Josh and I met through my cousin and his wife, Ryan and Lee Catherine. Ryan and Josh were friends and coworkers, so he set us up on a double date on May 5, 2022. It was casual and fun. Josh got my number from Ryan and made the first move by texting me. He came to the bank where I work to ask me out on our first date in person, though. I thought that took some guts. We went to the movies, but it was one of the worst ones we have ever seen - very strange and about Vikings? Still a good date, movie was just weird.

My first move was inviting Josh to hang out at my aunt and uncle’s house (Carrie and Cliff Barefoot.) In some ways, they knew Josh was the one before I did. He quickly fit in with my family, which was a huge thing to me. I met his family a few months into us dating, and it was the same for me. We just fit.

As time passed, Josh and I got more serious and started talking about our future together. My dog Haze claimed Josh as his favorite person. We traveled, enjoyed concerts and holidays, and I realized Josh was the man for me.

Josh proposed and I said yes on October 7, 2023 at Lee Catherine and Ryan’s house. Josh knew what I wanted for my engagement ring, and he used a diamond from my great aunt Mattie to create the perfect ring. My brother, Will, was instrumental in getting me to go to the right place at the right time for the proposal - I kept telling him where to drive and park, and he completely ignored me so I didn’t ruin the plan! After Josh proposed, our families came running out to hug us and bring us inside to our surprise engagement party.

Josh and I have spent a lot of time on the farm where I grew up, so we decided to have our wedding and reception in Itta Bena. Morgan City Baptist Church holds so many memories for me - it’s my home church and also where my parents, grandparents, and aunt and uncle were married. Our reception will be held on our family’s farm.

We are so excited to celebrate our love with our friends and family on December 7th!