It all started in May 22, 2022. Christian and Caitlin were both single and exploring the online dating world. Little did they know their "fun and single" escapade would be cut short when Caitlin replied to Christian's Hinge prompt, "The award I should be nominated for... funniest laugh."

Fast forward a few days, and Caitlin agreed to go on a date in Omaha with Christian. Little did Caitlin know that when she decided to go on a date with him, she forgot to save his name and number on her phone and thought she was agreeing to go on a date with someone else. Caitlin figured this out as she was actively driving up to go on what would be their first date.

Their first date went well as Christian was a true gentleman, holding Caitlin's doors open, treating her to Noodles & Co., and Caitlin kicking Christian's butt at Topgolf.

Unfortunately, the feeling was not equally mutual after the first date. Caitlin had left on a family vacation with no intention of pursuing a relationship with Christian as he was "too nice." Christian persisted, though, and continued to show Caitlin how she deserved to be treated.

Eventually, Caitlin fell for Christian's charming personality, unwavering dedication, and contagious laugh. This leads to Caitlin working abroad for a month in South Africa, with Christian adamantly stating they would only date once Caitlin returned home. Caitlin did not like this plan. She then took it upon herself to ask Christian out. Okay, she might have had to ask multiple times, but he said yes!

They spent the first 2 months of their relationship doing long distance and realizing how much they cared for one another. During Caitlin's time in South Africa, she realized how strongly she felt for Christian and even told him she loved him over the phone. Well... the feeling was mutual this time!

Caitlin returned home and continued her studies at Iowa State University, while Christian worked full-time in Omaha for 1.5 years. In the spring of 2024, Caitlin accepted an internship in Omaha, where she and Christian FINALLY got to end their long-distance streak and moved in together.

After living together for a little over half a year, they both decided they were ready for forever. On July 27th, 2024 Christian took Caitlin out to dinner, and surprised her with a stop at a local lake. One of Christian's good friends was there to be their surprise photographer, but he got lost at the lake so Christian made Caitlin stare at a group of ducks for 10 minutes to kill time... Christian then got down on one knee, and Caitlin said yes!

Now it is time to get them married!

While gifts are not required, we are so thankful for your gift as we start our life as a family together! <3