Max and Ellie first met during their college years at Colorado Mesa University. Ellie had just started school and joined the mountain bike team, while Max, a sophomore at the time, was also on the cycling team racing BMX. Their paths crossed for the first time at a team BBQ at the beginning of the school year. They started seeing each other regularly outside the chemistry hall, where Max had a class right after Ellie’s. After a few invitations, Ellie finally agreed to hang out with Max and his friends one evening. They stayed up late getting to know one another, sharing stories and telling jokes, and there was an instant connection they both felt. From that night on, their friendship grew stronger and it wasn’t long before they began dating. After both graduating from Colorado Mesa University, Ellie decided to pursue medical school, which brought them to Joplin, Missouri, in 2024. Max, after finishing his degree, began racing professional BMX and launched his own business as a personal trainer—both passions he’s been able to pursue in Missouri. In May of 2025, Max proposed in Colorado, surrounded by their closest college friends—the very same friends who were there the night Ellie first came over. It was a full-circle moment, filled with love, laughter, and the people who have been part of their journey from the beginning. Today, Max and Ellie live in Joplin with their beloved 2-year-old golden retriever, Maizy. They’re so excited for this next chapter and can’t wait to celebrate their journey with you.