To truly understand Carolyn and Michael’s story, we need to rewind to the mid-2000s, to a place that holds a special spot in their hearts: Camp Longhorn. Each summer, they spent two weeks in Burnet, on the shores of Inks Lake, though their paths only crossed during meals and dance nights—since, boys’ and girls’ camps had little overlap. Unbeknownst to Carolyn, Michael had always noticed her from afar, too shy to take the first step. She just had that je ne sais quoi about her.

Years passed, and their time at camp came to an end. Despite both living in Austin and having a slew of mutual friends, it’s almost comical that their paths didn’t cross in the six or seven years that followed. Each of them went on with their early twenties, building careers, navigating the ever-growing Austin landscape, and finding their ways in life. Then, finally, Michael saw a chance he never thought would be in the cards in 2019. He asked Carolyn’s Maid of Honor, Hannah, to play matchmaker, and Hannah—realizing that these two could be perfect for one another—enthusiastically gave Michael a glowing recommendation.

That summer, Michael and Carolyn had their first date at The Mean Eyed Cat. It didn’t take long for them to realize that their connection was magnetic, especially after talking nonstop for over four hours on a weeknight. The sparks flew, and more dates followed. From getting kicked out of Michael’s apartment pool for being there too late, margaritas at Polvo’s, to their first of many Utopiafests, everything came easy. Before long, both were officially off the market, completely smitten (as a kitten).

Over the years, they’ve become the light in each other’s lives, weathering a pandemic, navigating Stubbs at countless shows, and of course, sharing a life with their beloved cats. Through it all, their bond only continues to grow stronger and they can’t wait for what comes next

Michael knew the way into Carolyn's heart was through horses so what better way to propose than at the barn? On a cool December morning (December 17, 2023, to be exact) Michael asked to join Carolyn at the barn on a lazy Sunday. Little did Carolyn know Michael had planned to pop the question. While grazing her horse Ace on a beautiful day Michael got down on one knee and asked for her hand in marriage using her grandmother's engagement ring!