We first matched on a dating app in the spring of 2017.

A few weeks later, Seth asked me out on a date to the John Ball Zoo. From the moment we met, it just clicked—we laughed together so easily, shared a similar sense of humor, and felt a real connection. Life took us on different paths for a while, but we stayed in touch and remained close friends over the next four years.

By the winter of 2021, our friendship had turned into something more. The more time we spent together, the more we realized how much we truly loved about each other. I even started telling my friends—half-joking, half-serious—that I was going to marry Seth.

As the years passed, we grew even closer. Through every challenge and every joyful moment, it became clear: we were meant to be—not just as partners, but as best friends.

Then, on September 14, 2024, Seth surprised me with a trip back to the zoo where it all started. I had no idea what was coming—and was completely shocked when he led me to the same spot we’d walked through years before and proposed.

It was the most beautiful full-circle moment.

Now, we’re so excited to spend the rest of our lives together!

Photos