Ethan and Candace grew up attending the same school from K5 through college. However, our friend groups didn't overlap much growing up. Our friendship began our senior year of high school, where we both ended up having a free hour together. Over that year, our friendship deepened as we got to know each other during that free hour (with the inclusion of one other mutual friend).

When college started, the three of us began to meet on a fairly regular basis to catch up and reunite our little group. Over time, what was supposed to be the three of us ended up being just the two of us since our friend was involved in intercollegiate sports. During those college years, we both grew very close and became best friends while also having other dating relationships that never worked out. Senior year of college brought challenges of its own, as we were unsure of what the future held for us and our paths, but it seemed clear that dating was not an option then.

After Ethan left for grad school, it became clear that neither of us wanted to leave our friendship as it was, and in October 2020, we both decided we wanted and were ready to move forward in our relationship. Most of our dating, unfortunately, was long distance since Ethan was in St. Louis, MO, and Candace was in Greenville, SC. After Ethan graduated in May 2023, we were engaged in September 2023.

We are both very grateful that the Lord brought us together and how he has grown us and shown Himself faithful in our relationship over the years. We give all the glory to Him and are thankful for His continual pursuit of us. We are excited for this next chapter of our lives as we come together and have opportunities to serve God.