Shoutout to Instagram. Alex had the courage to request to follow Ari … but was too nervous to slide into her DM’s. Eventually, Ari sent a “Happy Birthday” message to Alex. Ladies, shoot your shot! We engaged in small talk, went on our first date a week later, and the rest is history. We grew up in Mansfield, shared mutual friends, and enjoyed similar activities … but never crossed paths until Fall 2021! God truly worked in His mysterious ways.

Alex took Ari back to Arbor Hills Nature Preserve for a quick stop when running errands after church. This “small detour” would become the most memorable detour in their relationship ever. They began to walk on one of the trails and stopped at the scenic outlook tower. Time froze in that moment for them. Without a soul in sight, Alex popped the question.