Rachael and Mark’s journey began in 2017 during their freshman year at John Carroll University. Though they met early on through a larger group of friends, life had them on different paths at first. Their friendship grew naturally through group dinners, library study sessions, and endless inside jokes. Over time, that friendship blossomed into something more. Mid-sophomore year, Mark’s quiet admiration for Rachael began to show - from a surprise wine night with cheese and crackers, to long talks under the stars on the JCU lawn chairs. Rachael quickly realized that the connection between them was undeniable. On January 14, 2019, Mark asked the simple question that changed everything: “We doin’ this?” Rachael said yes and they officially started dating. From then on, they built a relationship full of laughter, debates over Pittsburgh vs. Cleveland, and sweet routines with their closest friends. Even when the world shifted during Covid, their bond only deepened through Facetime dates and shared determination to make the most of every moment. After graduating side by side, their love continued to grow as they built a life together beyond campus. And on October 5, 2024, back at John Carroll where it all began, Mark got down on one knee and asked once more: “Are we doin’ this - forever?” With tears and joy, Rachael said yes, and their next chapter began.