We're getting married!

Derek and Sam met the good old fashioned way: in person, at work in late 2021. Sam worked in HR while Derek worked as a forklift driver. Sam would work evenings in the plant, and Derek would spend a little too much time stopping in to ask unnecessary questions and spark some conversation. After Sam left that job, Derek just had to reach out and see how she was doing. One thing led to another and they were having their first official date in January 2023 where they immediately connected over their many common interests and family similarities. Spending nearly every day together since their first date, they continued to connect over numerous dinners, games of darts, and movie nights. They shared their first kiss in Sam's favorite bar, Mabel Murphy's, and it did not take long for them to realize they were exactly the other half they each had been in need of. Although things were going so well, Sam, being the incredibly independent and stubborn woman she is, was hesitant to be "locked in", and poor Derek had to wait three whole months before they would officially call each other boyfriend and girlfriend. They started their little family when Derek moved in with Sam in June of 2023. Quickly the boys (Jack and Marlow) became as fond of Derek as Sam was, and are now just as cuddly with "dad" as they are mom. They spend date nights planning their home improvements and dreaming of making their family bigger some day (with more dogs). September 15th, 2023, Derek popped the question at the top of the Eiffel Tower in one of their shared favorite places (and their first long distance vacation spot), Las Vegas. Derek wasn't even the slightest bit nervous, and Sam definitely was not surprised by the romantic gesture, nor did she dang near cry (this is sarcasm)! The couple is extremely excited to say their "I dos" and be able to share their special day with the many people that love them. They are especially grateful and appreciative of their families and wedding party that are dedicated to making this day special. A huge THANK YOU goes out to all of them, and all others that will be in attendance to celebrate and have a fun, memorable night!