Marion and Justin met in college in August of 2018, thanks to a well-timed introduction from Marion’s brother James. James and Justin became good friends during rush week at Kennesaw State University —and unknowingly set something special in motion. Justin asked Marion out more times than either of them can count, but having just recently become single, she wasn’t quite ready. Still, they continued spending time together—talking, laughing, going on unofficial dates—and slowly but surely, something real began to grow. On December 1st, 2018, after being asked for about the millionth time, Marion finally said yes, and they officially became a couple. Since then, they’ve been through it all: college classes, graduation, internships, new jobs, big moves, and Marion buying her first home. Through every season, they built a life side by side. One of their favorite traditions has been an annual cabin trip to the Blue Ridge Mountains with close friends to celebrate Marion’s birthday. For the 2024 trip, what started as the typical getaway would turn into the beginning of forever. Marion, Justin, and their friends arrived at the cabin on Friday. Spirits were high, the mountains were beautiful, and cocktails in the hot tub didn’t hurt either. The next morning, one of Marion’s bridesmaids, Abby, suggested making a detour to a scenic overlook before heading to the vineyard that the group had planned on visiting. Marion was skeptical—she thought they voted against hiking—but everyone else pushed the issue, and she eventually gave in. When the group reached the overlook, the fall mountain breeze gave Marion a chill, and all she could think about was heading to get some wine. Her brother James, camera in hand, rounded everyone up for photos, then sent everyone away, except for Marion and Justin. As they posed for a quick couple shot, Justin suddenly dropped to one knee. In an instant, the cold didn’t matter anymore. Justin began to lose his composure, Marion burst into tears, and even James couldn’t hold it together. Justin told Marion that he wanted her forever, and she said yes through joyful tears. Down below, at the base of the overlook, their closest friends were already cheering, ready to celebrate the moment they had all been waiting for. It was perfect in every way. Today, Marion and Justin are more than just college sweethearts—they are best friends, teammates, and soon, husband and wife.