We're Getting Married!

It all began in the fall of 2022 at the Albertville Outlet Mall. Sam was working as the assistant manager of a luxury retail store, totally focused on her job and completely unaware that someone had taken a special interest in her. That someone was Ken, the director of mall security, who had a habit of stopping by her store more often than necessary. While Sam thought Ken was just being friendly and professional, he was actually making excuses to see her — though he played it cool (well coolish). The universe decided it needed a little help, so it sent in Mike — our now-officiant and then-Sam's boss — who picked up on the quiet spark between us. Mike took matters into his own hands, encouraging both of us, separately, to take a chance. Eventually, we did. And that one small chance turned into the best decision of our lives.

It was a moment Sam never saw coming — and on her birthday, no less! The plan was simple: a fun dinner out to celebrate. Sam was getting ready while Roo, their mischievous orange tabby, decided it was the perfect time for full-on zoomies, racing around the apartment like a tiny hurricane. Chaos, as usual. As Sam walked back into the kitchen, she found Ken standing there — calm, steady, and holding a ring box. Ken smiled and asked, “Will you marry me?” Completely caught off guard, Sam’s first words were, “Are you kidding me?” — equal parts shock, disbelief, and joy. With happy tears, laughter, and one very enthusiastic yes, the moment turned unforgettable. To wrap up the perfect night, they headed to The Cheesecake Factory — a favorite — and celebrated the start of their next chapter over comfort food, cheesecake, and a whole lot of giddy smiles.

For now we call Maple Grove, MN home, where we share our life (and the couch) with our sassy, queen-of-the-house orange tabby, Roo. She runs a tight ship, but we wouldn’t have it any other way! Sam works as an insurance agent with Insurance Brokers of MN in Blaine, helping clients protect what matters most. Ken works as a corrections officer at the juvenile detention center in Minneapolis, where he’s dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of the youth he works with. When we’re not at work, you can almost always find us watching movies—seriously, a lot of movies. Whether we’re catching the latest release in theaters or snuggled up at home with Roo, we’re happiest with popcorn in hand. We also love going out for live comedy (Acme in Minneapolis is a favorite!), watching and attending MMA fight nights, traveling to new places, and having game nights at home. We’re both a little competitive, so classics like cribbage and Scrabble are some of our favorites! At the end of the day, we’re all about laughter, good stories, a little friendly competition, and spending time together—and we can’t wait to celebrate the next chapter with all of you!