It was September of 2015, the Spartans were playing the Broncos at Western Michigan University where Ashley attended college. Corey came into town from Michigan State for the game where they were introduced by mutual friends. They had instant chemistry and great conversations, but did not stay in touch.

Six months later, they reconnected, spent the summer building a friendship, and soon became official when they returned to school that fall. They continued their long distance relationship for the next few years until Corey moved to Denver in January of 2020, where Ashley followed soon after. And the rest, as they say, is history.

Corey had plans to propose three different times leading up to the actual engagement. Between the weather, and other unforeseen circumstances, 'the moment' never felt right.

July 2nd, 2022: Corey had taken Ashley and Benji for a 'day hike' to Sapphire Point Overlook in Dillon, CO. He had them hike up a non-existent trail to the top of a mountain, where he had heard 'the best views' were. At the top, he proposed, and it was perfect. Benji thought so, too!

Ashley: I thought Corey was very kind and genuine, and I remember thinking that he had nice eyes. I thought, "I'm going to make this guy fall in love with me", and I did. It was a very accurate first impression. He is very kind and genuine, plus a ton of other wonderful things; and I am very much in love with him and his eyes.

Corey: Ashley was beautiful - I remember her eyes and bright smile immediately caught my attention. She was wearing these bright red running shoes and was so easy to talk to. I knew after that short time speaking to her there was something special and I wanted to get to know her more.