Taryne and Tristan’s story began the modern way — with a message on Instagram in August 2020. Tristan was the first to reach out, not knowing that simple “heyy” would be the start of forever. After just a week of chatting, he asked if they could meet up for a coffee at Seattle. Their first date wasn’t filled with awkward pauses or small talk — the conversation flowed effortlessly, and they quickly realized how much they had in common. It felt easy. Natural. Like love at first sight. But love stories aren’t always simple. During the early days of getting to know each other, Taryne was going through a tough time with her mental health. What stood out was Tristan’s response — he quietly Googled “what to do if someone is having an anxiety or panic attack.” That quiet care and his willingness to understand meant everything to her. It was then that she knew: this was someone worth holding onto. Tristan tried (more than once!) to officially ask her out, but Taryne needed time. It wasn’t until a friend gently reminded her that love is always a risk worth taking that she made her decision. On 21 October 2020, she told Tristan she was ready — and in true Tristan fashion, he didn’t waste a second. He asked her to be his girlfriend right then and there. Since that day, they’ve faced ups and downs, as all couples do, but one thing has never changed: their commitment to each other. Then came the proposal — an elaborate plan, secretly set in motion by Tristan and Taryne’s mom and dad. A few months before popping the question, Tristan asked her parents for their blessing. Her dad, caught off guard, nearly choked on his words before saying, “Ja no, that is fine.” On 21 December 2024, what was meant to be a simple lunch and a quick stop to fetch “documents” from a colleague turned into a moment neither of them will ever forget. As they passed a romantic setup on the beach, Taryne jokingly asked, “Is that for me?” before brushing it off. But after a detour and some hangry frustration, they returned to that very spot. Tristan asked her to step out of the car, and as they walked toward the beach, it all started to click. She laughed in disbelief, asking him repeatedly, “Are you joking? Is this real?” And then, in the middle of laughter and shock, Tristan got down on one knee — and she said yes! What Tristan loves most about Taryne is her understanding nature. What Taryne adores most about Tristan is his endless care and attentiveness. Together, they balance each other perfectly — a team that keeps choosing each other, every day. Now, they’re getting married — and this is just the beginning.