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Annelise KempskiAnnelise Kempski

andand

Jared OakesJared Oakes

April 18, 2026April 18, 2026

Harrisburg, PA
12 days12 d23 hours23 h17 minutes17 min6 seconds6 s

Our First DateOur First Date

From Identifying Trees to Falling in Love

Jared and Annelise’s first date took them to the Ned Smith Center in Millersburg, Pennsylvania. Jared chose the spot knowing it perfectly blended his love for the outdoors with Annelise’s passion for art. After strolling through the gallery together, they headed outside for a walk on one of the nature trails. Along the way, Jared pointed out different trees, sharing their unique characteristics. Annelise began to fall for Jared’s gentle heart and his deep appreciation for God's creation.

Long DistanceLong Distance

298 Miles from Loretto to Roanoke

Jared attended Saint Francis University in Loretto, Pennsylvania, where he studied Marketing and Management, while Annelise attended Hollins University in Roanoke, Virginia, majoring in Finance and Economics. Whenever they could, Jared and Annelise traveled to visit each other on their college campuses or met back home for weekends in their hometowns of Sunbury and Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, just an easy 70-mile drive apart.

Weekend Adventures OutdoorsWeekend Adventures Outdoors

Hiking and Camping

Jared and Annelise love to travel to national parks and see as much as they can. They have hiked in Shenandoah, Great Smokey Mountains, and most recently, New River Gorge National park. Jared and Annelise's favorite hobby is eating snacks at the top of mountains with great views as a little reward for their hard work.

The Perfect ProposalThe Perfect Proposal

No Cell Service and a Beautiful View

Over Memorial Day Weekend in 2025, Jared planned a camping and fishing trip for the two of them at Penns Creek. On their first hike, Jared was unusually chatty and kept stopping to take photos of Annelise, something she found a little suspicious. When they reached the top of the mountain, they were met with a breathtaking view. They sat together enjoying their snacks at the overlook. Jared set up his phone to take a photo, then got down on one knee and asked Annelise to marry him. Through happy tears, she answered, “Of course I will marry you.”

Making a House a HomeMaking a House a Home

Paxinos, Pennsylvania

Jared and Annelise purchased a home in August of 2025. Over the past few months, Jared has been busy preparing the house for Annelise’s move this April. With lots of love, and help from his dad, he’s poured time and care into every detail. Annelise’s cat, GusGus, has already moved in as well. He and Jared have become fast friends, officially making the house feel like home.