it's finally happening

We met in 2015 and immediately became inseparable. From the very beginning everyone in our circles could see that there was something between us -- but not us. School schedules, work shifts, and after school activities *magically* lined up for us to spend every moment together. After three years of friendship and falling in love, we finally found the courage to put words to what we were feeling. Now here we are, best friends turned lovers, ready to solidify our love to one another forever.

In October of 2024 we took our annual trip for Matthew's birthday celebration, this time to Charleston, South Carolina. While spending time with Matthew's aunt and uncle, we stumbled upon a charming jewelry store in a converted janitor's closet -- Gold Creations, Charleston. Here Hayleigh found the engagement ring of her dreams in the display window. Weeks later, Matthew called the jeweler, had the ring sized to her finger, and shipped all the way to Michigan. It wasn't until Christmas morning when he placed the ring atop of the angel on our Christmas tree, and proposed while opening our gifts.