We met on a dating app called Hinge. After talking for about a month, Cree finally forced Jared to commit to a date. Our first date was January 30, 2020. We went to Honda-ya, one of Cree's favorite sushi spots, where Jared tried sushi for the first time. We had the best time and had a lovely kiss goodnight. When Jared got home, he asked Cree if she wanted to go out again the next day and she said yes. From there on, we saw each other almost every day until the Covid-19 pandemic hit. We had to make a decision whether to put our blooming relationship on hold or to just go for it. We went for it and quarantined together for months, during which time we really learned a lot about what we loved and didn't love so much about each other. It made us feel as if we had known each other for years and we were able to experience so much together that most people don’t get to in the beginning of their relationships. Years into it, our love grew and we knew we wanted to spend the rest of our lives together.

We were visiting Jared's parents in Wisconsin, as we did every summer around the 4th of July. On the evening of June 30, 2024, we were planning to go by boat to a nice restaurant on the lake they live on. Jared went down to the pier before everyone else and asked Cree to join him to wait for the rest of the family (who were actually in on the plan and stalling coming down to the boat!) When Cree got down to the pier, Jared dropped down on one knee and said, "I know you think I'm indecisive, but with you it's an easy decision. I love you and can't wait to spend the rest of my life with you. Will you marry me?" Cree was shocked and surprised and said yes! Jared then placed the beautiful emerald cut engagement ring on Cree's finger. The proposal was captured in photos and videos by Jared's family and their next door neighbors, who were also in on the plan. After much hugging, crying and congratulations, we got on the pontoon boat, which sits covered under a canopy. Cree and Jared then found the boat had been secretly decorated with balloons, streamers, and "Just Engaged" signs. We toasted with champagne and called family and friends with the happy news!