It all started with a “PSL”. Pumpkin Spice Latte for those not familiar with the acronym. Abby and I knew each other in middle school and had the privilege of both being a part of the “National Academic League” where we got to test our knowledge doing trivia competitions against other schools. We were in 6th grade at the time so it was too early to even think about dating even though I felt we had a great connection.

Fast forward to freshman year of high school. As fate would have it, we ran into each other one morning a few weeks into the year. We didn’t have any classes together at the time but we briefly caught up with each other and I knew I needed to see more of this girl. I was drinking a pumpkin spice latte from Starbucks. Abby had no clue what it was but asked if she could have a sip. I remember asking her “do you even drink coffee??” in a skeptical tone. I’d been drinking coffee since 2nd grade so I couldn’t imagine anyone living without it. She simply said “no” while taking the cup out of my hand and taking a sip. “It made my stomach feel so warm!” she said in a delighted voice. I was thrilled because I now knew we had something to bond over. Could “PSL’s” be the secret?

We had a great year and became such good friends. I wanted to date her but she wasn’t exactly looking for a boyfriend at the time. Despite the bonding over coffees, summer came and the bonding faded, at least for that chapter.

We were fortunate enough to get back in touch late in the summer before our senior year. We had both been in relationships throughout high school but again found ourselves single at the perfect time. Abby still “friend-zoned” me until the second half of our senior year, but it was well worth the wait. We were nervous we wouldn’t end up at the same college and questioned how a long distance relationship would work. Thankfully, Appalachian State happened to be both of our dream schools of choice and we were fortunate enough to get accepted.

The rest is history. We loved our time at App and our love grew tremendously over those four years. The quaint little mountain town of Boone that we got to call home for four years will forever hold a place near and dear to our hearts.

We’ve since lived in Charlotte, NC for the last seven years. We are the proud parents of a mini golden doodle named Brooks who is now four years old. He is our prized possession and we have enjoyed raising him. Thank you in advance for celebrating this day with us - we look forward to spending time with you!