Ryan and Lauren’s story began in the third grade when Twin Springs Elementary first opened its doors and they met in Mrs. Clayton’s class. From the very beginning, they shared a childhood crush — and years later discovered that their grandmothers had secretly hoped to play matchmaker all along. Though they grew up together through elementary, middle, and high school, life had its own timing, and the two never dated. After graduation, Ryan attended college at VCU in Richmond before moving to Oklahoma and Kansas to pursue his career. Lauren attended James Madison University and later settled in Richmond to begin her own career journey. Eventually, life brought them both back home to Danville, Virginia — and within just a few months, they went on their very first date. From that moment on, they’ve been inseparable. Today, they love sharing life together with their sweet kitty, Bubby Cat, and their puppy, Navy Jo. To celebrate their anniversary, Ryan and Lauren traveled to beautiful Fripp Island, South Carolina with Navy Jo. During their puppy’s very first walk on the beach, Ryan proposed at sunset — and Lauren, of course, said yes. They are incredibly grateful to celebrate this special chapter surrounded by the love of their family and friends, and they cannot wait to begin this next adventure together as husband and wife. Thank you for being part of their story and helping make their wedding day so meaningful!