James and Marissa have been going to school together since their days in 7th grade at Desert Shadows Middle School, but somehow never crossed paths until 5 years later when they were Seniors at Horizon High School thanks to Marissa's Maid of Honor Alison. It didn't take long before Marissa and James caught each other's eye. Marissa being so head strong to not be in a relationship and focus on volleyball was determined to hold her feelings back, not realizing how much she truly needed James in her life. They ended up running into each other at a back to school bash held at Scottsdale Bible Church. It was then that they knew something was truly special between the two of them. The whole night they forgo' d spending time with the friends they came with and hung out with each other playing carnival games all night, not wanting the night to end. Shortly after that they both started attending each other's football and volleyball games, eventually leading to their first date after a volleyball tournament at Genghis Grill. It wasn't long before James was ready to ask Marissa to be his girlfriend on October 22nd, 2013. Graduation came and went and before they knew it James was starting school at UofA, and Marissa at PVCC to complete her associates in a year. Marissa visited every weekend, falling in love with the school herself. Once completing her Associates Marissa transferred to UofA where her and James had the best 2 years of their life. Both were in Greek life, enjoying all the opportunities it provided. They both excelled in school, attending every basketball game, often sitting in the very front row of the student section, and cheering on their Wildcats in all sports.

Two years passed and Marissa was ready to graduate in 2017. She moved back home (bought a super cute puppy named Cooper), and started working in property management with Greystar. James finished his senior year and graduated from the University of Arizona in 2018 and returned to Phoenix. James got settled in his new job and they started saving as much as they could for their future. In July of 2020 they were able to rent a house and move in together with one of their groomsmen, Evan. Shortly into their move James proposed to Marissa on their 7 year anniversary on October 22nd, 2020. Once their lease ended, they were able to purchase their first home together and closed in August of 2021. Ever since they have been planning like crazy to make the best day and celebration of their life come true. They are so excited to share their love and their special day with you!