Our love story began in 2018 and our lives haven't been the same since! I, Alyssa, was visiting with my sister and her now husband, Josh, at their house. Josh decided to invite a few friends over to hang out. One of those friends just happened to be Dalton. I knew of him because of living in the small town of Camden, but I had never been around him before. I remember thinking that he looked cute in his long sleeve white t-shirt and hat, but nothing more than that. We actually didn't speak to each other that night from what I can remember. Still though, a friend of Dalton's told him that he should try to pursue me. Unexpectedly, I got a message from Dalton the next morning and we talked to each other from that day on! I played hard to get for the longest time. I had never been in a serious relationship before and didn't know if I was ready for it. After about five months of talking, I realized that he was the one for me. I found myself almost telling him I loved him and we weren't even officially together at that point! We began dating on August 4th , 2018 and I have loved every minute of it!

We got engaged on June 23rd at Johnson's Beach in Perdido Key, FL! My sister and I had planned a family photo shoot while on vacation with a local photographer as a gift to my mom. Little did I know, Dalton was talking to the photographer more than I was. When we arrived at Johnson's Beach, everyone was acting normal and the shoot was going great. I had a small inkling that I could be getting engaged, but I really didn't think it was going to happen. When we made our way to the shore at sunset for more pictures, I turned away from Dalton and as I turned back around, he was on a knee! A flood of emotions ran over me, and I am pretty sure I blacked out for a second. It was the easiest yes ever, and I would relive that moment over and over if I was given the chance! Dalton is kind, goofy, hard-working, and so loving. He is a man of God, and I know our relationship will continue to be built around our faith in Jesus. <3

It is so crazy to think that we are old enough to be getting married pretty soon, but I am so excited for our big day. At times, I still feel like the young girl who was frantically getting dressed for her first date with a boy in a maroon pick up truck. Before I know it, I will be putting on a white dress to walk down the aisle to that same boy, who is now my future husband. We cannot wait to celebrate our day with those we love most! Here's to becoming a Pate forever!