Joshua and Samantha actually go way back—they first met in preschool before losing touch in elementary school. Fast forward to their senior year of high school, when they reconnected through mutual friends and picked up an unexpected friendship. Most of their early “bonding” involved Josh helping Samantha with her show steers and blow-drying them—very on-brand for them both.

Their first official date was at Powder River Pizza, where they were both so nervous they shook like leaves. After a few months of easy friendship, little dates, and plenty of small talk, they officially started dating after prom in May 2022.

Not long after, life took them in different directions for college—Josh to Rocky Mountain College to play football, and Samantha to South Dakota State University to pursue a spot on the equestrian team. Two years of long distance later, Samantha moved back home, and the two moved in together.

On May 11, 2025, after three years of dating, Josh proposed on the face of the Bighorn Mountains just off Red Grade. The day was nothing short of chaotic—in true Josh-and-Sam fashion. It included a truck stuck in a creek, a burnout while Josh was still under the hood, and his sister, Carsyn, walking away with a scar from wrestling the parking brake. But when Josh finally asked the question, Samantha immediately broke down in happy tears and said yes without hesitation.

From long-distance college years to moving into their first home together, their story has been full of laughter, learning, and love. They can’t wait to begin this next chapter and celebrate with the people who mean the most to them—see you on the big day!