We’re Gettin’ Married!!

It feels like just yesterday that jake “swiped right" and we embarked on this extraordinary journey together. Lets go back to how it all began. Jake, living in Redding, California, and Ellie, residing in Medford, Oregon, connected through fate and an infamous dating app. Their conversations over the phone were filled with heartfelt serenades and goofy moments that captured Ellie's heart. And after weeks of anticipation, Ellie summoned the courage to drive 2.5 hours to meet Jake in person on that memorable day, March 15th, 2020. As destiny would have it, a sudden circumstance left Ellie stranded at Jake's family home. Mr. And Mrs. Smolinsky, being the kind souls they are, graciously opened their doors and welcomed Ellie to stay the night. Little did they know that this would be the beginning of an extraordinary bond. The following weekend Ellie returned to Redding, something powerful clicked, prompting Jake to ask the most crucial question on March 28th, 2020 - he asked Ellie to be his girlfriend. Of course, she said yes! They quickly grew closer, dreaming of a future intertwined and eagerly waiting for life to hit "play" again amidst the challenges brought forth by the pandemic. Their love story continued to unfold as they nurtured their relationship, cherishing each weekend they spent together. However, their plans to embark on an escape to Florida were met with unforeseen obstacles. Thankfully, their friends from Mckinney, Tx came to their rescue, offering them a temporary home until they could find their own place. The days flew by, and on September 13th, 2020, Jake and Ellie bid farewell to their loved ones, starting a new chapter in Dallas. As time passed, the dream of Florida slowly faded, and they found solace in the vibrant life of The Lone Star State. Renting their first apartment in December, their little family grew when they welcomed their first fur baby, Brinkley, into their lives in January 2021. The next three years were filled with love, laughter, and beautiful memories all in that “shoe box” 1 bedroom apartment. Fast forward to March 26th, 2024 - just two days before their much-anticipated 4-year anniversary. Jake's nerves and a hidden secret were beginning to take their toll. But Ellie, ever perceptive, pieced together the clues and directly asked Jake about the impending proposal. Unable to contain his excitement any longer, he confessed everything. The next day, as the sun began to rise, Ellie, equipped with her freshly done nails, a beautiful dress, and pure anticipation, she made her way to Fort Worth where Jake asked the biggest question of their lives. And a little bit of a spoiler alert… Ellie said "yes!"