As millennials, we grew up watching classic love stories like 50 First Dates, Pam and Jim from The Office, Love Actually, Bridget Jones’ Diary, and all of the Disney classics. They set our expectations of what love was supposed to look, feel and sound like. Guy and girl meet, they have quirky friends to support them through the journey, they fall in love, and live happily ever after. When we met, it was through modern technology (Hinge) and we decided that we would “skip the small talk” and head straight to a 4-hour long date. Date #2 was on Fat Tuesday, at a bar where live music was promised. Turns out, the music was performed by retired teachers, and we couldn’t hear a single word the other one said because it was so loud in there. Graham still has the beads from that date hanging in his car 4.5 years later. Fast forward, and our first year was described as “joy.” We went camping, explored Arizona, went to Spring Training games, and got to fall in love effortlessly. Meeting each other’s families was a fun adventure all in itself. Our families knew how happy we made each other, and thankfully we fit into their chaos and love-filled homes. Year two brought a lot of change, we went through buying a home, moving in, grief, sickness, and many, many more things. Unlike the movies, life is unpredictable-there isn’t always that silly interlude that makes you smile. However, year 2 brought us more than we could have ever imagined and ultimately drew us together to be strong, patient and understanding partners for one another. Year three brought settling into our home, taking our first cruise, hosting family and friends for parties, anniversaries, and holidays. We overcame so much in our first three years together, and it was clear that our movie was just as good as the classics. In 2025, Graham proposed and had been planning the day for quite awhile. He bought the ring with his Mom and Brother, and asked Kate’s mom for her blessing when he went to Winslow AZ with her. The placemat from the restaurant where he asked Kate’s mom is proudly displayed in our home. Being fiances is a very surreal feeling. Having the promise of forever (however long that may be) with your best friend, is a feeling of taking a deep breath. We can’t wait to celebrate our love with all of you, and wouldn’t be here without our friends and family supporting our relationship, and carrying us through the hard times that life throws our way. Unlike the movies, our wedding ceremony isn’t even close to the finale. It is the hallmark of a new chapter where we become one, and create our own beautiful next scene.