Amber and Caroline’s love story began on June 7, 2022, in the vibrant world of dating apps, where chance encounters can lead to profound connections. Caroline had recently settled in Champaign, Illinois, ready to embrace summer adventures alongside her best friend. Meanwhile, Amber was in the nearby area at the time trying to juggle family visits. On a whim, Amber decided to try Tinder again, hoping this time would be the charm. And charm it was – Caroline was on the other end of the screen, laughing and charming her way into Amber's heart. Their first date unfolded at The Original Pancake House, where the simplest of meals became a backdrop for laughter and connection. They found common ground in their shared love for breakfast foods, exchanging stories that revealed their dreams and aspirations. As the conversation flowed, they felt an undeniable chemistry that urged them to step away from the table and continue their connection. They made their way to a nearby park, where the calm waters offered a perfect setting for their budding romance. Hours slipped by as they talked, and Caroline introduced Amber to the delightful art of rock skipping (one of her many hidden talents). As the sun began to set, painting the sky with a breathtaking array of colors, they stood together captivated not only by the beauty of nature but by the realization that they had discovered something extraordinary in one another. Amber and Caroline’s serene meeting rapidly evolved into a shared commitment, one that encapsulated the magic that can flourish from the most unexpected moments. Now, they're still laughing, skipping rocks, and making breakfast food. It's not your typical love story, but it's theirs – and they wouldn't have it any other way.

Knowing that Caroline loves Christmas trees, and hopes to have her very own Christmas tree farm in the future, Amber knew that was the perfect place to get down on one knee. So, on December 9th, Amber set her plan in motion. They started their day off with lunch at Olive Garden. After finishing at Olive Garden, Amber explained to Caroline that she had to go out and get a late anniversary gift for Caroline. So Caroline stayed home and took a short nap while Amber went to set up the proposal. Amber proposed at a small, private Christmas tree farm in Belleville, Illinois. She met up with a local photographer at the farm, whom she had booked two months in advance, to go over last-minute photo ideas. Amber then walked around the Christmas tree farm searching for the perfect tree to propose to. Finding the only Christmas tree that had pinecones on it, another nature item that is Caroline's favorite, she decided on that one and got to work. She took out wooden letters that spelled out 'Marry Me' and hung them off the branches of the Christmas tree. She also had some photos of the two printed out that highlighted some of their favorite moments throughout their year-and-a-half relationship. The next thing to set up was a blanket that had Christmas trees on it, a red barn, and a red truck carrying a tree on the back of it. Underneath the blanket, Amber placed the letter she had written out so she could read it to Caroline before asking the question. Last, she hung up the Christmas tree ring box, which contained the engagement ring. Fun fact, this was the same Christmas tree box that Amber gave to Caroline when she gave Caroline her promise ring. After all the setup was done, Amber then drove home to get Caroline. Caroline did not know what they were doing other than going to an event that Caroline mentioned she wanted to do. This wasn't a lie. Caroline mentioned to Amber she wanted to tour a Christmas tree farm this holiday season. Caroline was very excited when she realized where Amber was driving them to. However, she then asked what else they would do there and Amber mentioned there was a photographer to take their photos, which is why they needed to dress nicely. Holding hands, Amber then led Caroline to their tree. Caroline let out a surprised gasp and put her hand over her mouth, asking Amber, "if she was serious," just before she started crying. Amber then pulled out and read through the letter, before finally asking, "Caroline Elizabeth Schmidt, will you marry me?" Caroline let out a keen but tearful yes as the question led to more happy tears falling. Following the proposal, the two partook in a 20-minute photo session before heading back home, where they called their close loved ones and friends to spread the exciting news. They ended the night on a dinner cruise on the Mississippi River.