Alexis and Ciera’s journey began in Milwaukee, where they both grew up and studied Psychology at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Despite sharing a hometown and similar academic interests, it took five years, 870 miles, and a pandemic for their paths to finally cross. In 2020, Alexis was living in Madison, WI, creating music for children and teaching. He began posting "Dear Soulmate" statuses on Facebook, and one particular post caught Ciera’s eye. It made her laugh, and after checking out more of his posts, she was inspired by his talent, accomplishments, and passion for uplifting youth. She decided to slide into his DMs to introduce herself and compliment him—they haven't stopped talking and laughing since. Their connection grew quickly, fueled by a shared love of music, spirituality, social justice, working with kids, and hiking. At the time they met, Ciera was living in Atlanta, completing her PhD in Clinical-Community Psychology at Georgia State University. The couple maintained a long-distance relationship for two years, visiting each other whenever they could. When Ciera’s academic path led her to Lansing, Michigan, Alexis followed. For the past three years, they’ve lived and worked at Michigan State University, building a community of friends and making Michigan feel like home—despite being far from family. They’ve enjoyed traveling and creating new traditions together knowing that their future will be rooted in the places and experiences they share. In August 2025, Alexis proposed to Ciera in a beautiful lavender field at Cherry Point Farm. The proposal, set in nature (one of their favorite places to be), was part of a month of surprises Alexis had planned to celebrate Ciera’s birthday. Now, as they prepare for their next chapter, Alexis and Ciera are ready to start a family of their own and continue building a life full of love and new traditions. They plan to elope to Hawai’i for an intimate vow ceremony before returning to Milwaukee to celebrate with family and friends. Their wedding reception will take place on their 6 year dating anniversary.