From Holly--

Just short of 9 years ago, finishing up my first semester at ECU, I was invited to the Outback Steakhouse (off-campus dinner— yes please) by a lifelong friend and leadership mentor, Dylan Moore. I met Zachary Drach that night. I sat directly across from him and ordered a salad— he peered over his menu at me until the waitress took it from him. & before he tells you different, yes he did, I have witnesses! When we stood up to leave, both of us had cowboy boots on. I looked at Dylan & he looked at me— I didn’t have to say anything. Dylan simply says “I know.” God wink. Now it took him two weeks to text me, but a God wink nonetheless.

At that time in my life Zack was a breath of fresh air, a gentle calm to my crazy. He was a sweet text on a tough day. He would come home from Raleigh & not tell anyone just so he could see me for a couple hours. Initially a greater portion of our relationship was long distance— he didn’t care. Didn’t bother him a bit. I cannot tell you how comforting it was to be in two different cities and still feel his love as if he was sitting right next to me. His dimples could melt the coldest heart and he is the picture of simple kindness. If you are lucky enough to know Zack Drach, you are truly lucky. Yes— there are dimples under that beard! I tell everyone that asks me— I asked the Lord to send me a sign of His love for me & a week later I met Zack. Won’t God do it?

Zack and I have seen each other through so many sweet memories— summer concerts, boat days, Farmhouse, tailgates, ball games, graduations, 8 Christmases, our sweet Rosie June; along with some of the worst days of our lives. Loss and grief, stress, sickness, career changes. We have walked through the valleys and stood on the mountaintops. In all of these his love has never wavered, though I’m sure I‘ve given him plenty a run for his money along the way. He is my soft place to land. The most patient person I know. He has a steadfast love that knows no ceiling. What a sweet gesture to know that Christ Jesus hand picked Zack for me, and what an honor it is to be the one specifically chosen for Zack. I know that God is real & He is love because I see Him in Zack every single day.

It’s really surreal to see this whole thing come full circle, I’m feeling so much nostalgia and excitement, so many emotions all at once. It has been so much fun to jump head first into what is to be yet another wonderful medley of memories together. While I can’t wait to do this with my very best friend on the planet, I know we will need the support of all of those who love us too. So, if you don’t mind, I’d like to introduce you to the newest chapter of our lives— The future Drachs!

Photos

Photos from the (SURPRISE!) Engagement

Some favorites from our Engagement Session with Meredith Underwood Photography