Our story began in 2012, with awkwardness. Ben heard a voice asking if the seat next to him was free. He turned towards the voice and replied no as he was saving it for a roommate. Upon realizing it was Jasmine, he immediately regretted his response, but the words had already been said and she was already walking away. After that point, Ben started making excuses to be around her, and we began learning more about one another. Dance club revealed how much Jasmine enjoys dancing. Study groups demonstrated Ben's penchant to learn and to teach others. A gift of a homemade chocolate cream pie displayed Ben's baking ability and Jasmine's love for chocolate. Ben was unsure whether these tactics were actually winning her over, but it was made clear when we started officially dating in December 2012 (the exact day still in dispute). From there, we built a life together: visiting Jasmine's family for holidays and summer trips, or flights to Wisconsin to see Ben's family. We supported each other through school, graduation, and in the very challenging early years of our careers. We've moved and eventually bought a house. We've driven roundtrip across the United States three times, and traveled around the world. We've created many wonderful memories together. We were not in a rush to get married, yet Ben decided to stir things up by proposing in Hawai'i in June 2023. Ben had this grand idea of proposing after a romantic hike near a beach just at sunset, but a large wave crashed into us, sweeping away Jasmine's beloved sunglasses and any chance at a romantic moment. Ben then pivoted to a new plan: proposing at Ka Lae (southernmost point of the U.S.), also at sunset. Characteristically, Ben significantly underestimated how much hiking would be needed, and the direction of travel. As sunset approached, it was clear we weren't reaching Ka Lae. With both of these mishaps, Ben decided this was the moment to conspicuously stop Jasmine and bend down to "adjust" his backpack. This was the perfect metaphor for our lives: navigating through confusions, disappointments, and mistakes, but still enjoying the journey that we took together. On one knee, Ben proposed to a shocked Jasmine. She said yes, and just in time because some locals were apparently watching this entire event through binoculars (ostensibly to make sure we weren't lost at dusk). In this life we've built together, we've planned, argued, played, laughed, and simply spent time together. One of the most important things to us is spending time with friends and family, and such is our ultimate goal with our wedding. We are super excited to share this day with those we love, and can't wait to see you there!