Back in February 2012, Jacky and Sean finally met after months of texting and chatting online. Their first date began outside an Applebee’s, where Jacky spotted Sean leaning against the wall with his eyes closed, soaking up the winter sun. “I just got here and you're already falling asleep?” she joked. Sean laughed, and just like that, the date kicked off with banter and ended with hours of talking about country music, nature, and all the things they had in common. Over the years, life took them in different directions—but they never lost touch. They checked in often, encouraged one another, and always seemed to find their way back into each other's lives. Call it fate, timing, or something in between—there was always something there. Then, in early 2024, Sean decided to stop wondering “what if” and booked a spontaneous flight to New Jersey. That snowy weekend was filled with long conversations, beach walks, and laughter—and it quickly became clear that the connection they had all along was the real thing. Throughout the following months, they reconnected with each other's families, traveled back and forth between New Jersey and North Carolina, and started planning a future together. Jacky took a leap of faith—leaving behind the place and people she’d always known—to move south and start a new chapter with Sean. What she didn’t know was that Sean had a plan—and a ring—all along. With a small circle of people in the know, he waited for the perfect moment. Just days before Christmas, on a snowy morning, he suggested they take a walk through their favorite park with Riggs, his (and now her) beloved dog. As they strolled by the lake, Sean got down on one knee and popped the question. Jacky’s reaction? “Shut the eff up!” (followed by happy tears and an enthusiastic “yes!”) Now, after years of laughter, timing, and a love that always found its way back, they’re beyond excited to celebrate the next chapter—together—with all of you.