Sami and Shelsey met at CBU during a LinkedIn seminar (of all things)! They began spending time together in groups - game nights, study sessions, and even a road trip to Portland. Sami was then offered an internship in San Clemente. Just friends, Sami moved into Shelsey's childhood home with her and her family for the summer. They quickly became close friends exploring new cities, restaurants, and coffee shops. Late night talks led to holding hands during a Harry Potter movie marathon and an unspoken feeling that they were both on the same page. The day Sami moved out, he asked Shelsey to be his girlfriend. Now, they love to tell their story and joke about how they lived together before they even dated!

Sami and Shelsey's first official date was a picnic in Laguna Beach over 4 years ago. On July 29th, 2023 Sami recreated their first date, but this time with a special activity. He created a couples' question game where they answered silly questions, told each other what they loved most about the other, and reflected on their relationship. Emotions were running high by the time they got to the last card which Shelsey read, "You can ask me any question you want, but we have to stand up." That's when Sami pulled a ring out of the picnic basket and bent down on one knee. Shelsey said "YES!" Not only did Sami plan the perfect proposal, but also two surprises: 1) Both of their families were waiting at the top of the beach to congratulate them and 2) A surprise party that night with many close friends and family.