Our story began long before we realized it. Michael and Ashley met in third grade, and even though life would take us on different paths, we always found our way back to each other. From the first day of school to high school hallways and beyond, we were always close—best friends, and, as we’d later discover, soulmates. Throughout middle school, high school (where we were even voted "Most Spirited" together), and college, we were inseparable. But it wasn’t until much later that we realized what we had was something more than just friendship. In September 2021, everything changed. Ashley was living in Chicago at the time, and when Michael decided to visit, it wasn’t just about going to a new city or attending a football game. It was about reconnecting, sharing new experiences, and realizing how much our bond had deepened. That weekend would prove to be a turning point for both of us. We started seeing each other in a new light, and on November 6, 2021—after an unforgettable Luke Combs concert—we officially became a couple. We may have started off as best friends, but soon we discovered that our relationship was built on something even more profound—shared passions, mutual respect, and a love for adventure. From attending concerts together (Luke Combs and Kip Moore are still our favorites) to cooking meals at home and exploring new cities, every moment felt like a new chapter in our lives. Whether it was Michael’s frequent visits to Chicago or the evenings spent in each other’s company, these moments laid the foundation for the life we were building together. In March 2022, Ashley moved back to Youngstown. Although we were both living in the same city, we weren’t yet sharing a home. But as we spent more and more time together, it became clear that we were ready to take the next step. The time spent together, with love and laughter, only made us more certain that living apart wasn’t the future we wanted. So, we took the leap and moved in together—starting a new chapter in our journey. In September 2022, we rented our first home together. It felt like a natural progression—creating a space where we could build a future. Then, in March 2024, we took another leap forward and bought our first house. It was in that home, surrounded by family and friends, that Michael surprised Ashley with the proposal of a lifetime on May 4, 2024. Ashley never saw it coming, and it was perfect. Now, as we stand on the threshold of forever, we can’t wait to continue this beautiful journey. From our third-grade friendship to our engagement, we’ve built a life full of love, laughter, and unforgettable adventures. We know that the best is yet to come, and we are beyond excited to spend the rest of our lives together, surrounded by the people who mean the most to us. Thank you for being part of our story. We’re so thrilled to share this next chapter with you! With love, Michael & Ashley