The best relationships start as friendships — and ours is no exception. We met at St. Edward's University through mutual friends and quickly became pros at themed parties, late-night hangs, and inside jokes. After a few years of friendship (and maybe a little secret crush action), we both started to realize something was brewing. In the summer of 2015, while Monica was studying abroad in Argentina, long phone calls turned flirty — and Monica knew it was only a matter of time. Sure enough, when school started back up, Michael made a bold move and invited her to the State Fair of Texas (which, if you know, you know — this is a big deal!). The rest, as they say, is history. Since then, life has been a beautiful adventure: traveling to Guatemala, Michael visiting Monica while she lived in Oaxaca, Mexico, countless hiking and camping trips, and most recently, a dreamy engagement in Lake Como, Italy. None of this would be possible without our amazing family and friends. Big love to our Hilltopper crew — we’ve felt your support from day one. And to the Murad and Guajardo families, thank you for welcoming us both with open arms — we can’t wait to make it official! If you’re reading this, you’re a huge part of our story. And we can’t wait to raise a glass, dance it out, and throw the biggest party of the year with you! Cheers to love, laughter, and all the memories to come!