment with her sisters and mother in December. The micromanaging side of Jessie was very anxious to get engaged before trying on a dress, but ultimately realized it was Mark's "thing" and let it go. Little did she know that in true Mark fashion, he was waiting till the last minute in a dressing room to come out and surprise her with the most beautiful ring and a promise to always be on the same team. They are in awe of Jesus' timing and the way their lives have led them back to each other - more mature and fully redeemed through Christ; and are so excited to take this next big step and be joined together as one by our Heavenly Father.