For those who don’t know, we first met while teaching English in Japan through the JET Program, where we both lived for three years. One winter night, we happened to be riding in the same train car on the last train of the evening and got off at the same stop—Gunma-Yawata Station. As soon as we stepped off the train, we struck up a conversation and quickly discovered that we were both English teachers working at schools right next to each other. Looking back, we often joke that it had to be fate—especially considering that both of our families are from Ohio. From that night on, we kept running into each other around town, at festivals, and through mutual friends. Before we officially started dating, we really got to know each other at a small yakitori bar near the train station where we met. Over time, we shared so many incredible experiences in Japan—even teaching at the same elementary school at one point. From backpacking across Southeast Asia to exploring all over Japan, and eventually moving back across the world together to South Carolina, we’ve already shared so many unforgettable adventures—and we can’t wait to begin this next chapter of our life together.

On January 20th, Andrew and I were on vacation in Savannah, Ga. We had a wonderful day going to cafes, art museums, and eating a delicious dinner. After dinner, Andrew got down on one knee in one of Savannah's beautiful park squares and proposed. Within about 24 hours we decided to set the date and get married this year! We are so excited to take the next step together with all of our friends and family by our side to celebrate with us.