We're getting married!

Hey, friends. Mallory here. Most of you know our story. For those who don't, Mitch and I met in 2008 at Camp Lake Stephens, the summer before our eighth grade year. We knew of each other but didn't truly become friends until we returned home. "Home" for us was two and a half hours away - Mitch in Greenwood, me in Tupelo. Mitch quickly became one of my closest friends and the person in which I found myself talking to during all hours of the day. We once talked on the phone for eight hours straight. Eight. I used all the monthly minutes on my LG flip phone in that one night. Worth it. The rest is history. I am forever indebted to camp, our college, our friends, our family and our loved ones who have supported and encouraged us each day along our journey. We have had the privilege of learning and growing together. I look forward to our life as a married couple and the memories we continue to make with each of you.

The journey leading up to the proposal was a wonderful experience. It was the hardest secret I have ever had to keep. Although I had the day planned, there were aspects that I had not planned for. First, I had to convince my animal-loving fiancé that we should go to the botanic garden instead of the zoo. Then, just like any normal Saturday, we went to brunch. I wasn't pressing her for time, although I was stressing on the inside that she would order another bottle of champagne. When we pulled up to the garden, they were closed for an Easter egg hunt. No problem, we can go across the street to Dixon, another garden. Then I get the text. Dixon had an engagement picture fee and a waiting period. Who has the cash or time for that when the photographer is here, friends and family are waiting at the afterparty and I am trying to propose to the most wonderful girl on the planet? I go to the restroom, sweating bullets, to figure out the next move. Thankfully, Bailey (Mal's best friend) got it figured out. I can breathe. We walk around the garden (while I'm scrambling to find a new perfect proposal spot). There was a statue that wasn’t much to look at but provided a distraction while I get the ring out. But of course, we stop to look at the statue, and Mal says, "That’s neat” and walks away. Confused and panicking, I continue to walk around. Then I decide, no, this is where it’s happening. I awkwardly hint that we should take a second look at the statue. “Why, it’s just a fish statue?" Great. She hates it. At this point, I think she is actually getting frustrated, confused as to why I am so fascinated. She was so caught up looking at the statue, it gave me time to pull out the ring and get down on one knee. Mal turned around and instantly keeled over crying. I started crying shortly after. Once we finally got words out, I had to ask if I even "asked" since I blanked and was too excited to process what was happening. This experience was the best thing to ever happen to me.