Michael and Lauren met at a bar in Minneapolis when they both were out with friends. Lauren was with a friend who knew Michael from high school. She went over to say hello and Lauren went along because she didn't want to be left alone at a packed bar. Lauren and Michael quickly hit it off and exchanged numbers. Soon after, Michael texted Lauren and they planned their first date. They followed Lauren's dating rule of "drinks or coffee ONLY on the first date" and went to Fulton Brewery in Minneapolis. Things were going so well they decided to walk over to a second brewery. The rest is history and Minneapolis has continued to have a special place in their hearts. It's where they first lived together, adopted Franklin, and also holds countless memories with friends and family.

Lauren and Michael were on a trip to Sedona, Arizona over Thanksgiving weekend. Lauren was a bit suspicious that Michael might propose but didn't want to get her hopes up. Michael will tell you he debated proposing on a hike or at a winery…but he quickly determined a winery was a much more "Lauren" proposal because he knew she wouldn’t want to be in hiking clothes (shocking). It was their first day of the trip and they were going to explore a few wineries in the area. Michael proposed at winery #2 in a beautiful private area full of greenery. Lauren of course said YES! He also planned a surprise dinner at a restaurant on Camelback Mountain when they got back to Scottsdale so they could continue celebrating with great food, drinks, and views.