It was a beautiful, sunny August day in 2017. Nick and I had arrived at the University of Michigan as part of the M-LEAD program, just wanting a few extra days on campus before classes began. My first memory of Nick is from our group introductions. When it was his turn, he told the group he was an economics major—and I thought to myself, “nerd.” For those who don’t know me very well yet, it was ironic coming from me. During those first few days, we immediately clicked. Our friendship began then and deepened over the next four years. We experienced all the ups and downs of college life—from interviews and hangovers to roommates and heartbreak. Oh, and we ate a LOT of ice cream together! As our college adventures were winding down, we decided to take on the world as adults together. In 2022, we moved to Seattle and spent two and a half wonderful years exploring the misty Pacific Northwest and experiencing firsts together. We adopted two sweet kitties, took our first trips together, and discovered the BEST strawberry lemonade in the world! Our Sundays were usually spent cleaning our apartment, then playing cards while sipping coffee at a local café. In 2024, we moved back to Michigan and purchased our first home. Amidst new fixer-upper projects, we added two puppies to the mix. We still love playing cards (and have the scorebook to prove it!), and beach sunsets remain our favorite! One Friday evening this past fall, we decided to catch the sunset at Tunnel Park, our favorite local beach. We bolted out the door and arrived just in time. The clouds were glowing, and the breeze coming off the lake felt perfect—it was the most stunning sunset we’d seen in months. It was a gorgeous evening, still warm for late October. We wandered up and down the beach, soaking it all in. As the light began to fade, we thought it was time to leave—but the moment was too beautiful to go. We lingered a little longer, letting the sand squish between our toes. Nick pulled me in for a hug, held me close, and looked at me in the most adoring way. Then he asked, “Will you marry me?” Being the sassy gal that I am, I responded, “Shouldn’t you be down on one knee?” (Thank God he puts up with me!) He knelt down in front of me, pulled out a ring, and said, “Marissa Latchaw, will you marry me?” And the rest is history! We plan to have a private ceremony in the Olympic National Park, among the gray skies and mountains where we first made a home together. We are SO EXCITED to celebrate our commitment to each other with you at our reception! See you soon! :)