Our story is nothing short of a miracle, and we are incredibly fortunate to have found one another and fallen in love.

It all began in Auburn, where Sam was an ROTC student who often hosted friends on the weekends. Early in his second semester, his ROTC friend had invited her cousin Hanna to visit Auburn and join in on whatever weekend shenanigans were taking place. The day before her arrival, the group of guys jokingly made deals over who would talk to her first —even going so far as to scope out her Instagram. Sam, more focused on hosting than competing, was quickly deemed last in line.

When everyone finally arrived, Hanna walked into the party and was immediately swarmed by the group. After the boys had thoroughly worn out their welcome, Hanna found

herself running into Sam in the middle of the chaos. On their way downtown, they hit it off instantly — talking, getting to know each other, and dancing the night away at 17/16 in

downtown Auburn. By the end of the night, Sam worked up the courage to ask for her number, and despite her better judgment, Hanna agreed.

Ironically, they didn’t speak for nearly a month. Then one day, Sam noticed Hanna was upset and decided to check on her. From that moment on, it was as if no time had passed. They talked every day, sharing pictures, songs, and countless messages, with Sam even sending Hanna piano pieces he wrote just for her.

Fate truly intervened when Sam went on a boys’ trip to Panama City Beach. Although away, he continued texting Hanna each night. When she asked where he was staying and learned he was at the Tidewater Resort, she realized she was only twenty minutes away and visiting family in Florida. What started as a coincidence turned into their first real day together. Hanna picked Sam up and introduced him to her family, and they spent the day exploring St. Andrews Harbor. The evening ended with laughter, music from a rickety old piano outside the Salty Hog, and a chaotic but memorable drive home. That night concluded with watching Pirates of the Caribbean — a true trial by fire — and Sam fell completely in love!

Thankfully, amidst all of the chaos of their first day, Sam worked up the courage to ask Hanna out on their first official date. On May 20, 2023, they dined at Bistro 218 in

downtown Birmingham, sharing incredible food and even more heartfelt conversation. The summer that followed was filled with love, growing closer, and bringing their families

together.

As summer ended, distance became their next challenge — Hanna returning to UAB and Sam to Auburn. Though long distance tested them, their love held strong through

phone calls, messages, long drives, and unwavering support. Together and apart, they pushed each other through some of the most challenging moments of their lives.

Soon after, Sam prepared to begin his Air Force career, uncertain of where life would take him but certain he didn’t want to face it alone. After many conversations and a lot of

faith, he knew had to ask Hanna to be beside him for every step ahead.

Under the guise of an anniversary celebration — and with help from Hanna’s family — Sam planned a surprise proposal in Alys Beach. While taking “anniversary photos,” he

found the perfect quiet moment, dropped to one knee, and asked Hanna to marry him. After tears, laughter, and photos, they celebrated at La Crema, where Hanna was surprised

to find her entire family waiting to celebrate with them.

Now, nearly a year later and more than two and a half years together, Sam and Hanna are preparing for their next chapter — marriage, a move to San Antonio, and a lifetime side by side.

H&S

Wedding Day

5:30 PM

Ceremony

6:00 PM

Cocktail Hour