Brecken and I first met about a week before Junior prom, as we were set up as a “date” for the dance by a mutual friend. I had recently gotten out of a pretty difficult relationship, and made it clear that I was only attending the dance as friends. I can recall multiple conversations with my mother about how nervous I was that there would be an expectation this would turn into something more. Anyone who has met me knows I’m an anxious person through and through, so my mom’s one-liner to ease my worries was “liv, he’s just a prom date”. Oh, how the universe had different plans. 

Brecken and I had a great time at junior prom, and while we didn’t jump into dating, we kept in touch and hung out regularly. Even while Brecken and I weren’t official, he was a strong force in my life. He brought me to church regularly and encouraged me to explore my relationship with God. On May 25th, 2016 we began the journey of a lifetime together. 

We dated all throughout senior year, and struggled with the anticipation of what was coming next. I was headed to Minnesota for college, and Brecken to the Air Force Academy. After much deliberation and praying we decided to give our relationship a shot. We did 6 weeks with no contact besides a few letters while he was in basic training, and that’s when I knew he was the one I was going to marry. We then went on to conquer 8 months of long distance, when I decided to move back to Colorado to be closer to him and my family. Even after I moved back we still had to learn to navigate life and dating as a military couple. Ultimately Brecken ended up leaving the academy, and if you know his story you know just how much time and thought went into that. 

We were forced to adapt yet again to our ever changing relationship, from a military to a “civilian” one. This did not come without its challenges, but I can confidently say we are only stronger because of it. 

On September 6th, 2020 Brecken proposed after I completed a 2 hour scavenger hunt - taking me on a journey through our relationship over the years. It was truly incredible to see various stages we went through, and just how much we have grown. 

We are absolutely thrilled to continue our adventures together for the rest of our lives, and forever grateful you could all be here with us marking the first day of forever. We appreciate each and everyone of you, and know that we are here today because of the numerous people that poured into us.