We met during our freshman year of college through a mutual friend, and from the very beginning, it just felt easy to be around each other. Our first date was at Papacitas in Longview, where we spent hours talking, laughing, and realizing how much we had in common. Not long after, we officially started dating — and we’ve been making memories together ever since.

During our college years, Blake was playing hockey, and many weekends were spent at the rink, with Kali cheering him on from the stands. Those years were such a blessing — not only because we got to grow up together, but also because we got to share so many moments with friends and family who mean so much to us.

After graduation, Kali moved to the DFW area to begin her teaching career — and, of course, to be closer to Blake. Not long after, we moved in together and started building a home full of love, laughter, and plenty of good food.

Over the years, some of our favorite memories have been the trips we’ve taken and concerts we’ve gone to, but we also find so much joy in the everyday moments — spontaneous Sonic runs, crawfish dinners, movie nights, card games with friends, and binge-watching short series. We’re both big foodies and love finding new restaurants (or returning to our favorites week after week), but we also love cooking at home together. Whether it’s trying a new recipe or making one of our favorites, we’ve discovered that we make a pretty great team in the kitchen — and we’re both proud to say we’re pretty great cooks, too!

Through it all, we’ve grown closer and stronger, and we’re so grateful for the love and loyalty that have carried us through life’s ups and downs. Being able to grow alongside each other — supporting one another, making each other laugh, and building a life full of fun, love, and adventure — has truly been the greatest gift.

We can’t wait to continue this journey as husband and wife, surrounded by the friends and family who have been such an important part of our story.