While we officially met at an acquaintance's birthday party in February 2024, our story really begins a few months later, when we met again through our local church. Braden was one of the leaders for the young adult Sabbath School (SS) class. Rachel, who recently transferred to the church, was soon asked to join the SS leadership as well. This began their friendship as they worked together on various SS projects and interacted at young adult events. Braden took Rachel out on their first date on May 31, 2024, enjoying a meal at Tony's Italian restaurant, a walk on the iconic Chattanooga walking bridge, and ending the evening with Clumpies Ice Cream. However, while Braden knew right away that she was the "one," Rachel needed more time and told him that she saw them as simply "great friends." With no other option, Braden spent the next 4 months becoming Rachel's "greatest" friend, until he became her best friend! In October, Braden tried again; this time, Rachel was ready and waiting and said yes to being his girlfriend. The rest is history. We have enjoyed spending time together, traveling, bonding with our new extended families, and doing ministry together. On July 6, 2025, exactly nine months after they started dating, Braden asked Rachel to marry him on the Cavendish Cliffs in Prince Edward Island, Canada. As the sun peaked over the Atlantic Ocean, with a beautiful lighthouse silhouetted behind us, Rachel said, "Yes!". The lighthouse standing behind us was symbolic of our love, which would always be a beacon and guide us home.