We first crossed paths on a scorching summer day at a hookah bar in Charleston, SC, when we were both 18. Quintin approached Stef, who was hosting at the restaurant, and convinced her to take his number and go on a date. That brief summer romance felt like something straight out of a Nicholas Sparks novel—fun, carefree, and filled with endless adventure. After a few blissful months, Stef moved to finish her undergrad, while Quintin pursued his Navy training and traveled the world on deployment. Though life took us in different directions, we remained close friends, staying in touch over the years. In January 2020, we reconnected, as if no time had passed. Together, we navigated long-distance, COVID, college graduations, and everything life in the Navy threw our way. In December 2021, we made the move from Virginia to Oregon to be closer to Quintin’s family, and it’s been a journey of growth, love, and countless adventures ever since. We can’t wait to have everyone together to celebrate this special day with us—thank you for being part of our story. <3