The story of us began in Jacksonville, Florida, in the summer of 2019. Sarah attended the University of North Florida, and Matt attended Jacksonville University. Over time, it became clear that it would take more than two rival schools and a pandemic to keep the two apart. Sarah would often meet Matt on campus at the Marine Science Research Institute, where he was pursuing a Marine Science degree, where they would sit on the observation deck, overlooking the St. Johns River. It is here where their love began to blossom, and through many changing seasons, Matt and Sarah's love remained unwavering and stronger than ever. After three years of living in Jacksonville, the pair moved out to Tallahassee, FL for Sarah to continue her education at Florida State University. She has since received her M.S. in Applied American Politics and Policy. Matt works for the State of Florida as a nonnative species biologist. The duo are utilizing living in Tallahassee as a jumping-off point for the rest of their lives.

Sarah graduated with her M.S. in Applied American Politics and Policy from Florida State University in December 2023 and hired a photographer to take her graduation photos, at the start of her final semester. Unknown to her, Matt had also hired the same photographer months earlier ready to capture the moment when he would propose. Knowing that Sarah would be surrounded by her friends on a beautiful, late summer night, the timing proved to be perfect. Standing right in front of Doak Campbell Stadium, with a slight breeze swirling above and the setting sun illuminating their faces, Matt knelt down to ask Sarah a question he had been practicing for years. Caught completely off guard, she said yes to Matt's proposal. The couple encourages you to view the gallery page on this website to see detailed photos of this beautiful evening.