Lauren and Will first met in their 8th grade science class at Pleasant Valley Junior High in 2015. Will made the first move in true teenage fashion, by stepping on the back of Lauren’s shoe in an attempt to get her attention. His persistence didn’t stop there; through countless pranks and endless efforts to make her laugh, he quickly became impossible to ignore. Lauren was soon won over by his playful charm and those sweet brown eyes. On May 30th, 2015, the two officially became a couple. Through high school, Lauren and Will were inseparable. Sharing four homecomings, two proms, and one winter dance. Wherever one was, the other was never far behind. Their bond only grew stronger with each passing year. The couple then went on to pursue college educations. Will attended the University of Iowa’s College of Engineering, and Lauren to Mount Mercy University’s College of Nursing. Despite busy schedules, they made time for weekend visits, late-night calls, and many date nights. Their love only grew stronger as they matured into young adults. Following Lauren’s college graduation, the two took a leap of faith and moved in together making a new home in Minnesota. Will stood by Lauren through her challenging first year as a nurse (no easy task!) while he began his own post-grad journey. When a new engineering opportunity arose back in their home state, they returned to Iowa in October of 2024, excited to begin their next chapter closer to family and friends. Today, Lauren and Will live together in Iowa City and continue to cheer each other on in their early careers. Lauren is pursuing her doctorate degree and working part time as a nurse while Will is thriving as an electrophysiology mapping specialist. Their engagement had been a long time coming and something they both knew was an important next step in their lives together as partners. In the winter of 2024, they went ring shopping together, and Will paid careful attention to every sparkle that caught Lauren’s eye. With the perfect ring in hand, he waited for the right moment. On May 3rd, 2025, after a day spent with friends and a peaceful walk along the Mississippi River, Will asked Lauren to be his forever. Now, surrounded by the people they love most, Lauren and Will can’t wait to celebrate the next chapter of their story. One that began with teenage playfulness, has grown into a lifetime of laughter, love, and adventure.