Derek and Jennifer both grew up in the greater Kansas City area. They both graduated from University of Kansas but had never met until 2019 when they matched on OKCupid. It seems after years of them being close to each other, the universe finally pushed them to meet. It didn't take long before these two hit it off after chatting online with each other. Soon enough they set up their first date. At Pinot's Palette, you're invited to follow a live painting tutorial while enjoying a glass of wine. One might think it would be intimidating to take an art teacher to a painting class, but Derek wasn't scared off easily. He rather admired Jen's artistic abilities. With a memento from their first date to remember it by, they continued to create memories together. While dating, they both learned more about each other. He appreciates how thoughtful and loving Jen is. She noticed how smart and funny Derek is. They quickly became comfortable with each other. Derek and Jen admired their partner's strengths and weaknesses for it made them who they are. Throughout their time together as a couple, they've gone on many adventures. One of Jen's favorite memories together was on a vacation in Colorado and spending quality time together. On the other hand, Derek enjoyed pushing Jen to try something new and go on rollercoasters at Worlds of Fun. Despite it being a scary experience for Jen, she knew she could trust Derek and they made a new memory. Together they have overcome many challenges. A pandemic, moving, job changes, new additions to their furry family and more. They've leaned on each other and learned how to navigate many of life's mysteries as a unit which will better prepare them for what surprises wait in marriage. After making many memories together, they decided they wanted to get married. On December 9th, 2021 Derek popped the question. They went to a bridge near the River Market and while overlooking the river, Derek got down on one knee. He asked Jennifer to spend the rest of their life together as his wife and she happily said yes. After the proposal, Jennifer and Derek carved their initials onto a padlock. This bridge wasn't any ordinary bridge, but rather Kansas City’s own love lock bridge inspired by the original bridge in Paris, France. They secured the love lock onto the bridge to remember this happy moment and the future they will have together, then threw the key into the river. After their wedding in June, Derek and Jennifer plan to move to a new place with their 3 pets. They plan to go on a honeymoon to somewhere warm and relaxing. In the future, they'd like to buy a house and have children. They don't know for sure what the future holds, but as long as they are together they'll be happy.