Jake and MJ knew each other through mutual friends and attended rival high schools. MJ never lets Jake forget that she had a crush on him well before they even knew much about each other. They were never single at the same time, and eventually went separate ways for college. After graduating, Jake moved back to Charlotte and the two reconnected while out with friends one weekend; that night, Jake learned MJ was single and began chatting with her regularly. From then on, they found themselves hanging out as often as possible, until MJ finally gave into Jake's persistence and they became official.

MJ had never lived outside of Charlotte and needed an adventure. They both knew they loved Charlotte, but were also aware they each needed to prove it to themselves before settling down. So, in the summer of 2017 they went on their first big journey together and moved to Asheville! They were both craving cooler temperatures and mountain views. They fell in love with the adorable town and those living in it, however, missed their growing families back home and knew that after marriage they would end up right back in MJ's hometown. Asheville was the adventure they both needed, and did very big things for their relationship; that sweet mountain town will always have a special place in their hearts.

On Monday, February 19th, Jake drove to Charlotte to pick out the ring he would later propose to MJ with. He didn't plan on proposing that night, until he began his drive back to MJ in Asheville and knew he would not be able to keep it a secret any longer. When he arrived back home, MJ was cozied up on the couch with their dogs and not in any sort of mood to go anywhere. After a LOT of convincing, MJ got up from the couch to get ready and go to their favorite brewery (and was not very happy about it). Upon arriving, a few of their friends met them and they all grabbed a beer and sat around the firepit in Sierra Nevada's amazing 'backyard'. Not even two sips into her beer, Jake gets down on one knee and MJ could not believe what was happening - so much so, she asked him a million questions before answering his one! After obviously saying yes, they happily bar-hopped around downtown Asheville and called each family member to tell them the news :)