We first met at an audition for ORU's Prayer Movement. Nathan was in the waiting room, chatting with people and helping calm everyone’s nerves, when Haiden walked in. Something about her caught his attention, so, slowly but surely, he made his way over and started a conversation. The two quickly discovered they’d grown up just 45 minutes apart, a small-world moment that sparked instant connection. When it was Haiden’s turn to audition, Nathan walked her to the door, smiled, and told her to take a deep breath. Somehow, those words settled her nerves and, well, the rest is history.

It was a cloudy Friday in August. The kind of day that doesn’t hint at the life-changing moments ahead. Haiden started her morning by spilling coffee on her white bedspread, unaware that her “rough start” would turn into the best day of her life. After chapel and lunch at ORU, she and Nathan made a quick stop at Starbucks (the first day of pumpkin spice lattes, of course) and then to Marshall’s to find a dress for what Haiden thought was a “girls’ night.” Nathan dropped her off to get ready — off to his so-called fantasy football night with the boys — while secretly preparing the perfect surprise. Later that evening, Haiden and her friends headed to The Gathering Place. As they walked toward the exact hill Haiden and Nathan had their first date at, Haiden noticed a trail of orange flower petals and then saw Nathan, waiting for her with a smile. In that moment, time stood still. Nathan shared the sweetest words, got down on one knee, and asked Haiden to marry him. She said yes! With tears, laughter, and the sun breaking through the clouds as if heaven itself was celebrating. The Lord has been in every detail of their story, and this is just the beginning of the next beautiful chapter. We can't wait for you to celebrate with us! The picture below is of the lovebirds at their engagement, holding the portraits they painted of each other on their first date!