TJ and Julia technically met freshman year of high school, but they didn’t really interact until senior year in Mrs. Harr’s public speaking class, where their conversations were less romantic and more heated debates. By the end of senior year, they had officially earned the title of “classroom enemies” — constantly butting heads and driving each other insane.

Years later, they reconnected in college thanks to a little matchmaking from Julia’s cousin Corey. The rivalry had faded, and something new had sparked.

Their first date was definitely one to remember. TJ won Julia over by purchasing her a pair of Crocs (which is basically a marriage proposal if you ask her). Julia wasn’t feeling great that day, and she actually passed out. TJ instinctively tried to catch her (chivalry isn’t dead!), and in true rom-com fashion, she quite literally fell head over heels. Not exactly the smoothest start, but it made for a great story — and TJ proved early on he could handle anything!

The beginning of their relationship was spent long distance — TJ in Kent and Julia in Columbus — but they made it work through road trips, phone calls, and a lot of love. After both graduating (TJ from Kent State, Julia from Ohio State), they bought their first home together in Stow and settled in with their three cats: Kit, Jim, and Talia.

They’ve been collecting memories ever since — traveling together, making a home, and building a life full of laughter. One of their most special adventures took them to Paros, Greece, where TJ proposed during a trip with friends. Julia had a hunch it might happen, but what she didn’t expect was the beautiful surprise: TJ had asked her entire family for permission to propose using her Great-Grandma Julia’s ring. That moment made the proposal even more meaningful.

Now, they’re getting ready to tie the knot — excited to celebrate this next chapter with all the people who’ve been part of their journey.

Registry