LUCAS Lowrise 7 was the worst draw you could get as a freshman at Cornell. No AC, forced triple setup, and the furthest walk from campus. But that’s where our story began. We met on one of the first nights of college. Crammed into our friend Gabby’s dorm full of freshmen while having some drinks, I saw a pretty girl at the far end of the room. I elbowed one of my new friends, “Who’s that?” I was nervous, trying to look cool with two red Solo cups in hand. I took my first swing, breaking the ice with a few unoriginal questions. Her name was “Sebby” which I thought was unique. She didn’t seem too engaged so our conversation didn’t go much further, but I was happy. She was down-to-earth, extremely cute, and had the sweetest laugh. It took time for things to develop. When she didn’t ask me to the Sailing Team Date Night, my hopes dropped. But small moments throughout our first semester built on each other. I’d see her through mutual friends Gabby and Cole; sometimes I'd get lucky and bump into her on campus so we could talk without the full entourage in tow. I felt something, but still needed a nudge. “Lucas, you’re so soft, just ask her out.” It was good encouragement from our friends. One night as we walked out of the library, I fought to hide my nerves. Keeping my voice low, I managed to mumble: ”Do you want to get dinner sometime?” “Sure, that’d be fun :)” My heart stopped racing, and I caught my breath- It was a YES! Our first date was special. We had a lot in common - appreciation for family, simple views on life, and the search for the right balance of hard work and fun. Things were early, but our connection felt different. SEBBY As a freshman, I quickly fell into step with the Cornell Sailing Team. Lucas shared a hall with my close friend and teammate, Gabby. It wasn’t long before I met Lucas at a pre-game in her dorm and first noticed his rowdy energy and enthusiastic spirit. He was funny and sweet, but it would take a while before our relationship truly sparked. I’d received a few not-so-subtle tips that he might be interested in me, but I was still surprised when he asked me to dinner at Saigon Kitchen. I was impressed by his easy confidence and endless list of questions. We had kicked off the start of a long, exciting journey! Fast forward through several summers at Chautauqua Lake and Martha's Vineyard, Christmas holidays, Passover celebrations, and family ski trips, I came to love Lucas’s big heart, kind soul, and sincere optimism. LUCAS I’ve known Sebby was the one for some time. Since our first date, I’ve grown to love her and am extremely grateful to have her in my life. She is one of a kind: contagiously warm, always herself, empathetic, and a lot more fun than me. We balance each other out and have built something special together. I decided to make it official last fall. Our trip to the Bills’ home game against the Chiefs was the perfect cover for the proposal. We’d return to Ithaca, where it all began. Ithaca was also driving distance for her family, so I had an excuse for them to come and be part of the surprise. SEBBY When Lucas mentioned a stop in Ithaca for a client visit ahead of the Bills/Chiefs game, I did not think twice. Visiting Upstate and Midwest cities to meet with customers was part of his normal work routine, and I knew he'd use any opportunity to make an impromptu visit to Cornell. What I did not expect was his strong encouragement for a sit-down brunch, prolonging our drive home. When we arrived at the Cornell Plantations, there was a mural of pictures, flowers and a sign: ‘Will you Marry Me?’ Speechless, I turned around to see Lucas down on one knee. I was even more shocked to see my family -Grandy & Aunt Aly included -emerge from behind the bushes, dressed in matching T-shirts printed with “she said YES!” I will remember this day forever. SEBBY & LUCAS We are so happy you can join us to celebrate our marriage at Chautauqua. We can't wait to see you!