Sophie moved to Charlotte, NC to volunteer for a few months before starting her teaching career in Illinois. For what was planned to be a short visit, she was able to meet many wonderful people who became dear friends. Among those friends are Jacob’s brother and sister-in-law, Jared and Katrina. While Jared may take most (all) the credit for our paths crossing, it couldn’t have happened without the help of Katrina and other friends Joey, and Alyssa to encourage the meet up.

With about one month left in her Charlotte adventure, Sophie was invited out by friends to a salsa dance event. That evening shortly after parking, to Sophie’s surprise there was an extra handsome, suave, and intelligent gentleman to accompany the group. Jared introduced Jacob to Sophie as they made their way to the brewery. Jacob and Sophie sat across from each other (almost as if the group pre-calculated the seating arrangement) and began a conversation over their same order of a sour ale.

Shortly after, the group headed to the Salsa Social at Infinity Ballroom where they began the beginners class for Casino style salsa. After the group learned the steps individually, they were asked to pair up. Again, calculated by the group, the friends paired up leaving Jacob and Sophie to be partners. As they continued to learn the dance, the group formed a circle. The instructor would yell “dame” which meant they must switch partners. After 5 minutes of practicing in the circle, Jacob and Sophie were switched and danced with different partners for the rest of the night.

Jared and Katrina’s matchmaking efforts did not stop there. The following week, Katrina invited Sophie to an amusement park with their family. After a day full of laughter and conversation, Jacob walked Sophie to her car and asked for her number. The following weekends in Charlotte Sophie would spend with Jacob going mini golfing, watching Charlotte FC games, or attending concerts. Before Sophie left for Illinois, Jacob and Sophie agreed to stay in touch. Throughout that year they would visit one another for weekend trips. Then, in August 2023, Sophie moved to Charlotte to start a teaching job. Jacob proposed to Sophie February 3rd, 2024.