Following my job as a camp photographer in Northern California, I (Sara) returned to Phoenix where I applied for a job at Trader Joe’s. One of my best friends Gabby worked there at the time, and it was the opportunity that seemed to bring the most peace. This is where our story begins :)

I met Maxwell on a training shift. He was really cute, very kind, patient, and worked quietly. He listened and understood how to make people feel seen and valued. I knew right away that he would be a friend of mine. Over several shared shifts and lunches, a spark grew. He would walk me to my car after late shifts where we would talk for hours. That spark transformed into feelings where we just wanted to spend all of our time together, which grew into little 'friend' dates at the rock climbing gym, baseball games, and movie nights. Eventually a "do you want to try dating and see if it works out?" was asked, to which we both agreed to try…

almost 3 years later, we think it's safe to say that it worked out all right :)

The Lord has shaped both our hearts and played such an incredible role in our relationship. He brought us together at Trader Joe’s to begin, then brought Maxwell to Himself and showed him what true Love looks like. In our relationship, God has consistently and reliably made a habit of showing Himself to us, and for that, I am eternally grateful. Summarizing all of this in a silly website blurb doesn't give the space to truly tell all of our story. But to each and every one of you who has played a role in our relationship- no matter how small- we thank you.

We are learning how to love each other better every day, and discovering how to love and serve the Lord in all we do. As time marches on, we hope to lean on our people to be supported, encouraged, and glean wisdom from. Thank you for being a part of the next chapter :)

Maxwell knew he wanted to marry her, he had picked the most beautiful ring, and he knew he wanted it all to be simple and special…so he got to work planning a proposal.

Unbeknownst to Sara, he worked with her friend Natalie to plan a girl's night with all of her local friends. Sara agreed and spent that evening chatting about the future, catching up with her girls, and getting her nails done. She suspected nothing :)

The following morning, Maxwell (ring in his pocket) drove Sara to the Phoenix Zoo where they met their friends Ben and Natalie. That morning, Maxwell mentioned that he wanted to look nice because we had never done a double date before, and Sara happily obliged.

An hour or so later, after many animal viewings and a visit with the goats, Maxwell led Sara to their favorite little spot in the zoo: The alligator gazebo. While she tried to spot them in the murky water, Maxwell got down on his knee and asked:

"Sara Grace Hartman, will you marry me?"

Many exuberant giggles and excited tears later, Sara said yes! Of course, I will marry you!

The rest has led us to here :)