Our story starts thanks to Brian’s sister Caroline, who took a photo of him with his faithful companion, Roscoe. This snapshot was the reason Lauren decided to “super like” him on a dating app. Undoubtably she was more interested in meeting his handsome canine, however, she was excited to give him a chance. They had their first date a few days later, meeting up to walk around Winston-Salem. Despite having a wakeboarding-induced injury just days before, Brian gladly agreed to the date. Worried Lauren would think he was debilitated, Brian masked his pain with unwavering smiles and endured walking a full block before he finally asked if they could sit. They spent the rest of the evening getting to know each other realizing they had undeniable chemistry. On their second date, Brian invited Lauren to his home in Burlington, which if you’ve seen, has been a slight “work in progress” over the past year. Despite the half-finished living room and OSB sub flooring, Lauren was impressed by the house’s potential, and the skilled remodeling Brian had already completed. It did not take long before the two were inseparable, both realizing their lives were much better with each other. Thankfully, Lauren’s dogs, Maggie and Porkchop, also discovered how amazing their new life was with Brian. Maggie enjoyed having a personal chef, making her bacon on the weekends and Porkchop gladly accepted his role of backyard squirrel patrol. Over the next few months, they helped each other grow. Brian encouraged Lauren to keep studying for her medical oncology board exam. He helped quiz her stumbling over words that are impossible words to pronounce like “oligodendroglioma” and “trastuzumab deruxtecan.” After Lauren passed her exam, she was happy to repay the favor helping with DIY projects around the house, putting up dry wall, making new shelves and furniture, and keeping the yard tidy learning to ride a zero-turn mower. Both families were overjoyed to see their happiness. It was clear, this relationship brought out the best in each other and was full of love and support. After asking Lauren’s parents for her hand in marriage, Brian popped the question on a recent trip to San Diego. Brian planned an incredible two-day adventure - exploring state parks, watching sea lions sunbathe, and taking in breathtaking views of the ocean. He finally asked her to marry him on the side of a secluded cliff while the sun melted into the ocean. (We were thankful some strangers decided to capture the special moment and send us the pictures!) We couldn’t be happier to share our story with you and begin the next chapter of the rest of our lives.