Aeryn and Riley technically met way before they even realized it mattered. Our parents have been best friends for years, so we grew up going on camping trips, BBQs, and family vacations together. We were always around each other, just part of the same group, making memories without knowing it would turn into something more someday. Looking back now, it’s pretty special that our story started so early and so naturally — built on years of friendship, family, and time spent together.

Over time, things naturally started to change. We began spending more time together — grabbing food, hanging out with friends, and choosing to be around each other more often. It all felt easy and familiar, and at first, neither of us really thought much of it. That changed on the Fourth of July in 2023 at Riley’s uncle’s BBQ. After weeks of spending time together, a few shots of tequila and some subtle (and not-so-subtle) PDA made us start seeing each other a little differently. After that, we kept spending time together, letting things grow at their own pace, until it became clear we were building something real.

On June 28th, 2025, Riley took Aeryn downtown for a night that felt perfectly “us.” We were almost at the restaurant, Adelina, when he suddenly said, “I don’t know if I locked my car.” Aeryn had no idea the engagement ring was inside the car, so she joked, “What are they going to steal, a box of towels?” Once we ordered, Riley went back to the garage to check the car. When he returned, he was sweating — he had run to make sure the car was locked and, most importantly, that the ring was still there. I was completely confused why he had sprinted all the way back and gotten himself so sweaty, but it only made the moment funnier. Thankfully, the car was unlocked, but the ring was safe. After that, we headed to the rooftop to take some pictures of us with our car's. While the video was rolling, Riley popped the question. It felt completely like us — a little funny, a little chaotic, and completely perfect. Surprising our family afterward made it even more memorable, and the answer, of course, was the easiest yes.

We’re so excited to start this next chapter together — and even more excited to celebrate it with all of you! Get ready for laughter, dancing, maybe a few questionable dance moves, and a whole lot of love. We can’t wait to make memories, share this special day, and start our future surrounded by the people who mean the most to us.