Our story began halfway around the world — in an elevator in Beijing, China, where we were both part of a Penn State study abroad program. On one of the first days, Ben wore a Salty Dog Café shirt, sparking a conversation about our shared love for Hilton Head Island. We instantly connected over our favorite beach — and discovered we were both from Pittsburgh, too. After four unforgettable weeks exploring China together, we stayed close once we returned home and went on our first official date that summer. When we got back to Penn State for my sophomore year and Ben’s junior year, he officially asked me to be his girlfriend. Fast forward seven years to our anniversary — Ben asked me another important question… and I said yes!