We don’t remember the exact date we met, but our story began as close friends in youth group. We spent time talking, laughing, hanging out, and confiding in each other. Little did I know, Michael had a major crush on me for years—a spark that was reignited in 2023 at my sister’s wedding.

I invited him to be my plus-one, thinking it would be a great way to catch up with an old friend since he had moved back to Georgia years ago. But that evening, something changed for both of us—his spark for me was rekindled, and a new chapter of our story began.

Michael asked me out, and everything just fell into place from there.

Even though our relationship has been long-distance, the foundation of our friendship as teenagers means so much to us. It’s crazy to think that the tall, funny friend I once knew is now my future husband.