Rachel & Jacob

We met in October 2022 on Bumble. Jacob's profile said, "Looking for someone I can take home to momma," which stole Rachel’s heart. Our first date at a cajun style restaurant was memorable - Jacob’s card didn't work, so Rachel paid! He redeemed himself by taking Rachel to the Alabama vs. Mississippi State game the next day, where we spent time with Rachel’s Tuscaloosa friends and shared our first kiss.

We got engaged July 4, 2024 on the beach in Destin, Florida. After our traditional Merlin's Pizza sunset dinner, Jacob proposed during a walk. The ring features his grandma's diamond, making it extra special. We spent the night calling loved ones and watching fireworks.

We married at the same beach location on March 15, 2025, with 30 close family and friends, celebrating afterwards with Merlin's Pizza (of course). The following weekend, we held a beautiful reception in Alabama for 200+ guests.

Our close-knit family spends a lot of time together simply because we live in close proximity to each other and we enjoy being together. However, our family shares a history of tradition and beloved gatherings. Each year, our annual 4th of July celebration at Rachel’s cousin's lake house brings the entire extended family together for a day of swimming, grilling, boating, and watching the fireworks display. Christmas mornings hold special meaning with our traditional breakfast, which began generations ago with my great grandparents. Of course, we always come together to celebrate birthdays, easter egg hunts and meals, traditional pumpkin carving and/or decorating, and the annual Thanksgiving meal.

Perhaps our most treasured tradition is our week-long October beach vacation with family. Everyone sets aside their busy fall schedules to spend time together in a huge beach house in Destin, FL. We also have a close group of 8 friends and their spouses whose children range from 6 months to 3 years old. We get together at least once a month for fellowship and a meal. We have our tradition of “Friends-giving” and Christmas get-togethers. Quality time and precious memories with family and friends are irreplaceable in our hearts and minds.

Together, we have experienced incredible adventures. We traveled to California to watch the Crimson Tide in the playoffs, spent four days sightseeing in LA, and experienced the Rose Bowl parade with close friends.

For Christmas 2023, Jacob surprised Rachel with her first Disney World trip in September 2024. Watching her face light up seeing the castle made it worth every penny. We spent the week riding rides, eating, and meeting favorite characters. Another trip is planned for December 2025.

Jacob’s personal favorite was our honeymoon where we also celebrated Rachel’s birthday. We spent a day at Disney World before going on an eight-day Caribbean cruise to Aruba, Curacao, La Romana, and Amber Cove. Each day included planned excursions from bus tours to swimming with dolphins.