Anna met her friend Avari leading up to their freshman year at St. Ambrose, not knowing that friendship would eventually lead her to Alec. At the time, Avari was dating Alec’s younger brother, Riley—but Anna and Alec didn’t actually connect until over a year later, thanks to a spontaneous add by Alec on Snapchat after Anna appeared in one of Avari’s stories. At first, they exchanged messages casually, but Anna wasn’t convinced Alec was serious—so she "ghosted" him… for six months. Then in August 2021, Anna replied to one of Alec’s stories casually (not) joking about how bad he was at shotgunning a white claw... yes, a white claw. They talked every day and soon met in person when Alec drove to Davenport after a late night plane ride after his spring break trip. From there, their long-distance chapter began: a year full of FaceTime calls, livestreaming each other’s basketball games, and squeezing in every little visit they could. Alec moved to Illinois just a month after Anna’s college graduation. They got their first apartment together (where Alec quickly learned Anna avoids washing the dishes at all costs unless it means putting it in the dishwater) and began building their life side by side. On Christmas Eve 2024, the two were getting ready to celebrate the holiday with Anna’s family at her grandma’s house. Alec had made plans to hit the gym that morning, even after Anna specifically told him the night before, “Make sure you wake up early—we can’t be late.” As you could guess, Alec cut it a bit too close and was still not ready when 9:30 a.m. hit—the time they were supposed to be there. Anna was frustrated and told him to meet her in the car. Just as she was walking out the door, Alec called after her: “Wait, can you come here for a second?” Annoyed, Anna replied with a few choice words but turned around to see what he needed. Little did she know when she told her coworkers the week prior that she was sure Alec did not have a ring, she was completely wrong. They were able to celebrate the engagement with both sides of the family over the next few days. Now, after a story full of twists, timing, patience, and a whole lot of laughter, the long-awaited wedding day is finally getting close. Alec and Anna can’t wait to celebrate with all of their family and friends. They’re endlessly grateful for the love and support they’ve received along the way—and they can’t wait for this next chapter to begin with all of you!