If you asked Benton's mother when Benton and Grace first met, she would say that she remembers holding Benton and Grace both at the church nursery when they were infants. If you asked Benton, he would say he first remembers Grace as the spunky, talkative girl in his first-grade homeroom class. And if you asked Grace, she might say she remembers Benton as the annoying teacher's pet who had no time for anyone but his sports-enthused friends. But regardless of who your narrator is, all would say Benton and Grace's story started long ago.

Benton and Grace were classmates at the same school from kindergarten to high school graduation. They didn't always know they were destined to be together, but at the beginning of their freshman year, Benton worked up the nerve to confess to Grace that he had a crush on her in awkward, teenage fashion. The sincerity of that moment was the foundation for a committed relationship that has grown through nine years of shared joys, challenges, and deepening love.

When it came time to leave for college, Benton and Grace landed in different spots but decided they would try their hand at long distance. But after one very long and lonely semester, they realized life apart wasn't nearly as fun as life together, and Grace joined Benton at Baylor.

Then, when it came time to take the next step in life, Benton and Grace both made the decision to pursue law school. Only this time, they knew they wouldn't make the same mistake; they were sticking together. They both managed to land spots at the University of Texas School of Law, and now both have plans to start their careers with law firms in Austin.

Benton and Grace's story is about growing together, from grade school friends to life partners. Over the past nine years, Benton and Grace have walked hand in hand, continually placing their love for each other first. Theirs is a story of commitment, kindness, and love that lasts.

Thank you to each and every one of you who has played a role in this story. We would not be here today without the incredible network of loved ones around us, and we look forward to seeing you all on May 24th.