THE MEETING (not pictured): Karis and Chris met on their first day at JBU playing disc golf with a random group of freshmen just trying to meet people. Afterward, Issi (Karis' roommate at the time) elbowed Karis and said "sooo Chris?? He's cute!" Karis rolled her eyes and ignored her.

THE FRIENDSHIP: By the grace of God, Karis and Chris ended up in the same friend group. The honors center study sessions, caf dinners, and inside jokes became part of the regular routine. This photo is from the first of many camping trips of their college career.

MORE THAN FRIENDS? Chris and Karis continued to kick it with their mutual friends. After some time, Karis began to realize that Chris liked her. She was not on board.

NOPE JUST FRIENDS: Start of Sophomore year, Karis knew for sure that Chris liked her. She didn't want more than friendship at that point and very gently and eloquently friend-zoned Chris...at least that's how she saw it.

FAST FORWARD: Their friendship ebbed and flowed, but thankfully, they stayed close throughout the next couple of years. They went camping again, went to Florida for spring break, finished Sophomore year, Karis went to Ireland, they were in their friends' wedding, and started Junior year.

MORE THAN FRIENDS! Towards the end of junior year, Karis and Chris found themselves spending a lot of unplanned time together. Chris decided to go out on a limb and actually ask Karis out - and she said yes!

LONG DISTANCE (pt. 1): The summer of 2023 was full of face time dates while Karis was busy picking blackberries in Northern Ireland (as pictured). While not ideal, they made the most of their time and grew closer despite the distance.

SENIOR YEAR: Karis and Chris spent their time frequenting Pour Jons, going on walks, volunteering at the food pantry at their church, and studying together. It was over this semester that they got to experience life together while dating for the first time.

THE ENGAGEMENT: 2024 brought a lot of challenges and change. Chris spent his final semester abroad, and both Chris and Karis graduated, moved to NWA, and started new jobs. Once the dust had settled, Chris wasted no time in proposing - she said yes!

WEDDING PLANNING: Karis and Chris are enjoying post-grad life with their big kid jobs, wedding planning, and so much to look forward to. They hope to see you Jan 4!