We're getting married!

Dillon's family moved to Shell Knob in 2003. Four years later Emma's family bought a lot at Mill Creek and began building their lake home. Sadly, the next few years were marked by tragedy and loss for both of them. Dillon, losing his beloved brother, Jarred; and Emma, losing her beloved father, Joe. Shortly after, Dillon and Emma first met. They found solace in each other during a difficult time in their lives and quickly formed an everlasting friendship. After initially meeting in 2010, Dillon and Emma kept in touch but it wasn't until 2013 that they were able to spend an entire summer together.. and what a summer that was. Dillon (unfortunately) had a broken leg but that meant he was able to spend all day every day with Emma- just another bittersweet event to add to their story. Dillon taught Emma to wakeboard, surf, drive a boat, and shoot a shotgun. Emma taught Dillon how to shotgun a beer, sing (out loud) to the radio, and let loose. What they taught each other is to appreciate the little things, cherish every moment, and always love one another. But it was young love. Emma was a junior at the University of Iowa, career driven and preparing to apply for graduate school (which eventually took her to Texas) and Dillon remained in Missouri, going to school and working for the Corp before returning to his Welch Homes roots. The one thing that remained constant was their friendship; always remaining close despite the distance and even seeking each other's advice during the hurdles of other relationships. It wasn't until four years later (there's a theme here..) they reconnected in Shell Knob again. That's when they knew- this was it. Everything aligned and nothing had ever felt more right for either of them. Emma knew Dillon was the man she was destined to spend forever with and nothing else mattered. Dillon will say he knew Emma was the one since 2013 and was waiting for her to catch up. The timing was right; Emma had caught up; and their forever truly began.