Donita and Ryan didn’t begin dating until their senior year of high school, but once they did, their days quickly filled with the little moments that make young love so memorable. Donita still thinks back to Ryan walking her to class, and the mornings they’d intentionally arrive a little late just so they could grab Allie’s donuts together. Those moments didn’t end when the school day did, either. They would stay up late talking, sometimes falling asleep on FaceTime because neither of them wanted to hang up first. They were simple routines, but they became the foundation of something steady, genuine, and incredibly special.

Donita and Ryan got engaged on August 22, 2023, during an unforgettable trip to Kauai, Hawaii. Before the trip, Donita created a whole list of hikes she hoped they could explore together. On their second day, they set out on the Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail, taking in the stunning ocean views along the cliffs. As they paused to admire the scenery, Donita looked out over the water and said to Ryan, “I can’t believe we get to experience this together.” She began walking toward the cliffs when Ryan called out, “Come back!” Thinking he simply didn’t want her too close to the edge, she turned around, walked back toward him, and gave him a kiss — and that’s when he dropped to one knee and proposed. Donita was completely surprised. That moment instantly became one of the most treasured memories of their lives. A piece of their hearts will always belong to Kauai.

Donita and Ryan’s story began as innocent high school sweethearts, never imagining that those hallway walks and late-night FaceTime calls would one day grow into a life they’d build side by side. Over nearly ten years together, they’ve grown from teenagers figuring out the world into partners who have navigated school, work, milestones, and real life as a team. Their journey has been filled with the little things that make a relationship feel like home—shared routines, new adventures, and learning how to support each other through every change life brought their way. One of the greatest chapters of their story came with the arrival of their daughter, Amabella, who brought a new kind of love and joy into their lives and made their bond even stronger. Looking back, they can see how every stage—high school, early adulthood, and now parenthood—shaped them into who they are today. And as they step into marriage, they’re grateful for every moment that led them here and excited for everything still to come.