I first saw Eric at the gym in Downingtown, PA in 2020. I was interested in him immediately, but our paths wouldn’t officially cross until December of 2022. We went on our first date and the old cliché of “you know when you know” proved to be true. Eric proposed in May of 2023. He was initially planning a surprise proposal - intended for a week after he actually proposed - but he couldn’t wait, and “popped the question” on May 20th. Thank God for his timing, as he suddenly became very ill the next weekend (the day he had initially planned the proposal) and was hospitalized in the ICU for several days. Thanks to the undying support of our families, endless prayers, and God’s mercy, Eric recovered. Although we spent the first few months of our engagement planning medical appointments and navigating a new and unpredictable situation, our bond grew stronger and more unbreakable than I had ever imagined possible. I couldn’t picture a life without Eric’s smile, laugh, and selflessness — I couldn’t live without him. While that was one of the most trying times of both of our lives, it was a true test of our faith and our love, and we’re forever grateful to God for each other, for health, for our families, and for our lives. We have a lot of toasts to make now, so we can’t wait to celebrate with you for the entire year leading up to the big day! Thank you for being a part of our lives, our wedding, and our story! Love, Kiersten (and Eric)