It all began with the Newsboys Strike of 1899...

Ryan and Michaela met in 2019 while performing in a production of *Newsies* with Music Theatre Denton. After the show concluded, Ryan moved to Denton to attend the University of North Texas, the same school as Michaela.

Like many college students, the challenges of 2020 affected their lives significantly. During this time, they lived with Michaela’s parents in Wichita Falls for a short period of time while studying online, followed by a brief stay with Ryan’s parents.

Due to work and school commitments, Michaela moved back to Denton to complete her studies in the Spring of 2022, while Ryan finished his degree in the Fall of 2022. They finally reunited in 2023, renting their first apartment together.

On March 16, 2024, Ryan proposed to Michaela at the Grapevine Botanical Gardens. He planned the entire event with their friend Sierra, the officiant for their wedding, disguising it as a family photoshoot. Ryan presented Michaela with a ring, designed months earlier by her using diamonds from her maternal grandmother's wedding set, and was met with the enthusiastic response, “It’s about damn time!”

Ryan and Michaela are both excited about their wedding, and look forward to sharing their special day with friends and family.