We started dating in February 2016 when Cole was a senior and McKenzie was a junior at neighboring schools in Columbus, Ohio. It is incredibly special to us that we’ve experienced so many life milestones together. From our high school graduations to our college graduations, Cole’s first job out of school leading him to Wichita and Dallas, and McKenzie becoming a Radio City Rockette, each step has been an adventure we’ve cherished. From the beginning, we felt a unique connection that has only deepened over time. Supporting each other’s aspirations from a distance came with its challenges, but we always found strength in our commitment, our shared vision for the future, and the unwavering support from our friends and family. In May 2022, after five and a half years of long distance, McKenzie joined Cole in Dallas, TX. Finally living in the same city brought us even closer and strengthened our bond. A little over a year later, Cole proposed in Columbus on August 4th, 2023, just a few weeks before we moved into our NYC apartment. We are incredibly grateful to our family and friends who have been part of our journey over the past nine years. Join us as we celebrate the chapters that brought us here and the beginning of our life together as Mr. & Mrs. Popelas. Thank you for being a part of our story!