We’re Tying the Knot!

Nathan and Amanda’s story began at the University of Kentucky, where Amanda transferred into a higher-level Chinese language class during her freshman year. Nathan, always sociable, added Amanda to the group chat he had created for the class. Unaware and assuming it was a mistake, Amanda quickly left the chat without a second thought, leaving Nathan curious. Despite this initial hiccup, Nathan’s interest in Amanda only grew. After a few months of conversation and shared time together, he invited her to dinner at his favorite restaurant in Lexington under the pretense of celebrating her birthday. In hindsight, they both agree this evening was their unofficial first date. Nathan, always ambitious, graduated with three bachelor’s degrees and decided to remain at the University of Kentucky to pursue an MBA while Amanda completed her undergraduate studies. During her 3rd year, Amanda received a job offer from Northwestern University, she accepted the position, balancing her new role with her coursework, and their story relocated to the Midwest after their time at UK. After enduring a year and a half of long-distance challenges due to the job search and COVID-19 pandemic, Amanda and Nathan were finally able to move in together in April 2021. They were joined by their dog, Mousse, and adjusted to cohabitation during an unprecedented time. Neither had lived with a significant other before, and navigating life together while largely confined to their home was a learning experience that strengthened their relationship. While on vacation in Europe, on September 28, 2023, Nathan proposed to Amanda in the Luxembourg Gardens in Paris. True to form, Amanda was blissfully unaware of his plans until the moment he knelt down to propose. The beautiful setting, combined with the element of surprise, made it a memory they will cherish forever. Nathan and Amanda now look forward to celebrating their marriage in May, surrounded by their closest family and friends in the picturesque Dordogne region of France. Their story, filled with milestones and shared dreams, is just beginning, and they are excited for the future that lies ahead!