Theirs is a story of how God’s plan and timing are better than our own. Nick and Melissa went on a date years ago. Neither can remember exactly when or even why it never continued past a dinner or two. However, God knew their paths would cross again when the time was right.

Nick and Melissa's “second” first date was June 15, 2023 over dinner in Sioux Falls. Melissa was shocked to hear that Nick was preparing for a camping trip that weekend that involved sleeping all alone in the Badlands under the stars. Despite thinking he might be a little crazy, Melissa decided to keep answering when Nick would call.

Over their 22 months together, Nick and Melissa have logged many miles on the road. Many of those miles were spent on I-29 visiting each other. If Nick was coming to Sioux Falls for the weekend, Melissa would drive up to Brookings during the week or vice versa. Living 53 miles apart meant their time together was intentional and planned out. There was always a working list of places to eat, movies to watch, and events for their nieces/nephews to attend to make the most of their time together.

While this kept the schedule full, Melissa and Nick still found time to keep traveling like they've always done. Prior to their wedding day, they've made lifelong memories at:

-Sedona, AZ (2023 Fickbohm Family Christmas)

-Terry Peak, SD (2024 Klein Family Skiing Trip)

-Black Hills, SD (1st Anniversary Trip)

- Omaha, NE (Visit the Henriksens)

-Cancun, MX (Shawn & Kate's Birthday Bash)

As in any relationship, Melissa & Nick have learned and grown to know each other well. Melissa has studied hard to learn Nicks favorite sports teams, who plays for the Jacks, & what time soccer starts in England on Saturday mornings. Meanwhile, Nick has learned what seashells you can find in different parts of the world, what makes them unique, and the best way to preserve them once home. They have learned that checking off bucket list items are more fun together like Melissa's first time ice skating, Nick's first time snorkeling, and chasing the Northern Lights.

They are excited to join their lives together, to start this exciting new chapter as husband & wife, and to continue checking off the bucket list!