We were set up by our mutual friends Allen and Ilissa Goines, who clearly knew what they were doing. On September 2nd, Madeline sent Taylor that first message, and just a few days later—on September 5th—we had our very first date at 501 Prime in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Taylor arrived with a rose in hand and a heart already full—we fell in love at first sight. That evening, we laughed our way through the menu (neither of us knew what to order!) and discovered that sometimes the best beginnings are a little awkward and a lot joyful. On November 22nd, surrounded by twinkling lights at the magical Christmas Festival in Natchitoches, Taylor proposed—and Madeline said “yes” to forever. Now, thanks to a little matchmaking magic from Allen and Ilissa (mostly Ilissa 😉), we can’t wait to celebrate our love story with all of you this holiday season. The rest, as they say, is history—and the best chapters are yet to come. 🎁❤️