We first met in the spring of 2017 during our sophomore year of high school. Though we sat at opposite ends of the same lunch table, it wasn't until a half-day school trip to the park that we finally talked—and instantly clicked.

Our friendship blossomed, and by the end of February 2018, we were officially a couple.

We worked together at the local Cinemark, sharing shifts, car rides, and a love for movies. Our bond grew stronger as we finished high school in spring of 2019.

We continued our journey together at Texas A&M, living across campus from each other and sharing a close-knit group of friends.

After graduating in May 2023, we moved to Dallas and began building our life together.

In January 2025, during a family visit to Bellingham, Washington, Matthew surprised Dakota with a proposal at Whatcom Falls. What she thought was a photoshoot with her mom and sister turned into the beginning of our next chapter.

Now, we're thrilled to celebrate our love with you and can't wait to see what the future holds <3