It all started at River City Roll in Richmond, Virginia, during a dental school happy hour. Riley wasn’t expecting anything out of the ordinary, but her best friend, Anne Miller, had mentioned earlier, “There’s this guy, Jack Taylor. He’s cute, single, and he’ll be there tonight.” When Anne introduced them, the conversation felt effortless, the kind where you don’t notice how much time passes. After the event, Riley, Anne, and Anne’s fiancé, Ben, were heading to dinner. On a whim, Riley asked Jack if he wanted to join. He said yes. It was just a casual dinner, but something about it felt right. The very next day, Riley left for a month in Colorado. Even from a distance, they kept in touch, sharing casual conversations that quietly strengthened their connection. When she returned, they went on their first official date to Brambly Park. Looking back, it’s clear how God places people in our lives when we least expect it — at just the right moment, in just the right way, and how those unexpected connections can change everything for the better.

Not long after Jack graduated from dental school, both of our families planned a weekend trip to Seaside, Florida — one of his family’s favorite places. I thought we were just celebrating his graduation and taking family photos on the beach. Before pictures, Jack, my sister Claire, his sister Hannah, and I left early for a quick Publix run (which we actually did). I assumed everyone else would meet us later. On the walk back, Claire and Hannah said they’d forgotten something at the house, so Jack and I kept going — and that’s when he proposed. I was completely caught off guard in the best way. What I didn’t know was that a photographer had been following us, capturing the entire moment. It was such a special, joy-filled moment shared just between the two of us. When we got back to the house, it was beautifully decorated, and both of our families were there waiting to celebrate. We’re constantly reminded of how God blesses us with the most amazing people, the ones who change your life for the better. That night was the perfect example of that, and one we’ll never forget.