Kendra's Perspective I was finishing my last year of grad school at the University of Pittsburgh. Instead of studying for an exam I had the next day, I decided that joining my friends at our favorite happy hour spot, Steel Cactus, was a better idea. Well happy hour extended when I looked across the bar to see a very handsome guy. After a drink (or two) of liquid courage, my friends and I made our way over to talk to the group of guys Christian was with. My terrible flirting attempts must have charmed Christian because our first date was two days later and we have been together ever since. I am so thankful for our chance meeting that night and every day since. Disclaimer: I still passed my final! Christian's Perspective I was interning for the Steelers and living in downtown Pittsburgh. My buddy suggested going out for drinks in another part of town, Shadyside, with some of the other guys we worked with. Our guy's night did not last long when three girls came over. One (Kristin) made fun of my buddy's hat, one (Rock) told us she was from Georgia in a southern accent (she's not from Georgia, which was discovered when we told her we were from Florida) and the last (Kendra) would not let me buy her a drink because she knew the bartender. She ended up taking my drink when the bartender didn't come over and despite the chaos of these girls, we followed them to the next bar. Kendra and I had an instant connection that night and the stereotypical play it cool and don’t talk for a couple days did not apply to us. We realized early on that our family values, faith and goals aligned and we started dating shortly after.

We were in my hometown, Harrisburg, for the baptism of our goddaughter, Harper Joy. On our walk through the city to meet my family for dinner, Christian stopped me in front of the state capital where he got down on one knee and proposed. After confirming if he was sure twice, I said yes! Still in shock, I heard cheering from the balcony above. I actually thought it was strangers that were watching, but quickly realized it was my family and friends that Christian had coordinated for the surprise. We got to celebrate with all our loved ones over dinner! Christian had been planning for months so the real surprise was that my mom did not let it slip.