Ivan and Madeline's story (technically) started at Kyle Field when Madeline went looking for a semi-formal date in the fall of 2021. She consulted their dearly beloved friends, Noah and Emily Deahl, who pointed her to a VERY tall and handsome man further down the bleachers standing with his corps outfit. Ivan caught on to the meddling and decided he wasn't interested.

Come January of 2022, Madeline was itching to play match maker before graduation, so with the help of friends, she planned a blind date night coined "The Senior Scramble" with about 30 Senior Chi Omegas. Emily (Myers) Deahl decided to get crafty again, and picked Ivan out for Madeline. He took her to a mexican restaurant attached to a gas station called Polly's Cocina which, to Madeline's surprise, ended up having spectacular margaritas and became a routine spot for them. Afterwards, Madeline helped Ivan make a fire at a park in Bryan and they ate lighter fluid flavored smores and talked about their faith and big dreams. Nevertheless, she was hooked.

After nearly two years of Ivan's endless pursuit despite long distance, he decided to seal the deal, moved to Washington D.C. for the summer to be near Madeline, and proposed surrounded by her lovely friends at a stunning estate in Georgetown. The rest is history!

Praise God for his redemptive grace, that this marriage will be a testament to his unfailing love.