I couldn't be more honored to be Mark's best man. Mark and I have been friends ever since I stuck up for him in a fight at the local watering hole in Vermilion, the Zoo! Our friendship has now evolved into mostly quoting Nacho Libre over phone calls.

Vanessa and I crossed paths while working in the same industry downtown Calgary! The first time we met, she convinced me to try the "Vanessa" – a vodka soda with muddled raspberries. It was then I knew she not only had great taste but also an infectious personality that I knew was a friend for life! What do I think of Vanessa marrying Mark? Well, it’s the type of relationship that you aspire to, as it is abundantly clear that they are a match made for the movies! Mark is the type of man you hope your friend ends up with, and Vanessa is the type of person who deserves the world! I cannot wait to see what married life has to offer these two, and of course, many more “Vanessa’s” in our future!

Hello everyone, my name is Sheldon Morales. Im a 33 year old Tradesman (Pipefitter) I originally grew up in Barrie, Ontario. I moved out to Edmonton Alberta 10 years agoand thus far I have had a great time living, working, and exploring Alberta. This is where Mark McInroy comes into my story. I met Mark 6 years ago at Nova Chemicals. I had started my first day of work by sitting near this tall built dude that didn’t look weird or smell bad. Right from the get go I knew, me and this nameless guy were going to get along great. By lunch break that same day Mark and I were cracking jokes and making fun of co-workers and each other. ( We all know if you aren’t saying the most weird diabolical sh*t to your friends are you really friends?) From thence forth, Mark and I had become the dynamic duo “Salt and Peppa” countless days and hours together living, and working side by side showing up for each other through it all (Car accident included) would strengthen this unbreakable bond. Through spending those countless hours with Mark, I knew something was up after A shift at work when he didn’t want to work out and instead go visit a “lady friend”. Our work relationship and bromance world had been rocked ( Mark had found his true love…Vanessa). When Mark told me “She’s the one bro”, I knew he wasn’t lying. (Mark is an honest man,I still don’t think he has ever lied to me to this day ahahah). Seeing my brother in arms find his true love and happiness in “V” (before and after meeting her myself)I couldn’t be more excited to have her marry my best friend. I look forward to seeing you both hand in hand as husband and wife. P.S Mark is still my work wife and that will never change!!

Vanessa and I first crossed paths in downtown Calgary through mutual friends in the oil and gas industry. From the get-go, we clicked, and that instant connection turned into the strong friendship we have today. Over the years, I got to know Vanessa better while she briefly dated one of my friends—which, in hindsight, clearly wasn’t meant to be. It all worked out for the best, though, because Mark is an absolutely perfect match for her, and I’ve never seen her happier. I’m also thankful they found each other, partly because I no longer have to help Vanessa with self-tanner before her dates or listen to the blow-by-blow of how terrible they were. Now she has Mark not only for companionship, but also to save her from “near-death” hiking escapades on closed mountain trails—because we both said, “It can’t be that bad,” right? Seeing you two embark on new adventures and watching how you lift each other up has been such a joy. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for both of you, and I’m honored to be by your side to celebrate this next chapter in your lives. Congratulations, Vanessa and Mark!

We can start with setting the scene with a dark green early 2000's 5 speed manual Pontiac Sunfire. Panama by Van Halen playing as loud as it can go "Turning it up to 11!!" driving up and down mainstreet Vermilion, grade 10 and 16 years old trying to capture the moment of Mclovin, Seth Rogan and Bill Hader in a cop car in that year's cinematic masterpiece "Superbad." With a first impression like that it was pretty hard not to be impressed right? That is how it started and continued from there one weekend to the next, adventurous, and full of spontaneity and never knowing what to expect next, from concerts to rodeos and of course the Clandonald Boxing Day dances. Vanessa my sincere congratulations, I can tell that you are just as adventurous and spontaneous from the many trips that you two have taken together, it looks like you can go with the flow and live in the moment and make those moments count, I am happy that you are going to be the other half to this limousine riding, jet flying, world travelling son of a gun!

I have known Vanessa for the past 4 years. We met when I was looking for more female friends in the energy industry and was able to get her out for a coffee. After we met, I came to understand how she has become so successful and I admire her way of being able to build relationships. I continue to be inspired by her work ethic and compassion she has for the energy industry. Vanessa has always been so go go go and high energy. When Vanessa first told me she had met Mark I was so excited for her. Mark seemed to be able to allow Vanessa to slow down and understand that life isn't all about work. I have loved to see the way he is able to relate and calm her down while keeping her spark alive. When I first met Mark I knew instantly that he was the one. His positivity and smile lights up a room. When Vanessa and Mark are together it's like no one else in the room is there. The connection they have is so strong and I am so excited to see the life they build together. Congrats!

I first met Mark in elementary school. Growing up we had similar interests, we played hockey in the winter and went dirt biking in summer, and we immediately became great friends. I can remember one summer day when Mark and I were taking a break from dirt biking. One of his neighbors started running towards us and yelling; Marks looks at me and said “YIKES! Let’s get out of here!” That was the first time but certainly not the last, when Mark and I had to flee the scene of one of our adventures. I remember calling Mark one Friday and asking him what his plans were for the weekend. With excitement in his voice told me he just left Edmonton and was driving to Calgary to hang out with this amazing girl he met named Vanessa. Two and a half hours later Mark said “Alright Yamm, I’m here now, I’ll call you later”. We never did make it to the part of the conversation where Mark asked me what my weekend plans were. Mark couldn’t stop talking about this amazing girl named Vanessa. Over the years I’ve had the opportunity and pleasure of getting to know Vanessa. Vanessa is an outgoing and adventurous person who I consider a friend. Her and Mark really are perfect for each other. To Mark and Vanessa, thank you for allowing me to share in this special moment, and I can’t wait to celebrate your big day!

Vanessa and I met at a hockey game pre-COVID, where she kindly gifted me an Oilers jersey (boo Flames). I could tell right away that Vanessa was a "good" one. She was always very kind, and I quickly found Vanessa being a friend I chat about anything with. As COVID hit, she made the effort to stay in touch during the lockdown period, where we were able to hang out virtually and stay in touch. I always enjoyed catching up over some wine and wings with V, and am so excited for the next chapter of her life! Mark is a great match for V, someone that matches her energy, and heck, the guy even likes to hike! I couldn't be more excited to celebrate this day with Vanessa and Mark!

I first met Mark on the school bus during our elementary years. Growing up just a stone's throw away from each other outside of Vermilion, we shared a common bond. Both our families owned lake lots at Spring Beach, so our summers were full of adventures: from intense tube wars on the lake to constructing forts in the forest, and yes, even orchestrating chaos with pranks like deploying fart bombs in other kids' bunkhouses. These escapades remain some of the most cherished memories of my childhood. While my brother Garrett and Travis resided in our downtown Edmonton condo, Mark and I were frequent guests, forging countless unforgettable moments together. I vividly recall the night Mark received his first phone call from Vanessa, his excitement evident as he shared the news of this girl from Calgary introduced to him by Travis over Facetime. Over the years, I've had the pleasure of getting to know Vanessa during our trips to Edmonton, the Calgary Stampede, and many mountain adventures. Vanessa embodies qualities of adventure, love, and generosity, making her the perfect complement to Mark. Their future together will be full of laughter and love! To Mark and Vanessa, thank you for allowing me to share in this special moment, and I can’t wait to celebrate your big day!

Vanessa and I have been industry colleagues for years! We made it friend official in 2018 when we bonded forever in Whitefish, Montana. Together, Vanessa and I juggled the downtown professional business development scene while searching for love... There were some fun nights, some long nights and then of course, one of the best Stampede's of my life! Said Stampede, Vanessa was inviting 'Mark' to come and join some of the stampede entertainment. I was displeased to have this sand, brought to the beach. However, very happy for Vanessa to be so excited about a boy that she wanted to bring him to Cowboys. Yes, that's right. BRING. HIM. TO COWBOYS. I first met Mark at Cactus Club on Stephen Ave. This is when I remember first meeting Mark. I thought, wow, okay, very handsome. He engaged so well with Vanessa's friends and work people. When I saw Mark and Vanessa together it warmed my heart. You could see the connection between these two beautiful people was something special. Mark, so calm, grounded and kind. Vanessa, her forever smiling face and positive attitude has found her match and I couldn't be happier for them both!!

I met Vanessa, back in October of 2022 at a poker event. We were in line for drinks and started talking about sports. We couldn’t stop chatting about our love for football to the point everyone left us as we got very passionate on the topic haha. We later found out that we shared the same bucket list item to attend games at all the NFL stadiums! I was in awe of her achievements due to the fact she was only missing a handful at such a young age!! From this point forward we would get together for many lunches or drinks and would chat about everything life related. Vanessa has the biggest heart and has been my hype-up lady for the last few years! I can’t wait to finally see her marry the man of her dreams =) I met Mark, the real MVP, back in early October of 2023 at a industry party thru Vanessa. We instantly became best friends after that evening as we found out during our epic conversations we had all the same interests in life and turns out we are even the same age! The only flaw about Mark is his favourite hockey team…he loves the Oil…BOOOOOO lol. It does make it entertaining for a great banter when the Battle of Alberta occurs throughout the season. I couldn’t be happier though that he is marrying Vanessa, you two match each other on every level that a relationship values and needs!!!! I’m very honoured to be part of your special day.

Two years ago, on August 6, 2022, I received a last-minute invite from our amazing, beautiful mutual friend Britlynn to join Vanessa and Mark at Packwood Grand in Calgary. Scrambling to piece together a cute outfit that fits the theme, I was a bit nervous but excited. I was asked to meet at Vanessa and Mark’s home, where I was greeted by this incredible ball of energy who not only had her outfit perfect but also rocked an exceptional hat. From the moment I arrived at their warm and welcoming home, I was taken aback by the love and kindness they showed to a complete stranger. Since that day, it has been so clear to anyone who meets them just how much love and respect they have for one another. The way they care for and uplift each other is something I admire deeply. Their commitment to not only loving each other but also to growing together, through all life’s ups and downs, is beautiful. I love how they support each other in the most vulnerable and authentic ways, showing what true partnership looks like. That day at Packwood Grand set the tone for the foundation of love, laughter, guidance, and growth over the past two years. From facing life’s difficult moments to celebrating the most amazing milestones, Vanessa has been a constant force of kindness and resilience. And through it all, Mark has been there, taking care of us girls—whether it was holding our drinks, purses, or even fixing a drawer. That day, I not only found a best friend but also a brother in Mark. A month later, Vanessa and I embarked on a girls’ trip to Phoenix, full of shenanigans (and me almost dying on a mountain, can’t keep up with that hiking machine!). Ever since Vanessa has continued to make me laugh every day, and I am beyond excited to be part of this beautiful milestone. Through the good times and the bad, I am here to support both Mark and Vanessa, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for them. The light these two bring to a room is rare and special, and I am so grateful to be part of their journey.

Mark and I have been friends for 17 years. We both grew up half an hour away from each other in two small towns with nothing to do but run a muck. My whole adolescence I just wanted to be 'one of the boys,' and Mark was the best at ensuring I was always included. Growing up together consisted with a lot of late night MSN chats, driving around out in the country, finding a field to drink in, having bonfires, hanging out at our local Boston Pizza or partying at The Zoo. No matter where we were, it was always full of "where are we gonna end up tonight" or "I bet you can't do that" kind of moments. Knowing Mark after all these years, I've gotten to observe him closely and watch him grow into the man he is today. It's been enjoyable to watch Mark go from this young hockey boy with a flip phone to being this strong, devoted & caring man covered in tattoos. Mark is a prime example of a gentle giant. He comes off with this strong exterior and his multiple 'manly' jobs, but inside he's just full of love with one of the biggest hearts I've ever seen. He's the guy that will help you build a fence one weekend but if you needed a shoulder to cry on or a spa day, he's the one picking you up with a bottle of wine. I've been so lucky to be able to call him one of my best friends for over 15 years. Over the years, I have been waiting for the perfect woman to come along for Mark, and there was a time when I didn't think it was going to happen. I remember the first time Mark brought up Vanessa, he tried to play it off so cool like he found a new, casual friend. However, I could tell from the excitement in his eyes when he saw his phone light up or maybe it was the way he BOLTED across my living room to answer her phone call... either way, I knew that they were going to be more than friends. This one just felt different and I could see it in Mark's eyes, that he felt the same. Mark has been waiting YEARS to be able to share his love with someone special and it makes me so happy that Vanessa is the one for my bestie. When I think of the term 'power couple', Mark and Vanessa fit perfectly into that category. They bring out the strengths in each other that are so admirable to see. The love that Mark and Vanessa have is just so magnetic, any room they are in I swear lights up, the energy just increases. The first time I met Vanessa, I just felt drawn to her. She has this energy about her that is just so positive, strong and contagious. The only other person I've ever met in my life to have that same energy... is Mark. My heart absolutely melts for you two and I am so happy that you two have found each other! I am beyond grateful and excited to be apart of your special day! Cheers to the beginning of your forever together. I love you guys so much! xx

Imagine first that you are closing your eyes. I would skip straight to close your eyes and imagine, but this a written story and not an audible silly. Unfortunately you will have to keep your eyes open and I will have to transcend your current physical state using only written words. Now that your eyes are mentally closed but still actually open, place yourself in your body 10 years younger (damn you looked good then) on a somewhat quiet and cold city street in downtown Calgary. The buildings around are plain, and dark. The roads close to the curbs are full of loose dirt and gravel from a long winter coming to an end. There is a sale at Radio Shack, your iPhone version is in the single digits, and you are excited about a date to go see the Lego Movie with your friends later in the week. People would tell you jokes like ' Hey did you hear the one where Helium walked into a bar. The bartender said we don't serve noble gasses in here. And helium didn't react' To which you would respond "What does an engineer use for birth control? Your personality" Now imagine this somewhat monochromatic life that isn't necessarily terrible, but also isn't necessarily exciting either. And then one day, you are working away, re-iterating your love for the only two true primary colors grey and beige, and ahead in the distance comes a faint 'Heyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy'. Accompanying that extended hey are open arms and an energy for life and work that never stops or waivers. If I have done my job properly, this should describe the very first moments leading up and the moment that I met Vanessa. This also very likely describes the very first moment that Vanessa enters anyones life. Its an "ah-ha" kind of moment that won't leave as long as you know her as rest assured that light and energy is part of who she is. In our case, as years went by, it became less about work and more about friendship and sometimes unpaid untrained therapy through listening. Her stories may have involved private jets and mine the Calgary streets, but it was always therapeutic and bonding for both. Now to move on to Mark... before I even met him, or knew his name, I knew that something was going on with Vanessa. Her stories were going from reasons why a certain person or a situation didn't work to her being really really really quiet about things like nothing was happening, and then eventually full acceptance of reality and reasons why this one was working. Yes she was dating, and yes this one was different. She started to align herself more and more with Mark to the point that I would reference their relationship as the kind of relationship I would want in my life to people I know. I love how they are together, how they advertise their love for each other, and how they seem so proud and into each other. Whether it's on Instagram or in person, their vibe is never 'hey there might be something better around the corner' like often plagues modern swipe left/swipe right dating culture. It's just a simple and beautiful declaration through both action and words that 'hey, this is my man and this is my woman'. Although I haven't known Mark as long, I do know that I had that same "Ah-ha" kind of moment when I met him. I instantly see how he brings that same level of energy and vibes as Vanessa and how we could be friends for life. He truly is the perfect man for her, and exactly why they deserve each other and this so much.