Crowds of college Freshman moved reluctantly towards their "O" group meeting spots in August of 2012. "Under the big tree at the corner where the back quad meets the top of the steps," Thomas read on a piece of paper. He walked across the quad towards the spot smiling with a pep in his step. "Bye!!" Alex sobbed to her parents as they left her under the tree. Somewhat awkwardly, they passed her again a minute later still trying to figure out how to leave campus. She tried to hold it back, but the tears returned as she suffered seeing their faces turn away for a second time. Only a moment later under this tree on the corner of the back quad at Roanoke college, Alex and Thomas met each other on the Scientific Pursuit of Happiness. Orientation groups at Roanoke are made from the elective courses chosen by incoming Freshman, and this was only the first time Alex and Thomas chose each other. Their friendship blossomed immediately sharing interests in exploring new places, meditation, movies, psychology, and evenings out with friends. The people around Alex and Thomas were quick to realize their chemistry, while the two of them insisted they were "just friends." Unknowingly synchronized even before being together, both of them secretly hoped and wished for a real relationship. Finally in January of 2014 Alex and Thomas started their relationship. Their time since has been filled with adventures around the world, across the country, and into the hearts of each other and each others families. Endless smiles, beautiful adventures, hearty laughter, and warm friendships have graced Alex and Thomas over the years. Their love has grown unrelenting, leading them to a special moment on Beam Rocks in May of 2018 where Thomas proposed to Alex. That moment was the first promise that they have and will continue to love each other forever. Alex and Thomas cherish this journey that has involved you all and are more grateful than ever to take their next steps together with you.

COVID-19 left a lot of broken plans in its wake, but Alex and Thomas weren't about to let that stop them from getting married. While this great celebration at Oak Lodge was delayed, the two collected immediate family for a small beachside ceremony in Carmel-by-the-Sea. That day was incredibly special and they are now bound by the word of their parents and the State of California, but Alex and Thomas are incredibly excited to celebrate the occasion with all of you, their favorite people!