Seth and Emma's story begins in Pittsburgh, PA, where Emma, having already crossed paths with Seth's brothers Isaac and Noah, eagerly embraced the opportunity to expand her circle by welcoming the newest Pepmeyer. As months went by, Seth and Emma found themselves bonding over shared adventures within their lively friend group- from bible studies to bonfires, afternoons spent hammocking in Schenley Park, and even a trip to North Carolina. It wasn't until after their return, among countless strolls through Schenley Park, that Seth mustered the courage to say: "Well, Miss Naegler, I think it's about time I took you on a proper date."
Fast forward to May 14th... our "proper date". Seth and Emma took on a botanical adventure at Phipps Conservatory. Then, they ventured to Schenley Park, where they had a quaint and cozy picnic. The pièce de résistance? Stuffing their faces with the cheesiest pizza known to mankind (those who've had Mineo's will understand). As the sun began to set and they engaged in heartfelt conversations, they knew that this was the start of something special.
No, not the Scotty McCreery song... although that's one of Seth's favorites. After that first date, life threw Seth and Emma a curveball as Emma had to relocate to Rochester for her OT clinicals. So began a year-long odyssey of long-distance dating. With each visit—whether to Pittsburgh or Rochester—they cherished every moment. When Emma returned to the 'burgh, all felt right again and they filled their time with some of the most memorable adventures (epic highland cow tours, sandy vacations at Lewes beach, and camping with the Naegler clan, just to name a few). Through it all, Seth and Emma's relationship endured, proving that with a sprinkle of adventure and a whole lot of love, three years of dating can come and go in a flash.
Let's set the scene: Emma and Seth are getting ready to celebrate their three year anniversary, where Seth is planning to re-create their first date. Despite battling a pesky cold and gnarly allergies, Seth is determined to make this anniversary one for the books. As they ventured into Schenley park with a box of Mineo's pizza, they settle into their favorite picnic spot. Emma is blissfully unaware of the covert operation underway. Seth had enlisted his trusty sister-in-laws, Joni and Bridgette, to play paparazzi from the shadows. Emma, the ever observant one, remains clueless as she stuffs her face with food. Then, after exchanging some heartfelt honorings, Seth suddenly needs to take his allergy medication. Instead of a pill however, he reveals an engagement ring and asks Emma the big question. 'Twas a picture-perfect night, marking not just three years of love, but the beginning of a lifetime. Next stop? The wedding aisle. Whoop whoop!