It started with a swipe—Ashly and CJ’s paths first crossed on Bumble, but their connection felt fated. Their first conversation was about Ashly’s two fluffy Pomeranians, Butters and Rollo, and CJ lit up — having grown up in a family that adored Pomeranians. It was an instant bond, but neither of them could have guessed just how life-changing that first chat would be.

Their first date, at Pine State Biscuits, wasn’t just breakfast — it was magic in the making. They stood in line, chatting effortlessly about life, friends, and dreams. By the time they were seated, CJ knew he had met someone extraordinary. When he shyly asked to hold Ashly’s hand during their walk after breakfast, both of them felt it: this was different. This was special.

From that day on, life unfolded in a way that neither of them had ever experienced. Two souls who had always carved their own paths suddenly found themselves walking the same one — hand in hand, heart to heart. It was as if the universe had whispered, “Here is your person.”

They traveled together, danced at festivals, and blended their lives seamlessly. Music became their shared language. CJ introduced Ashly to Odesza, and it wasn’t just the music they fell in love with — it was the way those songs became the soundtrack of their life together. Their love grew in quiet moments on the couch, playing video games with Ashly’s sister Paytin, and in adventures across states, rivers, and lakes.

One of their earliest adventures took them to Torch Lake, Michigan — Ashly’s family’s summer haven. Though they had only known each other for a few months, Ashly brought CJ to meet her entire family. Her dad picked him up from the airport before Ashly even arrived. Most people might have been nervous — but not CJ. He charmed her family and, without hesitation, became a part of the life Ashly had built. Torch Lake became their sanctuary, a place they returned to every summer, where they’ll now celebrate their wedding and build new memories with their future family.

CJ knew early on that he had found the woman he wanted to spend his life with. One night, dancing in their living room to “How Deep Is Your Love,” CJ looked at Ashly and said softly, “I’ve always wanted to dance to this song with the woman I love.” The words caught them both off guard, but in that moment, it was clear — this wasn’t just love. This was forever.

When CJ proposed in the Bahamas, with Ashly’s closest friends by their side, he recreated the magic of their life together — music playing, sunset glowing, love filling the air. He was nervous, fumbling for words, but Ashly saw the man she had always known him to be: kind, thoughtful, and hers. She said yes without hesitation, knowing she had found the adventure partner she had always dreamed of.

Ashly inspires CJ to be the best version of himself. She’s fierce, driven, and unstoppable — a woman who takes no nonsense and leads with love and strength. CJ makes Ashly want to soften her edges and lean into life’s joy. He brings kindness and care into every moment, treating her like the queen she is. Together, they balance each other perfectly — a reminder that love is both strength and softness, laughter and light.

Their love story is one of adventure, laughter, and unwavering support. Two wanderers who had once been content on their own now know that life’s greatest journey is best traveled together. Their wedding at Torch Lake will mark the beginning of their greatest adventure yet — creating a home, building a family, and continuing to dance through life with love as their guide.

Forever partners. Forever home. Forever adventure.