It all started near the UW-Milwaukee Campus at Roast -- or at least it was supposed to. Marissa had other plans, like going back to bed (classic Marissa!). Tyler, undeterred by the initial hiccup, drove over 45 minutes one way again the next day, for their rescheduled coffee date. Fortunately, second chances are sometimes the sweetest. Little did they know, those four hours spent sitting and talking would mark the beginning of something extraordinary. This first date turned into a week of dates, and then another, and another. Time seemed to fly, but every moment was filled with laughter, shared stories, and a growing connection that neither of them could ignore.

After a long flight to Florida that day Tyler had prepared a very special evening along the Florida coast during a seemingly routine visit to visit his sister Kaylie. The proposal started much like how Tyler first met Marissa, with her asking to cancel to take a nap. Everyone in Kaylie's apartment shouted no and so Marissa got up to get ready for a perfect night. After a long drive to Clearwater Beach, FL from Kaylie's apartment Tyler and Marissa finally arrived at a beautiful restaurant by the shore. Little did she know that the evening was about to take an unexpected turn -- although she should have, Tyler's never ate that fast in his life.

After Tyler got his fries stolen by a bird, and yelled at a pirate ship floating by we finished a delightful dinner with the sound of waves in the background, we went to the beach's shoreline to take some pictures with Kaylie and Emily that we had been planning since we decided to go to Florida. Marissa was none the wiser as Tyler grew more and more nervous by the moment.

As we stepped onto the sandy shores, Marissa was greeted by the most enchanting scene. Tyler's sister, Kaylie, and her best friend, Emily, had been busy behind the scenes, orchestrating a moment that would stay etched in our hearts forever. The beach was adorned with candles, blankets, and flowers, creating the perfect spot for a perfect moment.

With a backdrop of the setting sun, surrounded by the gentle lull of the ocean waves, Tyler dropped to one knee. It was a breathtaking moment frozen in time, captured by Kaylie and Emily, who had turned into our impromptu photographers. The air was filled with love and excitement as Tyler asked the question that would change our lives. With joy in our hearts and the sound of applause from the few beach goers standing nearby, Marissa said 'Yes.'

It was a proposal beyond our wildest dreams, filled with love, thoughtfulness, and the magic of the ocean. Thanks to Kaylie and Emily, our engagement became a beautiful story woven into the fabric of our journey. From that night on, the beach held a special place in our hearts, reminding us of the day Tyler asked me to be his forever, surrounded by the love of family, friends, and the serenity of the sea.

Tyler and Marissa are living together and spend their time watching movies and TV together, taking care of their cat Georgia, playing games, and taking plenty of time for naps.

Marissa loves Tyler's intelligence, kindness, silliness, enthusiasm for cleaning and especially his patience.

Tyler loves Marissa's silliness, love of animals, delicious cooking, thoughtfulness, and of course, her need for sleep.

In the future Marissa will work as an administrator for an assisted living facility and Tyler will work as a mechanical engineer. They plan to have kids once they have a home and are settled in. They are excited to continue to spend the rest of their lives together filled with lots of joy and love

As we reflect on the incredible journey that led us to this moment, we are overwhelmed with gratitude for the love and support we've received from our cherished friends and family.

First and foremost, a heartfelt thank you to Tyler's sister, Kaylie, and her best friend, Emily. Your thoughtfulness and creativity turned a beautiful evening into a fairytale. The sunset beach proposal, complete with a beautiful setup and the soothing sound of the waves, was beyond anything we could have imagined. Your efforts and the stunning photographs have gifted us memories that will last a lifetime.

To our families, thank you for your unwavering support and for being the foundation upon which our love has flourished. Your encouragement and joy have made this journey even more special.

Our friends, near and far, your love has been a constant source of warmth. Whether you've been a part of our daily lives or connected with us from a distance, your presence is felt and appreciated.

To everyone who has shared in our joy, sent well wishes, and contributed to the magic of our engagement, thank you. Your love has made this moment even more unforgettable.

As we look forward to the next chapter in our lives, we carry with us the love and support of each and every one of you. We are truly blessed to have such amazing people surrounding us.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Tyler and Marissa