Believe it or not, Derek and Tess's love story kicked off at a bar called Ale House in Westport, Kansas City. Tess was looking for “new friends” who didn't want to call it a night early, so she jokingly asked Derek, a complete stranger, if he’d like to keep the party going. To her surprise, he said yes! Along with Derek’s friend Nancy (a bridesmaid) and Tess’ friend Jeff (a groomsman), they all hit it off that night and quickly became part of each other's friend groups.

Then Covid hit, and their big friend group shrunk down to just an inner circle. They spent more time together, and Tess realized she saw Derek as more than just a friend. One night, she just flat out told him. He didn't quite get that she meant she was into him right then, and he thought he'd missed his shot. But a few weeks later, they ended up hanging out just the two of them because everyone else was busy. They stayed up till 4 AM, chilling in Derek's living room hammock, watching Ace Ventura, and just talking about everything under the sun. It felt like they were meant to be.

They spent the next months riding out quarantine together in Derek's townhome, binge-watching movies and reality TV, and chatting nonstop. They officially became a couple three months after Tess confessed her crush, and they haven't looked back since.

Two years later, Derek decided to pop the question. He set up a scavenger hunt that took Tess through all the important places in their relationship. The final clue led her to their backyard at the house they'd bought together earlier that year. He was super nervous, even though he knew she'd say yes, because he wanted everything to be perfect.

What they love most about each other is how they are always laughing, and falling more in love with each passing day. It's been an incredible journey so far, and they can't wait to see what else is in store for them as a married couple!