Tyler and Rachel first met while in school through a mutual friend and later grew much closer when they began working together on campus. What started as a friendship gradually turned into something more, and by November 2019 they were inseparable. They officially made it “official” in May 2020, during a time when the world felt especially uncertain. Over the years, Tyler and Rachel have grown together through every season of life. They navigated COVID side by side, supported each other through long stretches of distance during Tyler’s active duty orders in Fort Lee, Virginia, and Fort Drum, New York, and balanced demanding schedules in the National Guard, graduate school, and a healthcare profession. Along the way, they celebrated meaningful milestones together, including moving into their first apartment, each purchasing their first cars, and graduating from the university where they first met. Tyler went on to earn his master’s degree, while Rachel became a medical-surgical nurse and, nearly four years later, achieved her dream of working on a labor and delivery unit. That same year, Tyler’s promotion brought him back to their alma mater, where they both met and graduated, to serve as an Associate Director. On January 2, Rachel believed she was planning a simple Christmas-themed dinner date at a holiday pop-up restaurant in Verona, a chance for them to finally enjoy a night out together after a hectic season that had left little time to slow down. Before dinner, they stopped at a nearby bookstore, where Rachel spent nearly fifteen minutes reading the backs of books, completely unaware of what was coming. As daylight faded and temperatures dropped, Tyler politely rushed them along, knowing a photographer was waiting. He then suggested a walk through Verona Park to take a few “Christmas pictures.” In the middle of the park, Tyler got down on one knee and asked Rachel to spend forever with him, and she said yes. Through every challenge and achievement, Tyler and Rachel have built a relationship rooted in support, resilience, and partnership. They are excited to celebrate this next chapter surrounded by the family and friends who have been part of their journey.