We were both born in Albuquerque and first met in middle school, but our paths didn’t truly cross again until years later. We reconnected at a softball game, where a friend of Jacob’s was playing, and from that moment, they began talking for months. Our first official date, a classic movie and ice cream outing, was simple yet perfect—and it was that night that we started dating. The bond we shared grew stronger as we spent time together during the early days of our relationship, especially during the pandemic. It was during this time that we knew we could face anything as long as they had each other.

As life progressed, Mikaela earned her GED and went on to play softball at JUCO, which marked the beginning of their long-distance journey. Jacob played baseball at Oregon State, and after a year at Yavapai JC, Mikaela transferred to Grand Canyon University in Phoenix for the next three years. Despite the distance, we always found ways to support each other and stay connected, even as we pursued our individual dreams. After Mikaela graduated with her Bachelor's degree in Health Care Administration and Jacob was drafted by the Tampa Bay Rays in 2024, we knew our future together was falling into place. They moved into an apartment in Albuquerque, and not long after, Jacob proposed to Mikaela in the foothills at sunset, with both sets of parents there to share the unforgettable moment.

Now, in 2025, we've moved to the East Coast for Jacob’s baseball career, and after years of long-distance, we're finally able to be together. Mikaela is pursuing her goal of becoming a Sonographer, while Jacob focuses on his professional baseball journey. We're both excited to start this next chapter of our lives together and are eager to celebrate our wedding with all of our loved ones. We can’t wait to create more memories together and are so grateful for the journey that has brought us here.