Abigail grew up in Lynchburg, Virginia, where the small-town charm shaped who she is today. It was here that she learned, grew, and set the foundation for the person she would eventually become. For Ben, the journey was a little different. Born in California, Ben’s childhood took him across several states, with his family eventually settling in Gainesville, Florida. Little did they know, while they were creating their own roots, my dad was attending the same university as Ben’s mom — an early, unknowing link between our two worlds. After some years, Ben’s family moved again, this time to Arlington, Virginia, just minutes from Washington, D.C. — the same city where my dad had settled. Both of their families had deep connections to the vibrant city energy, and yet, we hadn’t yet crossed paths. But there was still more in store. Their grandparents, who had spent much of their lives in Jacksonville, Florida, were another thread tying our families together. Jacksonville became a shared location, a familiar spot they both visited regularly, unknowingly circling around each other as our family stories intertwined. Eventually, the stars aligned when Ben and Abigail both decided to attend the same university. They didn't know it at the time, but that decision would change everything. Even more serendipitous, they both ended up joining the same club, Billiard Club, — and that’s where their story really began. With all these connections — between Lynchburg, Gainesville, Arlington, D.C., Jacksonville, and their shared college experiences — they found a way to stay close, even when life pulled us in different directions. During school breaks, holidays, and even in the midst of their long-distance phase, they had the unique advantage of being able to visit each other regularly. Their families, who had lived so many miles apart, now became an unexpected bridge, making the distance seem a little smaller, and our bond that much stronger.

They didn’t know it at the time, but when they both decided to join the billiards club during their first month at Radford University, they were lining up the perfect shot — straight into each other’s hearts. (Even if our pool skills said otherwise.) A few missed shots, a lot of laughs, and one very memorable party later, they realized they actually liked hanging out outside the pool hall too. So they went out to dinner — and somewhere between ordering appetizers and debating dessert, a spark started. But it was at the Roanoke Star, on their very first date, where it all really clicked. Underneath the soft glow and surrounded by city lights, they looked at each other and knew... this was something different. Then, life threw them a curveball. COVID hit, Ben graduated, and suddenly they were in a long-distance relationship — a lot of FaceTimes, care packages, and counting down the days until their next hug. It wasn’t always easy, but it was always worth it. Finally, they closed the distance and moved in together in Gainesville, building a life out of cozy nights, shared playlists, and lots of takeout menus. And now — in the sweetest full-circle moment — they're coming back to where it all began, Christiansburg, VA, ready to start the next chapter surrounded by the people who have loved and cheered us on all along.

Now, after a journey that has taken them through so many places, Ben and Abigail have returned to where it all began — the place where their love first blossomed. The couple is excited to settle down in Christiansburg, Virginia, a town that holds new possibilities and opportunities as they begin to build their future together. Abigail has recently accepted a position as a school counselor with Montgomery County Schools, a role she is passionate about, eager to make an impact on the lives of students and the community. Meanwhile, Ben is continuing his work at The Home Depot, a company he’s committed to, where he brings his skills and dedication to everything he does. Together, they are focused on building a strong foundation in Christiansburg — both professionally and personally. Their goal is to create a stable, nurturing home where they can grow their family and deepen their connection to the community they now call home. Looking ahead, they dream of one day purchasing their ideal home, a place where they can truly build a life full of love, memories, and shared experiences, all while continuing to strengthen their roots in this vibrant town.