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Michael John

Carlson

and

Shana Ruth

O'Byrne

June 6, 2026

Rocky Mount, VA

Love Story

It all began in 2015 at James Madison University, where Shana and Michael happened to live in the same dorm building. What started as friendship quickly grew into something more—by 2016, they were officially dating and falling in love. From long distance to a global pandemic, through career moves and life changes, their journey hasn’t always been easy. But with laughter, patience, and a shared sense of adventure, they made it through each chapter stronger than before. In 2022, they took a big step and moved into their first apartment in Arlington, Virginia, where they welcomed the sweetest new addition to their family—a golden retriever puppy named Sage, who instantly became their pride and joy (and the real boss of the household). In July 2024, Michael pulled off a grand proposal. Shana said yes and they celebrated with a romantic “engagement-moon” in Switzerland, a trip filled with breathtaking views and dreams of all that is to come. Now, they are counting down the days until June 6, 2026, when Shana and Michael will promise each other forever and begin the next beautiful chapter of their love story.

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