05.16.2025

In the fall of 2018, Austin began his first year of medical school at the University of Wisconsin, and Jessica moved to Madison to begin her marketing career. With busy schedules, Bumble seemed to be the best option for dating. It wasn't long before a message turned into a first date at the Henry Vilas Zoo holiday lights, followed by cocktails at The Mason Lounge. That first date turned into a second, then third, then many more after.

When Austin asked Jessica to make things official 6 weeks after their first date, he'll never let her forget that she initially turned him down. Come March 2019, Austin's patience paid off. Along came a pandemic and they decided to quarantine together, adopt a kitty (Rosie), and navigate the uncertainties of the time with the support of one another. This season gave them confirmation that a lifetime spent with each other would be pretty fun.

In 2022, Austin began interviewing for residency programs. It was at this time that they explored what life after medical school might look like, starting with a new addition...a rescue pitbull named Willy. He added hilarity and a challenge for Austin and Jess to adjust to in the midst of big life transitions, like the potential for a move following Austin's match into residency. On Match Day, they were thrilled to learn they'd be moving to Milwaukee for the next 4 years for Austin's residency at Medical College of Wisconsin.

After settling into their new home in Milwaukee, Austin and Jess visited the jeweler to look at rings together. Little did Jess know, Austin brought THE ring to Miss Wisconsin USA in May 2023 and met her family for dinner to ask for her hand before going to support Jess at the pageant. In June, Austin and Jess planned their annual weekend trip to Door County, the destination of their first vacation together years prior. Austin coordinated a photographer to capture the moment as they visited the beach for post-dinner sunset. However, instead of walking Jessica to the sand, he detoured her to the end of the dock. In true Austin fashion, he knelt down in a mess of bird poop. She still said yes.