Lauren and Patrick first met at a house party thanks to two of their closest friends, Lewis and Taylor – but it took a few more years (and a few more parties) before their love story really began. Back in 2018, Taylor and Lauren were Miller Lite-drinking roommates in Poncey-Highlands, where they walked the Beltline and hosted porch movie nights. That summer, Taylor met Lewis and fell in love – which, happily, brought Patrick into Lauren’s life. Just like Taylor and Lauren were best friends, Patrick and Lewis were also a bonded duo. They connected over statistics at UGA where, when they weren’t running numbers, they obsessed over their shared love of baseball, football, hockey, basketball… (you get the idea). In 2018 Lewis invited Patrick to a big house party, which just happened to be Lauren’s 29th birthday celebration. Patrick came prepared: cooler full of beer and camping chairs for extra seating (very thoughtful). Lauren probably drank a couple of his beers, maybe sat in a camping chair, but somehow never really talked to Patrick that day. He did, however, make quite a charming first impression on one of the Gordon girls... Lauren's mom. After chatting about Dungeons & Dragons and noticing his mountain man looks, Susan was convinced: Patrick was perfect for her oldest daughter. Even Lewis knew Lauren and Patrick could really be a thing, but these two soon-to-be lovebirds just couldn’t get it together and date! Lauren and Patrick chatted a few more times at porch parties over the next couple of years - including a very memorable, one-on-one, intensely romantic conversation where Patrick explained (in great, but helpful detail) which cars Lauren should consider for her next ride. Lauren always thought Patrick was so easy to talk to (and, let’s be honest, damn hot), but they never really crossed the flirting line. Then, on July 4, 2022, Patrick and Lauren reunited at another ATL house party hosted by Taylor and Lewis (now married). After a few snacks, some drinks, and a group viewing of the national hot dog eating contest, they finally started really talking… and haven't stopped. They talked for hours that day (about what - who knows), and Lauren remembers looking up into Patrick’s blue-gray eyes and just swooning. She asked if he wanted her number (he did because… obviously…), and they had their first date the very next day. Since then, they’ve been inseparable and Lauren and Patrick have been building a full and joyful life together alongside their three beloved dogs (Annabelle, Chubb, and Baxter). Whether it’s a weekend at the beach, a Star Wars marathon, a smoked pork butt on the back deck, or cheering on the Georgia Bulldogs (and, now, the Eagles and Phillies), life with these two is so good. Through job changes, house projects (thanks Patrick), and everything in between, they’ve found in each other not just love, but a real partnership. Now they can’t wait to celebrate the next chapter with all of you!