It all started in the summer of 2017, when we were just 14 years old—two teenagers about to begin high school with no idea what was ahead. We met that summer and quickly became close friends. By October, our friendship had blossomed into something more, and we officially started dating.

We spent the next four years growing up together—homecoming dances, late-night phone calls, cheering each other on , and making all the memories that come with being high school sweethearts. In 2021, we walked across the stage at graduation ready to take on the next chapter—though it meant going to different colleges.

Zach went off to Eastern Kentucky University, and Ellie headed to the University of Kentucky. Being apart wasn’t easy, especially while juggling the stress of long nights of homework and studying, but we stuck by each other through every up and down. Four more years flew by, and in May 2025, we graduated college still together and stronger than ever.

Then, the day after Zach's graduation, he had one more surprise planned. At the beautiful Kentucky Horse Park, on May 17th, 2025, Zach got down on one knee and asked Ellie to spend forever with him. (Spoiler alert: she said yes!)

Now, eight years after it all began, we’re so excited to celebrate the start of our next adventure with all the people we love most.

E&Z

Wedding Day