The beginning of these hometown sweethearts’ story is hard to pin down. The insanely kind, athletic, blue-eyed, Drew, and curly-haired, bottle of sunshine, Ellie, crossed paths and intertwined for most years. Many of us recall the iconic picture of Ellie & Drew from Rolling Hills Country Club. Vibes were high, 7th grade just got out and we got to have a guy-girl hang at the pool. With Drew and Ellie attached at the hip, both sporting lacrosse pinneys, this duo was one everyone would awe over for years. They really stepped things up at the 6th grade carnival. A night that’s typically filled with nerves and inevitable drama, these two were soaking up every second they could together— frolicking around, eagerly awaiting their stop at the top of the ferris wheel. Years passed and the two stayed close friends. The stars realigned for Ellie and Drew at the end of high school. Many may think about the start of college to be times of new beginnings and clean slates. For Ellie and Drew, they’ve always embraced newness and life together. Both growing separately, while always being rooted together. From roadtrips from Roanoke to Elon, to Haverford, to Michigan and back, neither Drew or Ellie would bat an eye when hopping in that car. The ETA could be 22 hours, and these two would be smiling ear to ear, never glancing at the rearview mirror or having second thoughts. Goodbyes were always bittersweet, and yet symbolic of the love they shared and the future they envisioned and continued to prioritize together. Last year, the two followed their hearts and aspirations to the oceanside of Monterey, California. It’s been so special seeing the two of them thrive, putting each other first and starting a beautiful life together. Anyone who’s been able to visit can attest that these two make the most full itinerary ever. On February 28th, Drew beautifully executed the most amazing surprise with their families. Up until just moments before he got down on one knee, Ellie was admiring Drew getting choked up over what she thought was the beautiful scenery of the Napa Valley vineyard. Little did she know her dreams were unfolding right before her eyes-- getting engaged to her best friend, surrounded with a bountiful of love, celebrating with their families. Over Ellie’s aching knee and Drew’s constant encouragement, the two had 26.2 miles to talk about all things wedding plans just 2 days after the proposal. The perfect weekend, yet Drew’s surprises would only continue. A few weeks later, he corralled some Wilton Warriors out to Monterey, surprising Ellie yet again with a celebratory weekend. In August, as they celebrated a year out from their big day, they welcomed home Auggie. Their big-pawed, thick, perfectly golden coated, pig-snoring, yellow Labrador Retriever. A short 6 hour flight across the country, with only 1 accident, Auggie made it back to Monterey to live his best life with his paw-parents. The gorgeous sunsets, beach picnics, hikes and runs are enhanced with this four-legged friend. Ellie and Drew, it’s been such a blessing growing up with you both and watching you put each other first for forever. I feel so grateful to be by your sides, watching you both live out your dreams and lives as 1. August 7th can’t come soon enough!! - Sydney Brant