Wedding Day

Ceremony

Reception

Our Wedding

John Mark and Anna first crossed paths in September 2020. Anna had just moved back to Birmingham after spending a few years in Chattanooga. John Mark was in his senior year at UAB. Their initial meeting was friendly. A few weeks later, they bumped into each other at a young adults' dinner at Dawson Memorial Baptist Church, their now church home.John Mark, wanting to get to know Anna better, invited her to dinner as friends. At the end of the evening, he took a chance and asked her out on a date, but Anna, feeling they were in different stages of life and not looking for a relationship at the time, politely declined. John Mark respected her decision. They continued to build a friendship over the next two years. Working out together at CrossFit, going on occasional walks and attending church, they continued to enjoy each other's company while dating other people casually.In the spring of 2022, John Mark suggested they see the new Top Gun movie on a whim. Afterward, he took another chance and asked her out. Anna, fearing that a romantic date might jeopardize their strong friendship, hesitated. She had been down this road before and was afraid to risk losing him as a friend. Despite her reservations, John Mark remained patient, kind, and respectful. In July 2022, while John Mark was away on a mission trip with Dawson, Anna was reading Single. Dating. Engaged. Married by Ben Stuart, a book her mentor had recommended. The book explores God’s intended purpose for each stage of life and offers insights on choosing a life partner. As Anna read about the enduring qualities to look for in a spouse, she immediately thought of John Mark and realized she was ready to explore a romantic relationship with him if he was still interested. When John Mark returned from his trip, Anna shared her thoughts over dinner. She let him know that if he was still open to dating, she was ready to give it a chance. John Mark’s patience and persistence had paid off, and they began dating shortly after. Their strong foundation of friendship allowed their relationship to flourish quickly. Two years later, on their anniversary, John Mark proposed, and Anna said yes!John Mark and Anna are thrilled to embark on the next chapter of their lives. Looking forward to a future together that glorifies God with a foundation of faith, family, and friends welcoming everyone into their circle.

From Friends to Forever

Our Story

Photos

Emily is the closest thing I have to a sister. We were born two days apart, attended Pre-K -through 12 together and conquered long-distance college besties to now long-distance adulthood besties! We have been best friends for 24 years now, wow (we're old). She is loyal and kind, consistent and funny, and my dearest friend. I cannot imagine this day without her and I am so excited to have her by my side! 

Emily Salter

MP and I became friends sophomore year of college as we were suite mates. We became fast friends and have since traveled together, laughed, cried, and everything in between. We have walked through the highest of highs and lowest of lows together but we both are committed to loving one another well and I am thankful! MP cares for others deeply and is the perfect balance between reliable and fun! She is a light and always down to dance with me so get ready for a party on the dance floor. I am grateful to have her by my side!

Mary Page Martin

Suz! Suzanne is one of my very best friends. We have known each other our entire lives, but really got close in 2020, when I was in GA during Covid. She and I spent almost every day together and quickly she became one of my most cherished friends! Suz is a wonderful listener, she always strives to make others feel known and valued, and she is sincere. She was the highlight of Covid and now a life-long best friend! 

Suzanne Smith


Libs is truly a gem! We began as acquaintances in college, became roommates, and now I consider her one of my closest friends. Our bond deepened as we both started dating around the same time, served together at church, and worked to build community. Libs is fun, genuine, a dedicated prayer warrior, and she radiates beauty inside and out.

Libs Wolbach

Joanna is my "God Sent" friend from Samford. After a challenging freshman year, I studied abroad as a last hope for Samford. I had been praying for a new friend in a new circle. I purposely signed up for this trip knowing no one with hopes to find a new friend or two. Day three of this trip stumbles in Joanna and she says "Your outfit was awesome at the airport and I think you are cool. We should be friends." This was the answer to a prayer I had prayed for months. I knew God was telling me to stay at Samford. Joanna and I became close quickly throughout the London trip and have never turned back! Joanna is creative, fun, joyful, and such an encourager. She is full of well-rounded talents from singing to baking, from crafting to marketing... You name it, she can do it! I am honored to have Joanna standing by my side during this special chapter. 

Joanna Feldewerth

Casey and I met freshman year of college as we were on the same hall. She was shy at first, but once she came out of her shell, I knew this girl was FUN! Casey is one of the most Godly, kind, patient, understanding women in my circle. She is always asking how she can pray for me, and pushing me towards Christ. Casey is a bundle of joy mixed with honey and I am lucky to have her in my crew!! 

Casey O'Neal

Hales is the life of the party. She and I met freshman year as we also lived on the same hall and quickly bonded over our love for ice cream, music, and oreos. She is the ultimate hype woman, always game to dance, one of the funniest people I've ever met, and she's a genius. Haley is an all-star (hehe iykyk) and I love her deeply! 

Haley Clawson

Bre and I met freshman year and I noticed she was in a solo room on our hall. I knew that had to be strange (but also awesome) so I immediately befriended her. I noticed she wore the same dress as me to senior prom on her photo wall and knew we would become friends. She and I have had the best times together with traveling, concerts, and have also walked through extremely challenging seasons together. She's a fellow black lab owner, and appreciates music like I do. Bre is fun, wise, and is great with her words when you need them the most. 

Breanna (Bre) McCracken

Abigail, otherwise known as "Lamby" is a sorority sister of mine from college. We really got to know each other senior year as roommates and quickly established a special friendship. Abigail is wise beyond her years, never meets a stranger, and is intentional and consistent. We encourage one another well and can always make each other laugh. I am proud to call her one of my dearest friends! 

Abigail Byars

Cailyn is a one-of-a-kind friend. She and I met through Dawson Choir and I invited her to join a small group on Monday nights. She came and we realized we lived close to one another and started to carpool. Every Monday night for almost two years we would ride together, go to bible study, and then almost always end up talking for over an hour in the car afterwards. She is the type of friend that I can count on to cheer me on, she is reliable and shows up, and she knows how to make everyone feel joy. Cailyn has lived in Tuscaloosa for the past year and even so, we talk almost weekly and show up for one another. She is a bundle of joy.

Cailyn Miller

Wedding Party

Q + A

Make sure to explore this part of town should you stay here. Down the street is the Soho area of Homewood. AtHome is one of my favorite stores but the whole area has great shops and food!

Aloft Birmingham Soho Square

This hotel is in the same area as Aloft- so many cute shops within walking distance! If you would like to adjust the dates of your stay but still use our block, please call the Valley Hotel directly at 205-354-0171

Valley Hotel Homewood Birmingham, Curio Collection by Hilton

If you stay here, LanePark is just down the street and has so many shops and fun spots. Check out Ladybird Taco, Leaf &amp; Petal, Brick &amp; Tin, and Golden Age to get you started. Should you wish to adjust the dates for check-in/check-out please call directly at 205-414-0505 and ask for the Rogers/Boozer hotel block.

Grand Bohemian Mountain Brook, Autograph Collection

Travel

This 54-acre linear park is the best spot for walking and jogging. The natural beauty of the area makes Jemison Park one of the most popular walking attractions in Mountain Brook. This gorgeous trail makes you feel like you are in the mountains and away from the city. The perfect getaway spot for some scenery and enjoyable exercise! Fun Fact: This is one of the first spots Anna and John Mark went to hang out as they started dating and is still a special place they like to take Lyla to swim or go for a long walk.

Jemison Park

A cozy, local gem in the heart of Homewood, Seeds Coffee is one of Anna's favorite spots for a coffee date with her fiancé, John Mark. Whether you're looking to enjoy a freshly brewed cup inside or soak up the sunshine on their outdoor patio, Seeds offers the perfect setting. Anna loves the friendly, welcoming vibe, and at this point knows all the workers! For a little extra treat, make sure to stop by the sandwich truck parked outside, where you can grab a delicious bite along with a cold beer or wine in the afternoon. It's a true local must-visit, offering a unique mix of great coffee, tasty food, and a chill atmosphere. Perfect for your morning pick-me-up or a relaxed afternoon hangout. Fun Fact: This coffee shop is right across the street from Nexus Fitness, where Anna and John Mark initially met and still workout!

Seeds Coffee Co. - Homewood

Want to go shopping? Check out the Summit or go over to Homewood and check out shops such as: At Home, Cottage Basket, Three Sheets, and more! Great area.

The Summit Birmingham

The Vulcan statue is the largest cast iron statue in the world, and is the city symbol of Birmingham, reflecting its roots in the iron and steel industry. Designed by Italian artist Giuseppe Moretti and cast from local iron in 1904, Vulcan has overlooked Alabama's largest city from atop Red Mountain since the 1930s.

Vulcan Park and Museum

Birmingham Zoo

Birmingham has some pretty awesome pizza spots, but this one has to be our favorite! Open since 1964, you can't go wrong with this gem! Take a glimpse back in time and enjoy the best pizza in town!

Davenport's Pizza Palace - Mtn Brook

Award-winning Alabama microbrewery. At Back Forty Birmingham, they are all about innovation, whether it be in the brewhouse or the kitchen. They offer a variety of American and European craft beer styles, all brewed on-site and served fresh. To complement their brews, they offer a creative menu of gourmet pub foods. Anna and JM Order the Back40 Cheeseburger as a personal favorite!

Back Forty Beer Company Birmingham

For a unique and stylish night out, head to Collins Bar in Birmingham. Known for their expert mixologists, they’ll craft a custom cocktail based on your personal tastes—just tell them what you like, and they’ll create something special. The modern atmosphere and rotating menu of seasonal drinks make it the perfect spot for an unforgettable drink in the heart of the city.

The Collins Bar

Located in a two-story 1920s-era shotgun-style building in downtown, Helen is a contemporary Southern grill led by Chef Rob McDaniel and Emily McDaniel. Prime meats and seafood are cooked in an open kitchen, served alongside vegetables and non-traditional sides on a menu driven by seasonality and product from local purveyors.Must Try: Angel Biscuits!

Anna & John Mark

Anna & John Mark

Registry

If you are local to Birmingham, we have registered at Bromberg's and At Home Furnishings in Homewood. You may also visit www.brombergsbride.com to purchase a gift there as well!