Like many couples today, online dating is where our story began. Lauren and Josh opted for a lower maintenance option that other friends had had success with, Facebook Dating. Lauren was resolved to go on one date and then call it a day for online dating. The weekend of April 26, 2025, there was an exam to take and a date sounded like a good idea to break up the cycle of studying for Lauren. The two planned a coffee date meeting in the middle, the Java House in Broad Ripple. Josh lived downtown in the circle and Lauren lived in Carmel. Josh arrived early, grabbed a table and was startled to see an old spiritual mentor sitting in the cafe. Lauren arrived soon after. How well the date went surprised them both. They bonded over a similar upbringing and shared love of metal music. In the months that followed, Josh pursued Lauren with intentionality and clarity, planning thoughtful dates like a trip to Oliver Winery and gifting her a Sleep Token bag for her birthday. In September, Josh moved to Broad Ripple, into the apartment right above the Java House where they met, allowing them to spend more time together. In October, they planned a trip to Washington that was packed with hiking and driving. Spending so much time together and overcoming some serious travel setbacks gave them confidence they should be together. Josh proposed on a Sunday, March 8, 2026. He planned a sunset picnic in Morse Park right on the reservoir, the same park as our reception venue. Lauren may have had an inkling that the proposal was coming but it was very a special and intimate moment. The two enjoyed the rest of the evening staring out at the water and excitedly discussing plans for the future. We thank God for bringing us together and can't wait to celebrate with you all soon!