How We Met

They met “at the library” — or at least that’s what they like to say.

In all seriousness, they met on the Hinge dating app. After matching with each other, Laren sent Alex the first message, which read:

“I’m not great at these opening liners. But here’s my best cheesy pick-up line:

🧀🛻🧀🛻🧀🛻🧀”

Alex was hooked by Laren’s unPUNlievable skills. A few days later, he asked her out on their first date.

They went to the Brewer’s Kettle in Kernersville on October 23, 2023, and talked the night away. Their date was briefly interrupted by Alex’s friend and mentor, Sergio, who quickly realized it was a first date and came over to embarrass him. Sergio lovingly teased, roasted, and told stories about Alex as a kid.

Laren thought, “If a cool guy like Sergio is picking on Alex in such a loving way, there must be something special about him.”

Their deep conversations continued, and they enjoyed each other’s company so much that they didn’t want the night to end. In fact, they closed the bar down and were kindly asked to leave so the staff could go home.

They exchanged phone numbers, curious to see where things might lead — and both left knowing this was the start of something amazing.

The Adventures

Over the past two years, Alex and Laren have shared so much love and adventure together. From joyful trips to Texas and beyond, to the heartache of losing loved ones, they’ve leaned on each other every step of the way.

Their journey has been full of laughter, late-night conversations, and a deepening love that continues to grow stronger every day.

The Proposal

On September 20, 2025, Alex told Laren to wear cute and comfy clothes. He had planned a hike and picnic at Flat Rock in Boone, NC. What Laren didn’t know was that he was planning to propose.

That morning, Alex made beignets for breakfast while she got ready and packed snacks for the day. He had spent weeks restoring and learning to drive his grandfather’s 1957 Thunderbird convertible in preparation for the big moment.

But as every great love story goes — a few surprises awaited them.

The car broke down in North Wilkesboro, and Alex’s grandparents and mom came to the rescue (and to discreetly help save the proposal plans). Seven hours later, the car was running again.

Still determined, Alex insisted on continuing their journey. The car could only manage 25–35 mph up the mountain, but their spirits stayed high. After all, they were together — and that’s what mattered most.

They finally reached Boone (with his grandparents and mom following close behind), but the car broke down again. After a quick fix, Alex decided to head home. Even then, he was still determined to propose — he just needed a new plan.

They arrived back at Laren’s house around 1 a.m. While she went through her nighttime routine, Alex set up the picnic spread in her backyard under the stars.

He led her outside to the scene and opened the picnic basket he had lovingly restored. Inside was a bouquet of LEGO roses he had built himself. Hidden inside one of the roses was a custom ring box.

He opened it, got down on one knee, and asked, “Laren, will you marry me?”

Her response: “Absolutely, YES!”

The Next Chapter

Alex and Laren are overjoyed to begin this next chapter together and to celebrate with all of you who have been part of their story so far.

Thank you for the love, laughter, and memories you’ve shared — and for joining in the joy of what’s to come.