Mark and Angelica’s journey began at Lakeland High School, where they first met as members of the Marching Band. Though just friends at the time, fate had other plans. Years later, in August 2018, their paths crossed again—right as Angelica was preparing to move to Grand Rapids to attend Grand Valley State University. Despite the distance, a connection quickly rekindled. Countless FaceTime calls and messages later, they officially began dating on August 24, 2018. Mark frequently made the drive to Grand Rapids to visit, and by the following fall, he decided to join Angelica at GVSU to continue his own education. While at GVSU, they moved in together and adopted their beloved dog, Mac, who brought them so much joy before sadly passing a few years later. After completing their bachelor degrees, both Mark and Angelica were accepted into the same graduate school in Jacksonville, Florida—a new chapter they were excited to begin together. In Florida, they welcomed a new puppy, Ruby, and continued building their life side by side. Then, during a visit back to Michigan in September 2024, Mark proposed on the shores of Lake Michigan at Kirk Park, with Ruby right by their side. Just a few weeks later, they added another pup, Betsy, to their growing family. Now, as they begin their careers and plan their wedding, Mark and Angelica are filled with gratitude for the journey that brought them here—and so much excitement for the life they’re building together as husband and wife.