Cade and Ashlyn have known each other for years. They grew up together in grade school, but it wasn’t until freshman year of high school that they really became friends. Their friendship quickly blossomed, and by the summer before junior year, they started dating.
Their first date was at the Henry Doorly Zoo. They rode the skyfari (ski lift), and Cade surprised Ashlyn with a dolphin stuffed animal from the gift shop—a simple but special start to something lasting.
Throughout high school, they shared a love for the little things. Instead of typical teenage adventures, they found joy in going to the movies, bowling, and walking dogs for Cade’s mom’s dog-walking business. It was the everyday moments that brought them closer. After graduating high school together, they both attended Northwest Missouri State University—Ashlyn studying Dietetics and Cade pursuing Finance. They rented their first home together, which looked more like a shed than a house, but it was theirs. With their dog, Wilson, by their side, it was full of love and laughter.
During college, they discovered how much they loved being active together. Whether it was playing one-on-one basketball, hitting the golf course, or just staying on the move, they always found ways to have fun and stay connected. Today, they still love staying active—especially through their favorite, sand volleyball. Their competitive spirit and shared sense of humor have always brought them closer, helping them grow through every season of life.
After college, life took them in different directions. They made the difficult decision to go their separate ways to grow as individuals. Looking back, they both agree it was the right choice at the time—but they’re even more grateful that life eventually led them back to each other.
Now, they’ve bought their first official home, they’re traveling as much as they can, and they’re soaking in every moment of this exciting chapter. They remain incredibly close with their families and friends, who have supported them through every step of their journey. The love and encouragement they receive continues to mean the world to them.
Their little family has grown, too. They now have two cats, Nova and Cosmo, and their wiener dog Derby—also known as Doppy. These three bring so much joy, laughter, and personality into their home, and Cade and Ashlyn can’t wait to see what adventures await them all.