In 2005, Mara moved from Montgomery, Alabama to Grenada, Mississippi as a freshman in high school. Fast forward to April 2006, she was invited to a birthday dinner at a local restaurant called Jack and Rips. Mara was still considered the "new girl" so she didn’t know a lot of the upperclassman. Mara states, “I remember it so vividly. I was standing at the hostess stand waiting to be seated at the birthday dinner. I was super early because my parents dropped me off, and in walks this guy with smooth chocolate skin, and pretty white teeth. I was so nervous and embarrassed I don’t even think I spoke when I saw him LOL.” They didn’t exchange too many words at the dinner, but after spending about an hour admiring her Malcolm told his friends, “that's going to be my girlfriend.” Malcolm states, "I saw Mara around school before the dinner. She was the new girl so of course everyone was talking about her. I just wanted to get to know her. She was cute, but I wanted to know her." They connected on Facebook a few months later and exchanged phone numbers. After four months, Mara finally agreed to be his girlfriend.

Over the years, they have faced the ups and downs of life, and have successfully transitioned from children to young adults — together. On February 16, 2019, while celebrating his little sister's 21st birthday in Miami, Florida, Malcolm made the next move and asked Mara to be his wife. Without a moment of hesitation Mara said, “of course.”

Malcolm and Mara thank each of you for the part you have played in their life rather big or small. On May 2, 2020, they ask that you to join them in celebrating their big day.
1 Corinthians 13:4