BJ and Destri first met in their senior year of high school through mutual friends. What started as casual conversation soon grew into a connection marked by easy laughter and late-night talks. As graduation approached, they were both excited about their futures—BJ headed to Mizzou, while Destri to Missouri State. Though their college years kept them busy, they stayed in touch, visiting each other when they could. After Destri graduated and returned home for a month, they reconnected. Their time together was a chance to reflect on how much they'd changed and grown during their time apart, and it was clear that their bond had deepened in ways they hadn’t expected. As Destri moved to St. Louis for school, BJ soon followed, and their relationship grew stronger with each day. Together, they discovered new parts of the city, enjoyed each other’s company, and built a solid foundation for their future. In May 2024, BJ proposed to Destri at a scenic overlook, asking her to be his partner for life. She said yes, marking the beginning of this new chapter in their lives, and they stepped forward into the future together, ready for whatever comes next.