Ben and Alexa first met in 2018 through their mutual friend McKenna. They both graduated nursing school in December of 2018 and went on to begin their busy lives as nurses at Sanford.

It wasn’t until June of 2021 that they went on their first official date at Plaza Azteca. Alexa actually tried to cancel an hour before and Ben did not let that fly-he called her and said “I’ll pick you up in a hour, so be ready” and she was. Going on that date was the best choice she ever made. They talked for hours over good food and even better margs. It was pretty clear to the both of them that it would be the last ‘first date’ either of them would ever go on.

They fell in love over the summer while enjoying time at the lakes, trying new restaurants and grabbing a few (too many) cocktails. The first true test of their relationship was when Fall rolled around and Ben had a second full time job hunting. After making it through hunting season and Alexa working straight nights, they knew they could make it through anything. They continued to grow as a couple and have shared some of the greatest moments together.

Fast forward to July 1st 2023..
Ben and Alexa were hanging out at her family’s lake cabin. Ben’s parents came to hang out on the lake for the day and everyone enjoyed too much sun (and naturally, a couple shot skis.) The day was filled with lots of love and laughter. Ben’s parents headed back to Fargo and Alexa and Ben continued to hang out with her family by the lake. A reference was made by Ben about getting engaged (this wasn’t the first—it was his favorite thing to tease her about) and Alexa’s aunt told him to s**t or get off the pot. Within a few minutes, Ben was telling Alexa he wanted to spend his life with her and got on one knee. It was such a special moment surrounded by some of their favorite people (missing Ben’s family). Alexa’s dad and cousin both quickly caught on that Ben was proposing and got some priceless video footage that they could share with everyone who wasn’t there! It was a day they’ll never forget.

The two will become The Nelsons on May 24th and cannot wait to start building their lives together!