We're getting married!

It all began at Grand View University, where we met through the esports team. We started as friends, sharing laughs, game nights, and competitions—but it didn’t take long for something more to grow. Our first date was on Valentine’s Day 2021 at Firebirds Steakhouse in Iowa. (Blake ordered a burger at a steakhouse—Courtney still brings that up!) Throughout college, we built not just a relationship, but a partnership. From late-night gaming sessions to road trips for tournaments, we became each other’s biggest supporters—both in and out of the game. In Spring 2023, we graduated together with Bachelor of Science degrees in Biology, and by then, we were inseparable. Blake has always gone the extra mile—literally. When we first started dating, he drove 30 minutes out of his way just to bring Courtney Starbucks before leaving for spring break. It’s the little moments like those that made us fall even more in love. Then, on December 31st, 2024, Blake surprised Courtney with a proposal at the Eiffel Tower in Paris. She had no idea. The ring made a covert journey through his family (we’re pretty sure it was inspired by Now You See Me) and somehow made it through security in one piece. When we stopped to take photos at the top of the tower, Blake dropped to one knee—and Courtney said yes to forever. Now, we're counting down the days until we say “I do” as Mr. & Mrs. Carney! We're still gaming together, still teasing each other (especially about steakhouse burgers), and still learning new things about each other every day. Courtney’s more of a dog person. Blake’s more of a cat person. Together, we’re just right. And yes—our favorite song is still “I Love You 3000” (Blake used to play it on the Alexa whenever Courtney went to bed early while he stayed up studying). It’s been the soundtrack to our love story, and we can’t wait to write the next chapter surrounded by all of you.