Mackenzie and Philip’s story began in 2016 at the University of Arkansas, where a shared love for the Blues and their St. Louis roots instantly sparked a deep and lasting friendship. From cheering on their team while watching Blues games at JJs, to casual meet-ups with groups of friends and connecting through mutual acquaintances, their bond grew stronger with each passing year. What started as a simple friendship soon blossomed into something much deeper—something they now look back on as the beginning of something really special. Fast forward five years, and fate brought them back together over a couple of drinks at Ice & Fuel. What began as a casual reunion quickly sparked a connection neither could ignore. Before long, weekends were filled with lake trips, sushi dates, park dates with Bella, and late-night phone calls that lasted for hours. They even became “experts” in the occasional "heist" of Beau’s venison—all just the beginning of a love story that would only grow deeper with time. Before they knew it, Mackenzie packed her bags and moved to Dallas to be with Philip as he pursued his career. A year later, they settled in Fort Worth, where they found their first home together, welcomed a new family member (Boots), and started building a life full of love, laughter, and adventure. Then, on May 11, 2024, Philip made the most important decision of his life: he got down on one knee and asked the woman of his dreams to spend forever by his side. On the ring, he engraved the words “I Love You Forever”—a phrase he’s said to her every day since and will continue to say for the rest of their lives. With hearts full of excitement, they are beyond thrilled to begin this next chapter of their lives—together, forever.