Neal & Mackenzie's Ybor City Engagement Session

Ybor City Engagement Photos

When & how did you meet?

Mackenzie: When and how did you meet?I honestly don't remember the exact time we first met but it was during my freshman year of high school. During that year I practically lived at my best friend's house; one day I was over there on a holiday (I think it was Christmas) and that was when I first saw Neal. I instantly thought he was the most handsome boy I had ever seen. If you're wondering WHY he was at my friend's house on a holiday, it's because he is actually my friend's cousin! Flash forward roughly 5 years, we didn't have much communication in those years except the occasionally wave if we ran into each other at my friends but then during Thanksgiving week, that same friend (Neal's cousin) was over at my place and was talking to Neal over social media, then at some point, she connected the two of us and we ended up hanging out that night and it was pure magic! The conversations we had were so effortless, I knew then, he would be mine.

Neal: I think we met back in high school at some point. Mackenzie is best friends with one of my cousins, and so I probably originally met her at a family party. Although we didn't actually begin talking or anything until around Thanksgiving time in 2016. I was in St Pete beach with family and ended up meeting her at a bar in downtown st pete with my dad of all people. Ultimate wingman.

Mackenzie, according to Neal:

Mackenzie is the most beautiful person on the inside and out. She always goes above and beyond to help others, and is extremely selfless. She has a heart of gold and lives for Christ, which to me speaks volumes of her character. Kenz is extremely accomplished for her age, and her work ethic continues to amaze me. She is very determined to be successful, and it shows in how she carries herself in business and personal life. Her smile is contagious and her laughter is infectious. She can command the room with her leadership and confidence, but does so with grace. Her love for family and friends is something to admire, and does not go unnoticed.. She has influenced my life in so many positive ways, I could not put them all on paper. When I picture the rest of my life, I can't fathom anyone else except for Mackenzie by my side. The last three years and some change have been some of the most fun, exciting, yet challenging times of my life. I cannot wait to see what the future has in store for the both of us. 

When & where did you get engaged

Mackenzie: Leap Year! February 29th, 2020 - I'll start with I was NOT expecting it but it was absolutely perfect. Neal & I love to bike ride together so that is how he planned it! That Saturday, Neal was continuously asking me to go bike riding and I honestly did not want to go. I had too many things to do and essentially was fighting it but thankfully he ended up convincing me. We started biking down the Courtney Campbell Causeway on a beautiful sunny day, we pulled over to take a little break and look over the water - all of a sudden I turnaround, seem him on his knee & he asked me to spend the rest of my life with him and of course, I said YES!

Neal: We really enjoy spending time together riding our bikes on trails. I proposed to her on Leap Day 2020 on the Courtney Campbell Causeway trail while we were riding our bikes. I am pretty sure she had no idea it was coming at the time, although she knew it was coming at some point.

Mackenzie, according to Neal:

Quick to listen and slow to speak. Neal is the most calming presence I have experienced in my life. He has always accepted me without hesitation. He inspires me to find things I love to do, to relax when I am overwhelmed, and to persevere when times get tough. I thank God daily for bringing Neal into my life, he truly is the greatest blessing, even though some days he can be quite stubborn! (; Also, have you seen his face? He is the MOST handsome man I have ever laid my eyes on! I am so grateful to have him as my soul mate, I can't wait to spend forever with him. To call me lucky is an understatement.