Our story began in the summer of 2020, right smack in the middle of the covid pandemic. Both Kaleigh and Heath were living with their parents, taking college classes via Zoom while occasionally swiping through Bumble. Funny enough, Kaleigh had matched with Heath once before but never worked up the courage to message him (girls have to message first on the app or else the match "disappears.") Fate gave these two a second chance, though, and when they matched again later that summer, Kaleigh made sure to message Heath. Of course, Heath has to remind Kaleigh of this from time to time and poke fun at her, but Heath wasn't perfect either and nearly missed the window to message her back! The two messaged back and forth for a month before going on their first date and the rest is history! With Heath living in Edwardsville and Kaleigh in Manchester, there was lots of driving back and forth initially in their relationship. Kaleigh's parents joked they never saw her because she practically lived at Heath's apartment. Due to Covid restrictions, the two enjoyed lots of outdoor dates, hikes, and takeout dinners early on while also spending lots of time together working on homework or studying. After Heath graduated college, the two moved in together which meant taking the leap and moving 2.5 hours away to Mahomet. Heath secured an engineering job with Ameren and six months later after Kaleigh finished all her virtual classes, she secured a pediatric nursing job with Carle. On December 30th, 2023, Heath popped the big question. Since they already lived together, Kaleigh knew their engagement was eminent, but Heath still managed to surprise her and make it very special by proposing with a ring pop! He had always joked this is what he was going to do so when he pulled out a ring-pop ring holder with her actual engagement ring inside, Kaleigh couldn't help but laugh and smile ear to ear. The two love their life together in Illinois and are very happy to have Heath's family close by now! And of course, who could forget Annie and Atlas, the two pups that keep Kaleigh and Heath on their joes while providing lots of joy. Kaleigh and Heath cannot wait to celebrate with you their wedding ceremony and reception this December! They are so grateful to be surrounded by amazing friends and family and cannot wait to see everyone.