Best way for two people from far two different states to get to Grand Canyon?

I'm looking for suggestions on how two people - one in Topeka Kansas and the other in San Antonio, TX could get to Grand Canyon in Arizona. We are planning a week long hike in the canyon so we both have gear to transport. Should one of us meet at the others home? Should we fly and rent a car someplace (Phoenix? or Albuquerque? Las Vegas?) We have discussed this but can't settle it between us. OPEN TO ANY SUGGESTIONS (Beam me up, Scotty)