We first crossed paths during Freshman Orientation at the University of South Florida in 2018. After a chance encounter between our mothers, we were then introduced to each other. Remarkably, we not only found ourselves in the same orientation group but also had the same academic pursuits, as we were both enrolled in business degrees. To top it off, we even shared the same dormitory floor! Our connection deepened in the weeks that followed our initial meeting during orientation, leading to five years of a wonderful relationship!
On the five-year anniversary of our first date, Stephen planned a beautiful sunset beach picnic on Saint Andrews Beach on Jekyll Island, Georgia. After trekking to find the perfect secluded spot away from the other beachgoers, he pretended to want a picture on the beach. Before Riley knew it, Stephen was on one knee and Riley was saying "YES!". We're so excited to celebrate this next chapter in our lives with you. See you in Florida!