McKenzie and Jack’s story is the modern fairytale we didn’t know we needed—proof that love can begin with a single comment on TikTok. What started as a casual “set him up!” moment turned into a real-life romance when these two drove over six hours to meet in person. The spark was instant, and since that first meeting in Wilmington, their love has grown through distance, change, and joy.
To celebrate their engagement, the couple chose the dreamy streets of Charleston—drenched in soft pinks, golden light, and the kind of charm that mirrors their story. From pastel outfits to palms swaying in the breeze, this session is sweet, cinematic, and full of the same heart and authenticity that drew them to one another. With their wedding day set for the French Huguenot Church and The William Aiken House next summer, their journey is just beginning.
“Love is a choice you make… and it’s beautiful when you have the right person by your side to help you through it all.”
How did you two meet? What were your first impressions of one another?
We met through a viral Tiktok that was posted by one of Jacks older sisters friends while they were all on vacation together. He has no idea until he was getting so many followers on tiktok so I reached out to him thinking nothing would come out of it. We started texting and ten days later we decided to each drive 6+ hours to meet each other in Willington, NC which was the half way point between both of our hometowns. We hit it off right away and immediately connected and have been together ever since through so many changes. I would say that McKenzies first impression was that Jack was a little nervous and shy but so sweet and brought me flowers and a little note. Jacks first thought was how outgoing and bubbly McKenzie was.
Tell us a funny story relating to your wedding day or relationship!
McKenzie knew Jack had been ring shopping and just looking at potential options but didn’t think Jack had any intention of buying anything at the moment. Well one morning we were on our way home from the gym and Jacks phone starts ringing. He didn’t have this number saved by glorious caller ID said it was the jeweler that I had known he was at a few days prior. Of course we laugh about it now especially because McKenzie is probably the hardest person to surprise and Jack is the worst person to keep a secret.
Describe a hurdle you had to overcome in your relationship or during your wedding planning.
About six months into our relationship McKenzies parents actually got divorced.
This was extremely hard on McKenzie and lead to a lot of tough feelings, built up emotions, and honestly sadness. We have also been doing long distance from the very start which is hard all on its own. Add that on top of transferring colleges for the both of us to two seperate schools in two seperate states, a huge family change for McKenzie and then the growth of a new relationship. It was very tough but we made it through and showed us that we really will always have each other.
What is the best thing you’ve learned from one another?
Jack has taught McKenzie a lot more patients, grace, positivity, and hope.
McKenzie has taught Jack more about acceptance, loving others, gentleness, and self love.
What is your favorite thing about each other?
McKenzies favorite thing about Jack would have to be how passionate he is about his hobbies and the things he loves. He wants to do so many things with his life and he always wants to work towards making it happen. Jacks favorite thing about McKenzie would be how she cares for animals and people around her. McKenzie loves the ocean and always talks about how much she loves and wants to care for the sea animals.
What was your favorite part about planning your wedding?
Design! We love making all the color choices, linens, plates. All the small details I feel like are so important and so fun and really just bring everything together.
If you had one piece of advice for other couples, what would it be?
Even though you may be going through a hard season of your relationship does not mean it will last forever. Relationships are hard, they take effort, and time so give yourselves grace and know that it is you both against the problem not you vs your partner.
What is the most honest thing you can say about love?
Love is a choice you make, and it is hard and takes a lot of work but truly love is beautiful when you have the right person by your side who is there to help you through it all.
Photography: Shelby Darling Photography / @shelbydarlingphoto
Planner: Helena Elizabeth Events / @helenaelizabethevents
Florals: State Soleil / @statesoleil
Ceremony Venue: The French Huguenot Church / @huguenotweddings
Reception Venue: The William Aiken House / @pphgevents
Publisher at The White Wren and Bajan Wed, Award Winning Photography + Videographer at Live View Studios, Dad, 80s music lover, crunchy health advocate
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