Rachel + JohnMark

How did you meet?

I wouldn’t say our story began with a “love at first sight” moment. In all honesty, we didn’t even really like each other or acknowledge each other‘s existence for about two years. As a freshman in college, I was sure of two things: people never change, and I would date and marry someone taller than myself. The Lord surely has a sense of humor. I am glad He does.

When I first met JohnMark, he was a bit of a punk – long hair, beat up car, and a guy who walked around with an angry look on his face. Classic skater boy vibes. He was a bit rough around the edges and unpredictable. And if anyone knows me, I am big on predictability. I simply didn’t understand him, and he simply didn’t understand me. If you had told us we would later marry, we would have both laughed.

Over the years, I saw JohnMark transform from a hard person into someone who was approachable and caring and someone who has deep understanding of what it means to love.

When did you know they were the one?

By my senior year and his junior year, we had become best friends. This friendship only continued to grow stronger after I graduated, and he started his senior year. I still wasn’t looking for anything, as I was focused on work and completing my MBA. Through it all, JM continued to be a consistent encourager and listening ear.

Then one day while we were returning from enjoying a sunset on Raccoon Mountain (totally something friends do), JohnMark looked at me while driving and confidently said, “Can I be honest with you? I like you!” JM, I am so glad you were honest with me that day. Thank you for all the sweet memories, beach trips, ski fails, longboard rides, and 5am workouts. I just simply wouldn’t change a thing.

What are your three favourite attributes of your partner?

JohnMark is the kindest person you’ll ever meet.
He includes everyone and has a heart for those around him.
He has a contagious sense of humor that will leave you on the floor laughing.

Who proposed and how?

Sunrise on thanksgiving day morning. We went down to one of our favorite overlooks to watch the sunrise. We sat and talked for a while and then all of a sudden I saw his sister up here with a camera to capture the moments. He knelt down on one knee and asked me to marry him and I said “OF COURSE”

Where did you fall in love with your dress and why?

The MWL Louie Flowy and I have a long history. To be honest I knew I was going to wear that dress on my wedding day long before JM even proposed. Dresses have always been hard for me to find since I’m not super into rhinestones or lace. My mom and I have joked about how hard it was going to be to find my wedding dress and have kinda dressed the day because of my particular taste.

When I first saw the Louie flowey I was pretty sure it was the one. I purchase it at Malindy Elaine bridal boutique in Tampa Florida. They were phenomenal to work with and got me my dress right in time. I cannot thank them enough.

During my fitting, I tried it on for my first dress and knew it was the one. After trying seven more on, it only solidified my decision further. IT HAD TO BE THE LOUIE!!

What was the best moment for you at your wedding?

The entire day was magical but I would say the most special and memorable moment of our wedding was our last dance together which was a private dance as our guess lined up for the send off. Just both of us dancing our heart out with no one else around.

What were your favourite details?

I wore my mom‘s veil which was really special.

What advice would you tell other brides?

I would say that no amount of preparation will make you fully prepared for the day. Do as much work as you can on the front end to make it magical but also have an open mind to live in the moment for the day and Pulliam brace everything that happens. The good, the bad, and the tender moments. If something is out of your control, just let it go. It will all work out.