Thomas and I met through Cru, even though he was a year ahead of me. Our paths crossed a few times during our first three years of college, but the Lord knew the timing wasn’t right just yet. We had remarkably similar college experiences—even down to going to North Africa—just at separate times. Then, in April 2024, Thomas gave a talk at Cru. Sitting in the front row, I saw firsthand just how wise (and undeniably attractive) he was. Suddenly, everything clicked. Within a week, I had a team of friends determined to set us up. What followed was a fast burn—from a nervous first date mini-golfing to making things official just days later at Claytor Lake. We spent hours watching the stars in Blacksburg, I met Thomas' family the following week during graduation, and we spent nearly every weekend on I-81 just to see each other. By July, I knew I had found the person I would marry. The next few months were spent preparing for this coming season, and on Valentine’s Day, after weeks of (albeit impatient) waiting, Thomas asked me to marry him at Claytor Lake. It was perfect in every way imaginable. We cannot wait to celebrate this new chapter with you all and to build upon what the Lord has so clearly led us to!

I had known Emily McLeod as an amazing leader in Cru, but we never interacted much. I’d heard great things about her Bible study and always noticed her joy and kindness. One night at a Cru leader retreat, we stayed up with a small group until 4 AM, and I realized—she was really fun too. That spring, someone advised me, “Find the godliest girl you know and ask her out.” The first name that came to mind? Emily McLeod. But since I didn’t know her well, I let it go. By the end of the semester, relationships weren’t on my radar. Then Betsy, a Cru staff member, asked, “Are you seeing anyone? Would you want to?” I said no and yes. Then came the question I’d hoped for: “What do you think of Emily McLeod?” My answer? “Oh, I would go out with Emily McLeod.” Betsy told me I should do something about that—soon. The next night, I asked her out. The next day, we hung out with friends. The day after, we had our first date. We spent our last two weeks of school together before calling daily and visiting on weekends over the summer. By July, I knew she was the one. After months of planning (and Emily trying to guess every surprise), on February 14th, I asked the love of my life to marry me in the same spot I first asked her to be my girlfriend—and she said yes! We can't wait to celebrate with all of the people who mean so much to us!