Michael and I met in college during the summertime, at the one house party he and his roommates ever threw. He lived near UW Milwaukee in a house with some friends from his engineering program, one of whom was a mutual friend. My friend and I showed up early to their house, and after quick introductions, Mike offered us guava juice (very hospitable). I was determined nearly from the start to get Mike to notice me. I tried to shake off my nerves, which was a little easier after playing a few drinking games. I was delighted when, a few days later, Mike asked me on a first date. He took me to his favorite sushi restaurant on the East Side, and then we walked along the marina on the lakefront. We had such a strong connection that we didn't want the day to end! We are so fortunate that just like during the first date, our connection, understanding, and love have always come effortlessly. This was helpful when I returned to UW Oshkosh the fall after Mike and I met, while Mike stayed in Milwaukee. Mike would drive up to visit on the weekends on his Buell motorcycle, undeterred by cold or even rainy weather. I would make the occasional trip to Milwaukee, where there was always a new restaurant to try or festival to stroll through. Despite the distance, it was during this time that I truly fell in love with Milwaukee and with Mike. Soon, Mike and I moved into our first apartment, a 1920s Mediterranean Revival-style apartment in Shorewood. That steadfast apartment saw us through so many life-changing experiences: college graduations, the pandemic, our first jobs in our chosen professions, bringing home our beloved tabby cat Rosie, and countless Harry Potter movie marathons with friends. A moment that changed our relationship forever was when Mike proposed at a paint and wine night we’d hosted for my birthday. We were surrounded by so many of our close friends and family, yet Mike had kept his plan close to his chest. He suggested that we take a group photo, to my surprise, since he normally avoids photos if he can help it. Still wearing our art smocks and in front of our loved ones, Mike got down on one knee and asked me to marry him. As we look towards our future, our hopes and dreams are simple yet profound - settling into our new home, growing old together in love, and seizing every moment that life has to offer. To our wedding guests, we want to express our thanks, love, and gratitude for being a part of our lives and our special day. Love, Ellie TLDR: We're getting married... let's party!