Jon and Kelly met through mutual friends at the end of their freshman year at NC State. Over the summer, Kelly couldn’t help but think about how funny and kind Jon was—but never imagined it would turn into anything more (honestly, she wasn’t even sure Jon had really noticed her!) When sophomore year rolled around, they started seeing each other more often in group settings. But it took a hurricane to really bring them together. In the fall of 2018, Hurricane Florence was heading straight for Raleigh, and with classes canceled, Jon (obviously) threw a party. Kelly’s crush officially kicked in—she found herself giggling at everything Jon said and trying to be close to him every chance she got. With a little help from a mutual friend, Jon got the hint. A few days later, he asked Kelly out to a movie (Yes, he leaned in for a kiss. Yes, Kelly panicked and pushed him away). But it all worked out—on October 24, Jon officially asked Kelly to be his girlfriend. They finished their time at NC State together—through a global pandemic and all—and entered a long-distance phase when Kelly started OT school. They made it work, even if goodbyes were never easy (especially for Kelly, who definitely shed more than a few tears). Eventually, the distance ended—Kelly graduated, passed her board exam, and the two moved to Charlotte, NC to finally start their life together. In April of 2024, they adopted their sweet dog, Bon Bon, and their little family felt complete. Well… almost. All Kelly needed was a ring. Fast forward to Christmas Day 2024—Jon surprised her with the most special gift of all: a diamond and a proposal!