The story begins when Jake and Grace were in high school and Jake needed a date to the junior prom. He asked Grace to come over for pizza on Grand Ave and a movie, where he chose Miracle to see if she could keep up with his hockey dreams. Jake took a chance and asked Grace to prom after attending one of her dance competitions. Both Jake and Grace had not yet outgrown their acne or baby fat, just two young kids searching for fun and laughter, never knowing that it would become a true love story. Jane and Dave (Grace’s parents) were instantly enamored with Jake’s polite charm and genuine character. It also helped that he was a great hockey player and gave Dave a reason to attend high school hockey games again. Peter and Mary (Jake’s parents) were impressed with Grace’s drive and zest for life, knowing that she would keep Jake on track for a rewarding life. But the most supportive people in this relationship were Grace’s Nana and Jake’s Grandma. The two were classmates in high school and hadn’t seen each other since the late 40’s until they both attended one of Jake’s hockey games. A small world it is, indeed. Early in their senior year, Jake got accepted to Harvard to play college hockey. Grace had her heart set on the University of Minnesota Dance Team and couldn’t give up on her own dreams to follow Jake out East. They knew they had a decision to make - stick together and do long distance or break up. At that point, the two of them had grown inseparable. Jake would drive over to Larkin Dance Studio after his hockey practices and Grace would sneak out of class just to spend a couple minutes with him. It was obvious to all of their friends and family that the two were in love and they could light up any room they walked into together. It was the kind of love that went beyond a typical crush, the two were soulmates. So breaking up was off the table and they headed off to college more in love than ever!
Long distance wasn’t easy, but Jake and Grace always made it fun. The phrase “absence makes the heart grow fonder” is particularly true for two lovesick college kids trying to make their way in life. When apart, they would work hard in school and athletics, while also establishing their respective friendships that would last a lifetime. When together, the two’s love shined even brighter and they enjoyed being able to introduce one another to new friends and experiences. Every time they said goodbye for another 6-10 weeks, Grace cried and tried to switch her flight later in the day to be able to spend just a few more minutes with him. Jake pretended to hold it together but would feel a hole in his life when she left. Thank God for FaceTime! Grace and Jake truly believed that if they could make it through the distance, they could make it through anything. That bond that they created while apart built a true friendship. They endeavored into the real world with a best friend by their side that could empathize with them through their stuggles… literally. Grace and Jake were working at rival investment banks across the street from one another. Those were some of the hardest months in their relationship but it was yet another test in ensuring that they were ready to make the ultimate commitment to each other.
Fast forward to today, Grace and Jake are more in love than they’ve ever been. Not only does their love grow every day, but their respect for one another grows with it. They embody unconditional love and support and continue to be best friends through the hardest of days. They’ve got the sweetest pup in the world (Millie), who fills their days with excitement and activity. They’ve bought their first house together and have loved making it into a home. They stay rooted and humbled by their faith in God, who they know is the strongest pillar in holding their relationship together. They thank God every day for the life they are able to live! They believe that if you’re lucky enough to meet your soulmate, never ever let them go. Grace and Jake are one of the most fun-loving couples out there and are looking forward to celebrating their commitment to each other and God with you all!