Austin and Elizabeth met their freshman year of college at the University of Central Florida, where they shared a close group of mutual friends. Although a romantic connection did not start until many years later, they built a strong foundation through a sweet friendship.

Over the years they remained around the same close-knit group of friends, one in particular (hi Gabby), who diligently took the reins as matchmaker. Although living in complete different parts of the country, they were brought back together in the Summer of 2021 in Fort Lauderdale, FL at a sending off party for Gabby, and her husband Brandon, on their new endeavors in Jacksonville, FL. There, Austin and Elizabeth’s romantic connection took root. Later that fall, it was official - they were a new couple!

At the time Elizabeth was working in Washington, D.C to help support the COVID efforts in the city. Austin remained in Miami, for the time being, also working in healthcare. After a very short while, they both came to realize they could no longer stand a long distance relationship. Early 2022, only 6 months into their relationship, Austin relocated to Washington, D.C. They officially moved in together in 2023, and shortly after, took the leap to move to the Pacific Northwest.

Three years into their relationship, in Paris, France - Austin got down on a knee to propose to his best friend and the love of his life. Normally, moving thousands of miles so soon into a new relationship is thought to be naïve, scary or even reckless. Becoming “The Layne’s” shows just how special our connection was from the start.

So, this coming Spring, we are so excited to share our love story with you all in the beautiful Miami, Florida! We can’t wait to see you all on the big day!