While attending college at Bemidji State University, Kristina and Zach met while walking to class on the first day of spring semester, Freshman year. Kristina was lost, but Zach helped her find her way (even though he was lost too). They discovered that they had a mutual friend, and started to hang out more frequently. One night in March, while watching a movie in Zach's dorm, they kissed. And the rest was history.

They were just getting ready to leave Bemidji for a weekend in the cities, celebrating Zach's 26th birthday and Valentine's Day. After they packed up the car, Zach came up the stairs holding a bouquet of roses, a box of chocolates, and a card. The card read, "Dearest Kristina, my whole life Valentine's Day has always been about me and never about anyone else for obvious reasons, but not anymore. You Kristina are the only one I want to care for, to cherish, and to have. As of today I want you to be my forever Valentine. I love you with all my heart and more. Love Zachary." When Kristina looked up from reading the card, Zach was down on one knee. Kristina screamed, Indiana (their dog) jumped into her arms because she was so excited, and Zach put the ring onto her finger. They then spent the weekend celebrating their engagement with their family.