College football wasn't the only thing that kicked off on Labor Day Weekend 2019, as Corey and Kristen had their first date on Friday, August 30. During their 8-hour whirlwind of sushi, karaoke, darts, and convincing strangers they were celebrating their 4th anniversary, they connected over a mutual love of Chick-fil-A and live music. While it was evident there was something special happening between these two, it wasn't until Corey's dog Buck enthusiastically approved of Kristen that they knew there could be a serious future. Unfortunately, meeting Corey during the fall meant that Kristen had to share him with football every Saturday. While this could have caused issues with spending time together, Kristen was able to bypass any complications (and spend more time with Buck) by moving in with Corey after only a few weeks! From countless concerts across Chicago to Fright Fest at Six Flags, the fall was full of exciting adventures for the new couple. Once December rolled around, it was time for an important step: visiting each other's hometowns. Like a champ, Kristen joined Corey in Atlanta to tour the Chick-fil-A headquarters, visit the Georgia Aquarium, and to watch UGA play for the SEC championship (he even got her to dress in Red and Black!). He returned the favor a few weeks later when he spent Christmas with her family in New Jersey where he was able to meet those most important in her life and make a valiant attempt at one of Kristen's favorite activities: skiing. A few bruises and a memorable night in NYC later, these two began to get a view for what their future may look like. The couple tackled their biggest test yet when COVID-19 forced them to be together 24/7. It was amid the lockdown where the couple realized how much they loved each other's company, even after working and living together in a 1-bedroom apartment. The love they had for each other grew stronger by the day, and was further heightened by the addition of their new puppy, Belle. The pandemic unfortunately cancelled or postponed many of their plans, so Corey and Kristen eagerly joined their friends for a road trip to Panama City Beach at the end of June. Corey knew that this would be the perfect opportunity to make his intentions known to Kristen. In the middle of a fun-filled vacation, he distracted her by checking off one of the top entries on her bucket list when she got to swim with dolphins. That night, Corey was able to convince her it would be the perfect time to take family pictures on the beach with their dogs. Once Kristen noticed him waiting by himself in a heart made of candles, she immediately started tearing up (happily!) before Corey got down on one knee. This truly was the best day of both of their lives so far. With their bright future ahead, Kristen and Corey are now excited to begin the next chapter of their love story with all of their closest family and friends on 10.2.21.