Carter and Kari met in class their freshman year at Ohio University. Kari was the only person in class who laughed at Carter's jokes, which was a sign for him that they were meant to be. Shortly after this realization, Carter reached out to Kari, and they became friends very quickly. Later in October Carter's birthday arrived, Kari had asked him what he wanted for his birthday, and he replied, "for you to be my girlfriend" and Kari answered, "I think I can make that happen." Ohio University quickly became the place of many wonderful memories and where many friendships bloomed.

Carter had been secretly planning to propose to Kari before their senior year was over and when she said she wanted them to take graduation photos on the college green, he knew it was the perfect opportunity. With the help of his roommates Keanu McElroy and Griffin Braun, as well as some extra special help from Wade Randle, a friend and member of the Singing Men of Ohio's Section Eight, a plan was set in motion. At what first seemed like a coincidence, the Section Eight performed the song “I Want to Hold Your Hand” by The Beetles while Carter and Kari were getting photos. Then Carter got on his knee, and with perfect timing, Griffin threw him the ring. Carter casually asked Kari, “Do you want to get married?” and thus began their new chapter of their lives together.