Jon and Nikki met on an off-roading trip coordinated by a group of mutual friends. The trip was to celebrate Jon’s 30th birthday on Sunday June 7, 2020. Upon meeting, Jon immediately saw something special in Nikki. With a passion for off-roading, this wasn't his first excursion; however, this was NIkki's first adventure off road, and one she would never forget. Once they arrived on the mountainside, the crew pulled over for a barbecue and celebration. Jon made his move and started up a conversation with Nikki. After the barbecue and while the crew was descending down the mountain, mutual friends persuaded Nikki to ride with Jon. Bashful as they were, Jon and Nikki took their first of what would be many rides together. During the ride, there was a large puddle to cross. Not knowing what was under the water, Jon continued on and hit an unexpected drop off, catapulting Nikki into the ceiling, resulting in what was later identified as a minor concussion. On the verge of tears, she embraced the excitement and Jon's laughter, gathered her bearings and trucked on. Nikki reunited with her friends at the trailhead, but only after ensuring she exchanged numbers with Jon first. It was quickly decided by all that the day wasn’t over just yet, so everyone prepared to head out to Jim Creek. It was here that the two rallied into the midnight sun, laughing and learning about each other.
Two weeks after meeting, Jon and Nikki were nervous, yet excited to go on their first date. They met for dinner at Olive Garden in Anchorage. Dinner was such a success that they didn't want the night to end, so it didn't! They spent the next six hours with each other at Point Woronzof, reveling in the midnight sun, side by side as two hearts aligned.
Jon and Nikki lived in two different cities over fifty miles apart, thus limiting their time spent together during the week. Despite the distance, they were determined to see one another and often resorted to FaceTime as a means of spending time with each other. They spent their nights talking and sharing, usually falling asleep on the phone. They fell asleep together and woke up together, budding feelings they never wanted to end. After a short time, Nikki’s step-father encouraged her to be forthcoming with Jon her intentions that she was seeking a husband, a partner with which she could build a future. Nervous as she was, Nikki trusted in her heart that their love connection was strong and foundation solid. After telling Jon her ideal plans for a future, he met her with similar plans of his own to find a bride and build a family. Excitement for their future together took hold and the two began to fall for each other even more! Not long after, Fourth of July weekend approached, a fun weekend already planned with camping and mudding. As they packed up on Friday, July 3rd, Nikki worked up the courage to ask Jon if he was interested in taking their relationship to the next level, solidifying their feelings for each other and embarking on a new journey together onward. Without hesitation, Jon assured her they were in it together, and so, forever began to unfold. The couple spent the whole weekend together, celebrating in the sun at Jim Creek.
To celebrate Nikki's 32nd birthday, the couple rallied all their friends to join them for a fun weekend at Jim Creek. With lots of love, laughter and fun to be had by all, everyone celebrated Nikki’s birthday with a backwoods bonfire. Unbeknownst to Nikki, Jon had big plans to surprise her after the trip was done. He patiently waited for the perfect moment, one that came after they'd arrived back home from a fun-filled weekend. On Sunday, August 23rd, Jon presented one last birthday gift to Nikki, a request for her hand in marriage and in life, her heart forever if she'll have him. Elated and overwhelmed with love, she eagerly accepted Jon's offer and said "Yes!"