It all began in June of 2020 at a little place called Enterprise Rent-A-Car. We were working at the same store—cue the secret crushes (because, of course, dating at work was strictly off-limits). But between cleaning cars and exchanging stolen glances, something was definitely sparking. As Kristen’s birthday approached, we casually chatted about taking a quick weekend getaway. That idea quickly escalated—as things tend to do with us—into a spontaneous trip clear across the country to surprise her sister, Katlyn. Kristen wasn’t sure if Ryan would be up for such a wild idea… but without hesitation, he was in. That’s when Kristen realized he was someone truly special—someone who could (almost) match her spontaneity. Just a month later, on the rooftop of Kristen’s apartment during the Fourth of July fireworks, we said “I love you” for the first time. From that moment on, everything just felt right. We soon moved into our first townhouse together and started building a life full of laughter, adventures, and just a little bit of chaos. Then came Marley. Kristen had her heart set on getting a dog, but with their hectic schedules, a puppy seemed impossible. Fate (and Katlyn) intervened when we found a 2-year-old Wheaten Terrier—only catch? She was in Portland, Maine. After minimal persuasion, Ryan was on board (again), and off we flew to Portland. We picked up Marley and drove 24 hours back home together, officially becoming a family of three. Fast forward to St. Patrick’s Day 2023: We closed on our first home! Life was full, busy, and beautiful… but Kristen had one more idea: puppy. She jumped on a wait-list (without Ryan’s knowledge), eventually confessed, and—after much discussion—convinced him to just “go see” the puppies. Ryan still said no. Kristen said yes. So naturally, they compromised… and got two. Enter Murphy and Maverick—our BOGO babies—bringing the chaos and love to a perfect family of five. When Ryan was ready to propose, he knew three things were non-negotiable: A) Kristen’s family had to be there, B) It had to be a complete surprise, and C) She could not be in workout clothes. And he nailed it. Two days before Christmas, at Kristen’s childhood home in Peachtree City, GA, surrounded by her entire family, Ryan asked her to marry him. She said yes, and here we are—grateful, giddy, and ready for forever.