One of life's many wonders is determining the moment Mason and MacKenzie first crossed paths. Maybe it was while cheering on their brothers at youth hockey games, or in passing at DeForest Middle School. Though the exact moment remains a mystery, they know that fate was already at work, drawing them together in ways they never expected—and for that, they are endlessly grateful. Mason and MacKenzie both grew up in the DeForest/Windsor area, likely meeting sometime between 2011 and 2013. Though they attended the same schools, it wasn’t until freshman year that they shared a class—fittingly, Introduction to Business. From that point on, their lives became intertwined in ways they couldn’t have imagined. Mason’s knowledge for physics and chemistry helped MacKenzie through some tough classes, and MacKenzie managed the hockey team Mason played for. It wasn’t until Junior Prom that their friendship evolved into something more. On April 7, 2016, they officially started dating, not realizing how significant that day would be for the rest of their lives. After high school, they ventured into different college experiences—Mason at UW Milwaukee and MacKenzie at Minnesota Duluth. Despite the distance, they made it work, visiting each other on weekends. Eventually, MacKenzie transferred to Milwaukee, and in 2021, they both graduated from the Lubar School of Business. That same year, amidst the chaos of graduating during a pandemic, they brought home their first puppy! Though they had planned to wait until they owned a house, they couldn’t resist when MacKenzie’s grandpa found a litter of Labradoodles through a Culver’s drive-through. In March 2021, they welcomed Marvin, who quickly won them over with his human-like expressions and lovable personality. With Marvin in tow, they moved into their first apartment in West Allis, discovering local favorites and participating in volleyball leagues at their favorite brewery, Ope. The year flew by, filled with unforgettable memories that set a high bar for the future. The following year, Mason and MacKenzie created countless memories with family and friends. They traveled across the U.S., visiting Myrtle Beach, Las Vegas, Moab, Arizona, and three national parks. Amid their adventures, MacKenzie began her career at GMR Marketing, while Mason earned his master's degree and started at Deloitte. As they both worked hybrid, they realized their one-bedroom apartment wasn’t enough space. In early 2023, they began house hunting, and their very first offer was accepted. Excitedly, they moved into their first home in Bayview, finally giving Marvin his dream yard! 2023 was already a standout year, but MacKenzie had no idea just how extraordinary it was about to become. Christmas, her favorite time of year, was filled with festive lights and family gatherings. Knowing this, Mason planned the perfect proposal. On December 9th, with help from MacKenzie’s friend Julia, he set his plan into motion. That night, surrounded by their parents and close friends, they attended the Enchant Light Maze. After wandering through the displays, Mason found the perfect spot to drop down on one knee. It couldn’t have been a more dreamy, Hallmark-worthy moment! And so, here we are. Every person joining us on our special day has touched our lives in ways that mean the world to us. We are beyond excited to begin this next chapter and celebrate with you all on September 27th!