We were both 16 years old, entering the second semester of our junior year and when we happened to be seated at the same table in the far-left corner of the back of our Algebra class. What we didn’t know then was that this small coincidence would mark the beginning of a life and journey that we can no longer imagine living without. Loralei's~ I’d like to start at the beginning when I talk about us because there was one thing Chad didn’t know until our third anniversary: I actually had a major crush on him before I ever walked into that math class. If you ask him, though, he’ll tell you I only noticed him on that first day. I’d like to say I did a great job playing hard to get, but apparently not! I’ve never met someone as rare as Chad. Beyond being incredibly handsome, he’s the funniest, kindest, and easiest person to love. Through countless summers, finishing high school together, and every season in between, he has become my best friend. Most importantly, the way Christ has taken hold of our relationship and worked through both of us has filled my heart in ways I could never fully explain. I don’t remember much of life before Chad, and neither of us ever wants to imagine it any other way. Every day, I discover new things to love about him, and every day, he teaches me new things to love about myself. This long-awaited journey has led us to yet another beautiful chapter, one that I am beyond excited to begin. We would not be where we are today without Jesus, and I cannot wait to stand before Him, enter into a covenant relationship with Chad, and begin the rest of our lives as husband and wife. Chad's~ The beginning of our story started in a place neither of us expected— from the very beginning, there was something special about Loralei that caught my attention. I remember looking forward to class every day because it meant getting to spend time with her. What started as simple conversations quickly became something I cherished. Before long, I found myself walking with her between classes whenever I could, always looking for another excuse to spend a few extra minutes together. Not long after, we had our first real date at Brusters. It was a simple day, but it’s one I’ll never forget. From that moment on, our relationship continued to grow, and so did my admiration for her. Over the years, I’ve come to know Loralei not only as the beautiful girl I met in math class, but as my best friend, my greatest supporter, and the person who makes every day better. Her kindness, faith, joy, and love have shaped my life in countless ways. Looking back, it’s amazing to think that one seating chart could change the course of my life. What began in a high school classroom has grown into a love story far greater than I ever imagined. I am incredibly grateful for every memory we have shared, every challenge we’ve overcome, and every moment that has led us here. I am even more grateful for her love of the Lord and the way that has shaped me as a man in order to be a good leader for her and our future family. Most importantly, I am thankful for the way God has guided our relationship and remained at the center of it all. I cannot wait to begin this next chapter together, to continue growing in faith and love, and to spend the rest of my life with my absolute best friend, soon to be wife. - To our family and friends, thank you for the love, support, and countless memories you have shared with us throughout our lives. We are so grateful to celebrate this special day surrounded by the people who mean the most to us, and your presence is truly the greatest gift.