Some love stories begin with chance encounters, others with grand gestures—but Chris and Melissa's journey began with a little matchmaking magic, courtesy of their friend Angie. A text led to a call, and on one of Melissa's breaks at Vanderbilt, she made her intentions clear:

"I am not interested in dating anyone."

Chris, undeterred, simply replied, "Well, even if a good friendship comes out of this..."

And so, with no expectations but an open heart, they met for their first date at True Food-just as the world was slowing down and Iock downs loomed.

While everything else paused, their connection only deepened.

A Love Built on Friendship & Adventure

Friendship came first, laying the foundation for something real. Chris encouraged Melissa to step outside her comfort zone, and together, they embraced adventure-from a road trip to Chattanooga to downhill mountain biking in Colorado, hiking Ramsey's Cascade, and zip-lining through the treetops.

Their growing bond extended beyond just the two of them. Melissa met Hayden, who-after what we suspect was a bit of detective work-learned her name by peeking at Chris's phone, eager to know more about the woman his dad was enamored with. Chris, in turn, met Ella and Brooklyn during a magical holiday season, and soon after, Melissa introduced him to Madison on a trip to New York.

With each shared experience, their love flourished-rescuing a manatee in Sanibel, canyoneering in Zion, braving the rapids, and even whale-watching in Monterey (though Melissa remembers that more for the seasickness than the whales!).

Chris's 50th birthday became a joyous celebration with family and friends, and Melissa's passion for advocacy led her into the world of pageantry, where she championed Alzheimer's and dementia awareness. Winning the title of Ms. Elite Cosmos United States took her to New York Fashion Week, where she graced the runway, Chris cheering her on every step of the way.

A Proposal Written in the Stars

Their love for spontaneous getaways took them rafting, off-roading in Phoenix, and zip-lining through the mountains. But in London, at The Newt in Somerset, Chris orchestrated his greatest adventure yet-an unforgettable proposal. With a ring secretly designed by their children, he asked Melissa to spend forever with him.

Of course, she said "yes".

And so, the adventures continued-from deep-sea diving in Florida to an SEC rivalry game in Oklahoma-vs-Tennessee, and finally, wrapping up 2024 with a magical Christmas ski trip in Winter Park.

Looking back at their journey-from quiet, heartfelt moments to adrenaline-fueled excursions-one thing is certain:

Chris and Melissa's love is built on adventure, laughter, and a deep appreciation for every moment they share.

Now, the greatest adventure of all begins.

Let the adventure continue...