When you glance at a couple’s love story, you often only see the highlight reel—the smiles, the milestones, the moments captured on camera. But behind every beautiful photo and sweet memory is a deeper journey—one filled with unexpected turns, quiet growth, and countless shared experiences. This little story invites you into the real story of how Makena and Ty became not just the people, but the couple we know and love today.

It was a warm September morning in 2018 when fate stepped in quietly—no fireworks, just two college freshmen boarding a bus to a new student retreat. Neither Makena nor Ty was looking for anything more than new friends and a fresh start to the wild ride of college life. But by the end of the weekend, they had spent almost every moment together—laughing, bonding, and navigating the awkwardness of early adulthood with surprising ease.

On the final morning of the retreat, Makena—blissfully unaware that Ty was not a morning person—invited him to a sunrise hike. Ty, despite his sleepy protests, agreed. As they sat side by side atop the mountain watching the sun rise, something unspoken began to shift. A new beginning was quietly unfolding.

As the days turned into semesters, and semesters into years, their connection only deepened. They supported each other through the rollercoaster of school and collegiate softball, leaning on one another through every high and low. What began as quick coffee dates turned into hours-long study sessions, and movie nights evolved into spontaneous adventures through Denver and the Colorado mountain towns they came to love. Their shared memories grew to include a mission trip to Mexico, a detour to Moab, and countless camping trips under the stars. Somewhere along the way, they both realized—this wasn’t just college romance. This was something real and lasting.

Then came graduation—a bittersweet ending and an exciting new beginning. As they faced one of life’s big questions—What now?—they chose each other again. The answer became Las Vegas. So they packed their lives into boxes, traded the snowy peaks of Colorado for the glittering lights of the Strip, and embraced a whole new chapter. Together, they tackled new jobs, new routines, and new dreams—welcoming a spirited little Corgi pup, traveling to California and Utah, and learning the hard truth that adulthood doesn’t come with summer breaks.

Which brings us to today—Makena and Ty, a little older, a little wiser, and just as full of laughter and love as ever. Along the way, they’ve discovered some essential truths: one doesn’t love cooking, the other avoids laundry at all costs—and yet, they’ve built a life that works beautifully in their own way. They’ve stood by each other through joy, through growth, and through every twist life has thrown at them.

On April 19th, surrounded by the beauty of a waterfall they often ride RZRs to in Utah, Ty got down on one knee and asked the question that would bring us all here today.

Makena and Ty’s story isn’t just one of love—it’s one of partnership, resilience, laughter, and faith in what’s to come. Their journey has only just begun, and with each other by their side, they’re ready to take on every adventure, every challenge, and every beautiful and wonderful moment ahead.

They are so thankful for the love, support, and encouragement that has surrounded them along the way—and even more grateful to have their closest people beside them as they step into this next chapter together.

M&T

Wedding Day