Jaelen and Mackenzie met their freshmen year of college, where they both ran for the same cross country and track team at Ouachita Baptist University. Both of their freshman roommates were dating each other at the time, so Mackenzie and Jaelen spent a lot of quality time together. They quickly became close friends and bonded over shared experiences.

Jaelen asked Mackenzie to be his girlfriend on October 28, 2022 after a fun night spent in Benton, Arkansas. They went to Texas Roadhouse, got ice cream, walked around different shops, and finished the night at a haunted house with close friends. That Texas Roadhouse has become one of their favorite date night spots!

Over the years, they’ve supported one another through life’s big moments and worked hard to achieve their goals—most recently being accepted into the Medical University of South Carolina. In the fall of 2025, they moved to Charleston to begin a new chapter together.

On March 8, 2025, Jaelen proposed to Mackenzie at sunset on Folly Beach. With hearts full of gratitude for how God has guided their journey, they are so excited to begin their life as husband and wife.

They can’t wait to celebrate with all their family and friends on December 30, 2025!