Avery and Weldon’s story began in the most unexpected way. In August 2022, they met for the first time at a Jason Aldean concert. Neither had any idea the evening would hold such a significant encounter, but when mutual friends exchanged their numbers earlier, the two noticed the familiar Midland and Odessa, Texas area codes. Intrigued, they made a point to meet during the concert. Weldon was very eager to talk to "that girl" that immediately caught his eye at the party, and Avery strategically made sure she ended up by his side. That first introduction sparked a connection that grew over the following months, and on December 23, 2023, Avery and Weldon went on their first date in Odessa, Texas. From that night on, their story had begun.

Avery was in law school at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, while Weldon had been working in the city for over six years. During Avery’s final semester, the two became inseparable, sharing their dreams and building a foundation for what was quickly becoming a lifelong partnership. It was during these months that both came to realize that "long term" could be in play as Avery's BAR studies demanded a strong relationship and foundation. Weldon’s certainty that Avery was “the one” further solidified during a leg of her six-week “bar trip” through Europe. Weldon joined her for an unforgettable journey through Munich, Prague, Salzburg, and Vienna. While the sights were breathtaking, it was the in-between moments—navigating Europe’s famously unpredictable train system—that truly deepened their bond. Those experiences underscored their compatibility and confirmed they were ready to embark on life’s adventures together.

After the trip, Avery moved to Houston, Texas, to begin her career as an Oil & Gas Attorney, while Weldon continued working in Dallas and pursuing his MBA at Southern Methodist University. Despite the challenge of distance, they committed to seeing each other at least every other week. Their efforts not only kept their relationship strong but also reaffirmed their deep connection. Alongside their shared love for traveling, spending time with friends, and cherishing moments with their black Labrador, Teddy, Avery and Weldon built a life filled with joy and partnership.

Weldon decided to bring both families together on July 4, 2024 to ask for Avery's hand in marriage. Avery and Weldon spend a significant amount of time at Avery's parent's house in Rockport, Texas, enjoying the summer months boating, fishing, and enjoying each other's presence. Rockport served as a perfect location to ask Avery to marry him. It was the moment Weldon put on a sports coat in 100+ degree heat that Avery knew what was about to happen - She was quick to say yes and it was a day that neither will ever forget.

Avery and Weldon cannot wait to celebrate their union with their closest friends and family at The Gage Hotel on October 18, 2025. Nestled in West Texas, The Gage Hotel holds special significance. It represents their roots, where they unknowingly grew up destined to meet. It’s also a place steeped in family history—Avery’s parents, Steve and Lisa Steen, were married there, making it even more meaningful. For many guests, this will be their first time experiencing the beauty of West Texas, and Avery and Weldon are eager to share this hidden gem.

With love in their hearts and Teddy by their side, Avery and Weldon look forward to beginning their married life together and building a future filled with adventure, laughter, and cherished memories.