This love story began in the Chemistry building at UM, freshman year of college. Nick had class before Hannah and they would see each other frequently, but neither had the courage to speak to one another until the following semester.


While getting dinner at the Food Zoo (UMs cafeteria), Nick casually bumped into Hannah and then asked her if he could sit with her at dinner. Hannah, of course said yes, as by this time she had a secret crush on this mystery man. Over dinner, Hannah learned that Nick was from a small town in Montana, was passionate about sports medicine and HE HAD A CAR (A big deal for a college freshman who had no transportation of her own). Nick learned that Hannah was from Southern California and a huge Dodger fan, was majoring in psychology, and was some how more competitive than himself.

They then spent the next 8 hours talking about everything from career plans, to favorite type of music (both love country), to the most important things about themselves. A few weeks later, Nick took a page from George Straight and wrote Hannah a letter saying Will you be my girlfriend? Check yes or no. From that day on (March 3rd 2018), Nick and Hannah became inseparable.

When the end of their undergraduate careers were approaching, both Nick and Hannah knew they wanted to continue and work towards their Master's Degrees. While Nick had gotten into to the UM Master's of Athletic Training Program, Hannah decided she wanted a change on scenery. After months of applying and interviewing (in the middle of the pandemic), Hannah decided to go to Boise State University for her Master's Degree in Social Work. Thus began their 363 mile long distance relationship.

Late night FaceTime calls were a daily occurrence for Nick and Hannah as they spent all day in a classroom or out in the field. They would regularly take 3 day weekends to drive and see each other, Hannah getting to come back to Missoula or Nick getting to explore the new world of Boise, ID. In May of 2022, Nick and Hannah both graduated with their Master's degrees, secured jobs in Missoula and moved in together.

On December 3rd, 2022 Nick and Hannah planned to go to the Christmas tree lighting in downtown Missoula. As Christmas is both of their favorite holiday season, this would be the perfect time to propose. Nick had the ring, had gotten Hannah’s parents blessing, and had the plan, now he just needed to execute. Before going to the tree lighting, Hannah and Nick had planned to meet their new puppy Willow for the first time. Hannah fell absolutely in love with her and did not want to leave to go to the tree lighting. Nick, having his plan to propose that night, forced them to leave and got to the tree lighting with just a few minutes to spare. Once the tree had been lit, their friends insisted they take pictures in front of the tree under the guise of “Christmas card pictures”. While posing for pictures, Nick got down on one knee and popped the question! Hannah, of course, said yes!!

We are so excited to celebrate with all of our close friends and family. We cannot wait for our big day!! Cheers!