Whitney and Michael grew up just four miles apart in the Twin Cities, but it took a few detours through Tennessee, North Dakota, Colorado, and New Mexico for their paths to finally cross. Upon returning to Minnesota in 2021, Whitney made some new friends - Amanda and John - who would often talk about their friend Mike from NDSU. Though she had heard much about him, it wasn’t until their housewarming party a few years later that Whitney finally got to meet this friend Mike (who had just returned to Minnesota himself the year before). When he sat down next to her at that party, Whitney’s very first words to him were, “I’ve heard so much about you!” Although more reserved in group settings, Michael quickly surprised her with lengthy texts that revealed their shared appreciation for travel, music, food, and humor. When Whitney mentioned her love of sushi, he was thrilled. “You don't know how excited I am that you love sushi too. I am taking you on a date and you can't say no 🙃 I have tickets to a sushi-making class in a few weeks and I would absolutely love it if you're available to join.” The highly anticipated first date was well worth the wait. The pair couldn’t wait to see each other again and have been inseparable ever since.