Jan and Alex first met in the 7th grade at Chelsea Middle School. The two have always been close and one could say they have grown up together... from middle, to high school, and eventually college. They crossed paths often at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, and continued to build their friendship. Over the course of 17 years, they attended many group trips, birthdays, weddings, and life events. They confided in and supported each other. But even after all the time spent together, they maintained their platonic relationship. 

Various people would ask if they have previously dated, or were dating, and the response was always “that’s crazy, we’re just good friends.”


....... Fast forward to their early 30s, they finally decided to give dating a chance.


The Proposal: 
Alex and Jan had planned to throw a Christmas party on December 23,2022. 
Jan had no idea, but what she thought would be a festive night with friends would turn into their engagement party. Alex convinced Jan to go out of the house to go meet a friend, Haley, who had just flown in from Bali and wouldn't be able to make it to the Christmas party later that night. While she was reluctant to go after working to get the house prepared for the party, Jan caved after some relentless persuasion ...... 
They were headed for one drink at the Redmont Hotel, where some of Jan’s best friends were hiding and waiting for their arrival. Once they arrived, much to her surprise, and surrounded by loved ones, Alex got down on one knee and asked Jan to be his wife!