Steven and Lakin met in college at Kansas State University. They were part of the same friend group and spent much time together. They did not know this connection would lead them to spend their lives together.

Before they started dating, Lakin thought Steven just hung out with her roommates. Everything changed one night after they visited their favorite bar, Porters. Steven walked Lakin home, and from then on, they started hanging out more. Even with their chemistry, it took a bit for Steven to ask Lakin out officially.

As their relationship developed, they found common ground in their agricultural backgrounds and similar values despite being from different parts of the state. They worked together on various agricultural tasks, including moving Steven's cattle, and Lakin introduced him to her family's crop production in Southeast Kansas. Also, they share a love for their two Australian Shepherds, who joined them on many adventures. These moments drew them closer and tested their patience with one another.

They celebrated significant milestones, including graduating from Kansas State. After graduation, Steven moved back to Southwest Kansas, while Lakin stayed in Manhattan. A year later, Lakin made a big decision—she jokingly called it a leap for a "dumb boy"— and moved to Southwest Kansas to be with Steven. It was a change for her, but she embraced it and was happy to avoid the five-hour drive.

In October 2024, in the town where they met, Steven finally asked Lakin to marry him. After all, they do not call it Manhappiness for nothing! And the rest is history.

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