Lauren moved to Kennett Square in February of 2023 and soon picked up a second job bartending at Liberty Place Pub, hoping it would help her connect with the community. Located in "The Market,” a lively food hall known for its family-friendly vibe and weekly entertainment, the pub was the perfect spot to meet people. Clayton was one of The Market’s many regulars, meeting up with friends for dinner before heading to a local church for their weekly board game nights. When Clayton and his friends got together on Monday nights, he immediately noticed the new bartender and quickly took an interest in her. He thought of how he might introduce himself, going up to the bar and cleverly requesting a "water on the rocks,” but he never followed through on this plan. Instead, he kept his crush to himself for several months. One evening, Clayton’s friend Eric informed the other group members that he had invited the new bartender to game night, completely oblivious to Clay’s secret. It was only then that Clayton confessed his interest in “the cute bartender with the glasses” to all of his friends. Lauren eventually made it out to some game nights and couldn’t help but notice the tall, handsome guy who always sat at the head of the table. She liked his sense of humor, and admittedly, also liked how he always seemed eager to strike up a conversation with her. As Lauren began attending more regularly, she and Clayton bonded over their cats, obscure pop culture references, and their love of fantasy games. After months of getting to know each other, Clayton finally mustered up the courage to confess his feelings and asked Lauren on a proper date. Lauren was overjoyed, and impressed by Clayton’s intentionality. It was an easy yes from her, and the very next day, the two met for dinner at Portobello’s on State Street. It only took one more date for Clayton to officially ask Lauren to be his girlfriend, and a little over one year for him to ask her to be his wife. Clayton proposed on April 16th by the water at Old Key West Resort in Disney World, following an evening dining at The Contemporary and watching the Magic Kingdom fireworks. Once again, for Lauren, the answer was an easy, enthusiastic, confident yes. Over the past year and a half, their relationship has deepened through laughter, shared interests, and most importantly, their Christian faith. They believe in a good and loving God who sent His Son, Jesus, to bridge the gap that sin created. Jesus lived a perfect life, took on the punishment they deserved, and rose again so they—and all who believe—can live in restored relationship with God. For Clayton and Lauren, this isn’t just a belief, but the foundation of their lives and their relationship. As they prepare to marry, they are committed to loving and serving one another with humility, gentleness, patience, and compassion—just as Jesus has loved them. Clayton and Lauren truly are each other’s best friends, biggest supporters, and favorite company, and they cannot wait to celebrate their love with all of you on December 19th.