Our journey begins in the heart of Texas, nestled in the small town on the Brazos—College Station, TX.

It all started during our freshman year at Texas A&M University, where the unsuspecting Southlake girl and the Aggieland-raised guy embarked on a four-year adventure, blissfully unaware of the incredible journey awaiting them.

Throughout our time at A&M, our paths intersected sporadically amid the chaos of college life. From the spirited atmosphere of Songfest to the fun energy of date parties, we shared the same campus, yet our worlds rarely collided. Little did we know, the pages of our story were gradually unfolding.

We yelled as the Aggies took down Alabama, weathered a rare and unexpected snowstorm, and were moved by General Mark Welsh’s Muster speech. Yet, these pivotal moments, etched in our memories, were experienced separately.

It wasn’t until the fall of our senior year that a new chapter unfolded on a rainy December night, just before heading home for Christmas Break. The sparks of connection that had been kindling throughout the semester resulted in a kiss, carrying us into the holiday season with a shared secret.

Returning from the break, our paths crossed more frequently. What started as casual hangouts quickly revealed a deep connection. It became evident to me that the shy girl I met freshman year was the one the Lord had destined to be my wife. Our journey, however, was anything but traditional—our first date included my parents, our weekly date nights featured one of my best friends, and we attended a pre-marriage weekend before even getting engaged.

In the fall of 2023, after eight months of dating, I nervously approached Mr. Neely for a dinner conversation. Despite ordering a salad at a steakhouse out of nervousness, I gained permission and valuable advice to proceed.

On December 27, 2023, I took a knee and asked Elizabeth Nicole Neely to Marry Me. Amidst shock and emotion, her shocked yet joyous "Yes!" marked the beginning of a new chapter. The following moments were filled with an unforgettable meal and discussions about our dream wedding.

Now, as I write this letter, you, the reader, have played a pivotal role. Whether you are a cherished family member, a trusted college roommate, a high school best friend, or you somehow googled our names and found our wedding website, know that you occupy a unique and cherished space in our hearts. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for the inspiration drawn from the examples you've set, the prayers you've graciously prayed, and the love you've generously given us.

Mark your calendars for August 24, 2024, as we formally establish the newest Holmes Family in Aubrey, TX. We invite you to be part of our joyous celebration, the culmination of a love story that has grown from the tender roots of Aggieland to the flourishing promise of forever.

To those who have journeyed with us, we express our deepest gratitude. Elizabeth, my love for you knows no end, and I eagerly anticipate the adventure that awaits as we navigate the future hand in hand, just as those bright-eyed freshman kids once dreamed.

Forever and always,

Mason Holmes