We met at a best friend's surprise 21st birthday party. In fact, it was Melissa's birthday (one of Jaime's bridesmaids). Although Jessica and Melissa (both Jaime's bridesmaids) tried to set us up two years prior, it didn't "stick" until we reintroduced ourselves on that Saturday night. We are so fortunate to have met organically through amazing friends, especially during the pandemic! Gabe slid into Jaime's DM's after the party, and took her on a date the next Friday. We have been dating every Friday since!

Gabe was living in Florida at the time, finishing up Explosives Ordnance Disposal School, and was not able to make it home for Thanksgiving. After spending Thanksgiving apart the year prior, we made it a priority to spend the holiday together. Jaime flew out for a camping trip with our friends, Jake and Brienna Newman (Jake is one of Gabe's groomsmen). Little did she know that Brienna and Jake were in on the surprise! Not only did they set up a beautiful little beach picnic for the proposal, but also took incredible photos and video capturing the entire event. Even though our proposal was very remote, thanks to Jake and Brienna, we can share repeatedly with the ones we love! While that day was beautiful, the rest of the camping trip was somewhat of a disastrous storm, with tornado warnings and gnarly winds! We thought we were going to fly away, and barely slept through it. We shared so many laughs, played so many games, and made memories we will never forget.