Joe and Makayla first saw each other at a church retreat during their first year of college at CSB/SJU. A few months later, when Joe spotted Makayla at a Super Bowl party, he sparked up a conversation and they exchanged phone numbers. They started getting to know each other but, sadly, COVID had other plans. They were suddenly packing up to return to their respective homes....Joe to Hibbing, and Makayla to Lakeville :( HOWEVER, Joe and Makayla persevered and found a time for their first official date in June, 2020 when Joe came to the cities for his cousin's grad party (shoutout Katie Bastiaens!!!). Makayla & Joe climbed to the top of Buck Hill for sunset views and deep convos. Even though their houses were many miles apart, they were very fortunate to have Makayla’s family cabin near Duluth as an easy place to meet. This is where their second date took place and many more followed! It was now sophomore year of college and Makayla & Joe were officially a “thing”. They enjoyed lots of library, church, and walk dates. On October 6th of 2020, Joe officially asked Makayla to be his girlfriend. Joe & Makayla were now two peas in a pod and helped each other live out the remainder of college to the fullest. Joe & Makayla graduated together in 2023 and started their next chapters - Makayla began her nursing career and Joe began his 10 months of missionary work In Montserrat, Spain. Being long distance for 10 months wasn't easy, but the phrase “distance makes the heart grow fonder” really proved true. Joe was even fortunate enough to receive a special visitor in February 2024! Finally, in June of 2024, Joe returned home for good. Their journey of long distance was finally over as Joe moved to the cities to begin his accounting career. Their typical dates included a mix of pickle ball, ice cream, and cooking together. The big day happened on April 5, 2025, when Joe invited Makayla on a trip to their alma mater for good times sake. On a walk out to the same place they “officially started dating”, Joe dropped to one knee and asked Makayla if she would marry him. We are so excited to begin married life and celebrate with all of you on December 27, 2025!!!