We're getting married!

Mike and Valerie first met through business networking in Fernandina Beach. At the time, neither of them had any intention of dating. For a couple of years they ran in the same circles, shared many of the same friends, and built a great friendship along the way. If you live in Fernandina, chances are you probably saw them at the same events before they ever realized they were meant to be together. Then Hurricane Milton happened. While helping their friends Len and Donna get their house ready for the storm, the day was filled with hard work, teamwork, and plenty of laughs. Once everything was finished, Mike & Val stopped to watch the beach sunset. That’s when Mike looked at Valerie and said, “I think I could kiss you right now.” And just like that… everything changed. What started as a friendship turned into something neither of them expected but both are incredibly grateful for (with a few speed bumps along the way… mostly thanks to Val). Since then, they’ve shared plenty of adventures together — visiting friends in Maryland, trips to Nashville, family time in Maine, roadtripping to the Keys, work trips, and countless days on the boat and around Fernandina with friends… often volunteering, helping with local events, or supporting the community. And if it’s gala season, you can bet they’re making the circuit. Mike proposed on Cumberland Island during what Valerie thought was just a normal boat day with their friends Carl and Sheryl. They biked around the island while Mike kept wanting to stop and take pictures. What no one realized was that he was actually scouting out the perfect spot to propose. When he finally got down on one knee, Valerie and Sheryl were so surprised they kept interrupting him mid-proposal, which probably frustrated Mike just a little. But it made the moment even more memorable. It was just the four of them on a beautiful island with two close friends who got to witness it all — and yes, it was a complete surprise. Mike loves Valerie’s humor, her dedication to family, her work ethic, and her "work hard, play hard" personality. Valerie loves Mike’s giving and servant’s heart. He is always willing to help, always steady, always fun, and the kind of person who makes everyone around him feel taken care of. Most importantly, they share the same values and goals for life. Their faith in God is the foundation of their relationship, and they are committed to building a marriage with Christ at the center of their home, their family, and their future. They’re excited for their wedding because it will bring together all of their friends and family in one place to celebrate, dance, party, and start the next chapter of life together.