Austin started his Ph.D program at the University of Cincinnati and Annie was in her last year of her Doctorate of Physical Therapy program. Austin was new to Cincinnati, and made friends with another member of his cohort, who just so happened to be a good friend of Annie's from her undergrad years. As fate would have it, the mutual friend invited both of them to a game night, which turned out of be the first of many game nights to come. The two began hanging out together and bonding over their interests in sports, video games, and bourbon.

After a few months of getting to know each other and meeting each other's friends and family, the two decided to make it official. Shortly after they started dating, the global pandemic Covid-19 shut down normal day-to-day life. However, Annie and Austin grew closer during this time by enjoying the outdoors, binge watching Netflix, and game nights together. As the world began to open up again, the two began to travel to visit friends, ballpark stadiums, and fun places local to Cincinnati.

It became no question Annie and Austin would be spending the rest of their lives together, which came to fruition on a Friday evening in late June. Annie and Austin were invited to a "going away party" for one of their friends at the AC Hotel in downtown Cincinnati. What Annie didn't know was that Austin coordinated this with their friends to surprise her and propose that evening. Although Annie was suspicious from the start, she did not see a ring box in his pocket, creating some doubt that this may not be the night. However, Austin was hiding the ring (with no box!) in his shirt pocket. As they reached the rooftop, only a couple friends had arrived. They all ordered drinks the two present friends went to order food. At that moment, Austin pulled her aside and expressed his desire to spend the rest of their lives together. He got down on one knee and asked Annie to marry him. Without a doubt, Annie said yes! Friends and family joined to celebrate Annie and Austin that weekend!

We hope to see you there!