We're Getting Married

Jillian and Steve may have crossed paths a few times during their years in high school, but did not start getting to know each other until they found out that they planned to attend the same college, Stockton University, in 2012. Jill and Steve talked on and off following graduation and while at Stockton. However, Steve ultimately decided to transfer schools during their first semester, and Jill remained at Stockton. Managing the distance was tough at first, but Jill and Steve decided to start the new year on a good note! They had finally decided to become an 'official' couple on New Years Day of 2013! Throughout college, Steve and Jill were fortunate enough to be able to see each other on most weekends. They were dedicated to supporting each other in their academic and professional endeavors, from undergraduate to graduate school, to ultimately starting their careers as a teacher and an occupational therapist. Steve and Jill are different in many ways, but it is in those differences that they found love!

On February 15, 2020, on a mountain in 20 degree weather, Steve finally got down on one knee and proposed! The idea for the proposal stemmed from Steve suggesting that they gift hiking boots to each other for Valentine's Day. Jill agreed, and was excited to go on more hikes this year. Steve then suggested that they go on a hike the day after Valentine's Day to break in the new boots. The next day, Steve presented Jill with a printout of the specific hiking trails with color-coded labels, and Jill was impressed at his apparent dedication to this hike. Jill was weary about going on a hike in such cold weather (the high was 30 degrees for that day), but Steve insisted that it would be a good hike no matter what! On February 15, Jill reluctantly agreed to go on the hike, and they climbed the trail and up to the mountaintop. The top of the mountain was quiet and serene, and the weather had warmed up a bit. As Jill was admiring the view, Steve called Jill's name, and Jill found Steve on one knee. Neither Jill nor Steve remembers what was said during the proposal, but Jill said yes! They later came home to see that close family and friends had planned a surprise engagement party, and it was certainly a day to remember!