It all started back in high school, where two people from different towns—Christian from Lapeer and Samantha from Oxford—were brought together by mutual friends. Even though we went to separate schools, fate had a way of making our paths cross. We first started talking during spring break of our senior year. Christian tried three times to get Sam’s attention, and on April 11, 2022, after a little persistence, he finally asked her to be his girlfriend.

We were both athletes, sharing a love for sports that was woven into their everyday lives. Sam was a cheer captain, and Christian played football and hockey, but their shared passion for lacrosse was the common ground where we grew even closer. They attended each other’s proms and made a point to be at each other’s lacrosse games whenever possible. Our senior year was full of unforgettable memories.

From the day they met, sports have consumed our lives. Whether it's watching NFL, NHL, MLB, or cheering on our teams, we do not miss a game. Sam’s passion for sports has evolved into coaching middle school cheer and varsity lacrosse at Oxford, and now Christian has joined her as the assistant lacrosse coach. It’s a dream come true to be able to coach together, and every season, we’re reminded of how much sports have shaped our bond.

After graduation, Sam headed to college, while Christian jumped into the workforce. But even with the change in pace, they continued to create memories together. From Michigan basketball games to Red Wings games, their first year together was filled with adventure. One of our most memorable trips was in March 2023 during Sam's spring break. They visited Christian’s parents in Florida, where we spent our days at Disney, Universal, took a helicopter ride, and enjoyed the beach. Later that year, they enjoyed Tigers games, camping up north, and countless other adventures.

The year 2024 brought more excitement—parties, concerts, pickleball, and their annual family cabin trip. Sam graduated from college, and together they supported each other at sporting events, from Christian cheering on Johnathan at football games to Sam coaching cheer. But there was one special moment that Sam had no idea was unfolding while she was away.

While Sam and part of her family were in Florida for the Oxford Band's Disney trip, Christian stayed home, meeting with Sam’s dad, Tom, to ask for his blessing to marry his daughter. Little did Sam know, she was busy in Disney, plotting wedding plans, completely unaware of what was happening back home.

Then, on November 30, 2024, after a full day of watching the Michigan vs. Ohio State game in their pajamas at Christian’s house, Christian asked Sam the most important question of their lives: "Will you marry me?" Sam, in utter disbelief, took 45 minutes to process what had just happened. She thought it was all a joke and even called Ashlynn to double-check that it was real. Christian had already asked her dad for permission, and now, the rest was history.

From high school to their proposal, every chapter of our story has been filled with love, laughter, and plenty of unforgettable moments. We are so excited to begin this new adventure together and can't wait to share it with all of you!

S&C