We met in Stone Mountain, Georgia in 2008 during a work conference event for Emily’s mom and Craig’s dad. We became fast friends over the weekend and thought that was the end (it definitely was not). We reconnected not long later when Emily started attending Porterfield United Methodist Church youth group activities where Craig was an active member. Through high school our friendship strengthened, whether it be Sonic runs for slushies or advice on each other’s dating life. Each of us wondering if maybe there was a bit more to the friendship but neither ready or maybe brave enough to act on it. Emily went to college at University of Georgia; Craig went to college at University of Alabama. The SEC rivalry was no match for their friendship which continued with check ins every few months or so and time to hang out during holidays back home in Albany. During Emily’s medical school there finally came a time when both Emily and Craig were single at the same time - the stars aligned 10 years later! Craig jumped on this opportunity and asked Emily to come to Tuscaloosa as his wedding date. Things took off from there and this time it was more than friendship. After 5 and 1/2 years of dating, Craig finally proposed (kidding) and now we are gearing up for a much anticipated wedding day with you, all of our favorite people.

I could write a book on all the fun experiences and incredible memories I have with Craig over the last 17 years since that weekend in Stone Mountain. We are so lucky that our relationship is built on years of friendship. I doubt you’ll read this but “You are truly my rock and I can’t wait to marry you!”.

~ Emily