We met as seniors in high school at a preview day for PLNU. Both of us almost didn't make it but last-minute decided to attend the day of tours, information sessions, & activities for incoming college freshmen. A mutual acquaintance introduced the two of us over lunch that afternoon. We spent the rest of the day together walking the cliffs & excitedly anticipating the next big chapter of our lives!

Hardly even a week into college we went to a Padres game together! We shared hotdogs & talked so much that we hardly even watched the game. Now, 5 years later, it is one of our favorite dates to do together-- & we have gone to a game every year on this date since!

Knowing that Makayla was a very snoopy & hard-to-surprise person, Elijah had to get really creative with this one. He asked her on a surprise date to celebrate her upcoming birthday. Borrowing a dear friend's boat, he drove her around Newport Harbor with charcuterie, wine, & music. When Makayla opened her birthday gift, she found a beautiful wooden wine box with an engraving that said "The Firey's est. 2024" Inside, it held a handwritten letter tied up with twine. Elijah got on one knee to read her the heartfelt letter & ask her to marry him! After screaming yes about 20 times they continued their harbor cruise only to pull up to a dock with their immediate families standing on it cheering with streamers & balloons. It was the best & most special surprise!