We first crossed paths in high school, where we shared mutual friends and were even paired up as lab partners. However, we never really connected on a personal level for different reasons and after he graduated the year ahead of me we didn't see or even speak to each other again. Fast forward three and a half years later, and God had a plan for us!! I discovered that Andrews youngest sibling, Lilly, had been a student in the special education class I worked in the previous year. This unexpected connection brought us together, and it felt like everything was meant to be. Looking back, we truly believe that it was all in God's timing. If we had connected in high school, things may not have worked out, but now with a strong bond and a deeper appreciation for each other, we're excited to start this new chapter together <3

Andrew got down on one knee and popped the question at one of our go to date spots in the summer, Holland state park beach. Don't ask me what he said because the second I turned around and saw the love of my life on one knee with the most gorgeous ring I've ever seen in his hand, I completely blacked out. Even though it was freezing cold outside and the wind was whipping, I said YES!! It was the perfect proposal, and now every time we go on a date to the beach it feels even more special. We couldn't be happier to start this new chapter together :)

The ring is extra special to the two of us because after Andrews grandpa passed away, his grandma came to him with her wedding ring. She wanted him to have it so he could use the diamonds to create my engagement ring. It means so much to us that it carries that much family history and such a special love story before ours. Andrews grandma always loved and supported us so much and was always there to talk to us through everything. God's light was such a huge presence shining through her, it was contagious. Even though she's also passed now and will miss our wedding day, we love that she got to be and continues to be such a huge part of our story.