It was June 6, 2020.

Mackenzie and Jeremy were supposed to be saying “I do” in a chapel filled with their friends and family. But June 6th came and went, and there was no wedding.

Like so many others, Mackenzie and Jeremy had to make the difficult decision to postpone their wedding due to the outbreak of COVID-19. But they weren’t going to let that keep them down.

By the time September 25th rolled around, they were beyond ready to say “I do”. And not just because they had to postpone the wedding. But because these two had been preparing for this moment since they first started dating in junior high school. Yes, you heard me right… Junior High School. I’m talking passing notes between classes, cheesy Valentines Day gifts, homecoming dances, and flip-phone texting.

I’ve had the privilege of knowing Mackenzie since kindergarten. (I seem to recall a Chuck E. Cheese birthday, pool parties with pinatas and pizza, a Jonas Brothers concert, guitar hero, and many, many sleepovers). We have so many memories full of fun and laughter. But never have I known her to be half happy as when Jeremy’s with her… There’s no question about it – these two were a match made in heaven.

But the best part about knowing you guys for so many years, is watching you grow… You were just kids when you embarked on this journey. Looking back, you knew so little about life, love, and the world. You had no idea you were building the foundations of a marriage. You just knew you were having fun.

But together, you grew. You learned what it really takes to have a loving, committed relationship with each other. Sometimes it was easy, and sometimes it was hard. But you discovered life together. And through all of that, you’ve grown into two beautiful people. People that lift those around them up, and never bring them down. People that are kind, caring, thoughtful, and generous. People that are intentional about showing those they love how much they mean to them. People that show others what it means to love and respect each other.

I am so proud to call you my friends. I’m proud of the people, and the couple, you’ve become. Jeremy, never stop making others laugh. And Mackenzie, never stop warming others’ hearts with your beautiful smile. It truly lights up the room. I can’t thank you enough for giving me the honor of capturing this incredible day for you guys. It was truly perfect, and so worth the wait. I’m so overjoyed for you both. I love you guys so much! Congratulations, Mr. & Mrs. Lang!! <3