Our story begins in April 2022, when Ericka and Jake met on Hinge. It was an instant connection as they discovered shared loves: Michigan State University, golf, and being foodies. Although they had both attended Michigan State, their paths had never crossed, aside from a few mutual friends. On their first date, Jake and Ericka explored downtown Brighton, bar-hopping and visiting local spots in search of a pool table. While their mission was unsuccessful, they found something even better — a genuine connection with each other. From then on, they spent their time golfing, trying new restaurants, cooking together, watching movies, and attending MSU events whenever they could. Over the next couple of years, Jake and Ericka spent time with their families and friends, while also traveling together. They made memories in places like Kiawah Island, Traverse City, and Chicago visiting Ericka’s family, and at Aunt Nancy and Uncle George’s famous basement bar, enjoying a cocktail or two. In July 2023, Ericka put down roots in Brighton, purchasing a condo close to downtown. By September 2024, Jake and Ericka were ready for the next chapter and decided to move in together. They quickly became regulars at their favorite local restaurants, walking downtown rain, snow, or shine, and getting to know many of the bartenders by name. In May 2025, Jake, Ericka, and Jake’s family traveled to Kiawah Island, South Carolina, to stay with Jake’s grandparents. With Kiawah being their favorite place in the world, Jake knew it was the perfect place to propose, specifically at their favorite spot, Pier 12, where they have enjoyed multiple sunrise coffees and sunset happy hours.  What began as a day for “family pictures” (which Ericka was understandably suspicious of) turned into a day they would never forget. Jake, along with his parents and Ericka’s parents, carefully planned to get her parents to Kiawah without her knowing (shoutout to Mark and Debbie for turning off your locations!). After fielding many questions from Ericka and enduring a few stubbed toes along the way, Jake surprised her with a proposal at their favorite place. Jake and Ericka cannot wait to celebrate their marriage with their closest friends and family at The War Memorial in Grosse Pointe Farms on October 23, 2026.