It all started at Texas State University in the summer of 2016. Laura was a student leader for Bobcat Build, and Amanda had just started as the Graduate Assistant (Eat ’em up, Cats!). They crossed paths here and there—Laura may or may not have believed she knew more about Bobcat Build than Amanda (jury’s still out)—but it wasn’t until Laura’s senior year that something shifted. They started spending more time together, becoming fast friends and, eventually, something more. The flirting was subtle—so subtle that Amanda didn’t even realize it was happening. Then came the walk. In March of 2019, Laura invited Amanda on a hike through Purgatory Creek. Amanda brought her dog, Ellen. Laura brought dry cereal and coffee (we love a plan and preparation!). They wandered, got completely lost, and ended up sitting on a rock for hours, just talking. It was one of those days that sneaks up on you, where time slows down and something quietly clicks into place. Looking back, it was clearly a date—though Amanda insists she had no idea at the time. By April, they were spending more evenings together, including one with too much wine, too many movies, and just enough honesty to change everything. That night, they stopped pretending it was “just friendship” and never looked back. In the years since, they’ve lived a lot of life together—navigating long nights, early mornings, busy work schedules, and big dreams. Laura graduated from dental school. Amanda earned multiple promotions. They rescued a second dog, Larry, bought their first home, and filled it with laughter, lots of hosting their friends and family, and a rotating door of packed travel bags for all the plans they put together. Through all the highs and lows, their love has grown steady, strong, and even more full of joy. Then in April 2025 (April holds a lot of significant moments for this couple!), Laura pulled off the surprise of all surprises. On a trip to Hawaii, she proposed at a spot on the Big Island dramatically named “The End of the World.” Amanda said yes—through tears (typical Amanda), shock, and laughter. As if that weren’t enough, Laura had secretly arranged a sunrise engagement photo shoot the very next morning. It was perfect. Now, they’re stepping into the next chapter hand-in-hand, excited to keep building a life full of adventure, growth, laughs, and Survivor marathons. They’re each other’s best friend, biggest fan, and soft place to land—and they can’t wait to celebrate this love with the people who’ve cheered them on along the way. You know how much they love to host a party and they can't wait to have the party of a lifetime with you!