Alec and SJ crossed paths about a hundred times around Drake University's campus before they officially met. They went to the same events, circled the same friend groups, and SJ even visited his hometown in Colorado months before their meeting. Their story started when SJ was Alec's coach for a synchronized swimming charity event for her sorority. They won first place, obviously. Alec had hots for teacher and sent SJ a meme on Valentine's Day. After seeing concerts, building furniture, studying at Perkins, and CrossFit workouts the two became inseparable.

October 2016- First "Official" Meeting March 2017- Alec & SJ begin Dating May 2018- Move-In to their 1st Place April 2020- Welcome to the Family Shyla March 2021- He asked, she said Yes! November 2022- They say "I Do"

For weeks Alec spent the early mornings hand carving a wooden engagement box. On the big day, their four-year anniversary, he surprised SJ with a breakfast spread of waffles, champagne, bacon, and a slide show of their last four years together AND a trip to a fancy architectural AirBnB in Bellevue, Iowa. SJ was still unsuspecting! After some red wine and beautiful views of the bluffs, Alec had a final surprise. He handed SJ a thoughtful card, and when she finished reading, Alec was on one knee with the wooden box and diamond ring and said, "Sami Peick, will you marry me?"