Samuel and Vanessa’s love story began at Coastal Carolina University, where their paths crossed for the first time in the student union rotunda. They were introduced by a mutual friend, and from that very first moment, there was an undeniable connection between them. It was one of those rare, magical moments where time seemed to stand still, and they both felt it—love at first sight. Their bond grew quickly, and one of their early adventures together highlighted Samuel’s deep passion for sneakers. Vanessa accompanied him to Plato’s Closet, where Samuel was selling a pair of his beloved sneakers. It was a small moment, but it spoke volumes about who they were: two individuals who could be completely themselves with each other, sharing simple joys that made their connection even stronger. As their relationship deepened, they began to experience the milestones that marked their journey together. When Vanessa decided to introduce Samuel to her parents, it was a pivotal moment in their love story. They both knew in that instant that this wasn’t just a fleeting romance. Samuel understood that he had found someone special—someone he could picture beside him for the rest of his life. And for Vanessa, bringing Samuel into her family’s world felt like a natural step toward forever. The two of them graduated from Coastal Carolina University, each stepping into new chapters of their lives. Although life took them in different locations, their love remained a constant thread between them. They stayed connected, no matter the distance, and the bond they shared only grew stronger with time. Eventually, Vanessa moved to Summerville, South Carolina, continuing their love journey. They built a life together in their new home, supporting each other through every challenge and celebrating every success. It was in this very home, on July 27, 2024, that Samuel knew it was time to take the next step in their story. Surrounded by family and friends, he proposed to Vanessa in a moment filled with love and emotion. Standing before those they held most dear, Samuel expressed his love for Vanessa in the most heartfelt way possible, knowing that this was the beginning of a lifetime together. Their journey, built on love, trust, and unwavering support, was far from over, but in that moment, they both knew they had found something rare and beautiful—something worth cherishing for all time.