Lanae and Sean's paths crossed during their junior year of college. The two were introduced at a Gopher football game by mutual friends who, sensing a potential connection, encouraged them to exchange contact information. By the end of the game, their first spark had ignited.

Their first date followed soon after at Annie's Parlour, where they shared milkshakes and fries. What began as a casual outing quickly blossomed into a meaningful relationship. They discovered that their shared values in faith, family, and future aspirations made them an ideal match. However, just six months into their relationship, the pandemic caused them to navigate the challenges of long-distance as both moved back home to be with family. During this time, phone calls and FaceTimes became the foundation of their connection, strengthening their bond.

As their relationship evolved, so did their careers. Sean graduated with a degree in Finance and Accounting, embarking on a career at Kaleidoscope, a tech company focused on connecting donor scholarships with students. Meanwhile, Lanae pursued her passion for medicine, earning a degree in Cellular and Organismal Physiology before being accepted to the University of Minnesota’s Medical School Duluth Campus.

Though Lanae spent her first two years of medical school in Duluth while Sean worked in Minneapolis, their relationship endured the distance. As she completed her final two years of medical school in Minneapolis, the couple reunited in the city, where they have since built their life together.

Sean proposed in December of 2023, near a frozen lake while the two were vacationing in Crosby-Ironton and Nisswa. Lanae knew something was up when during their hike Sean was walking at a fast pace, and that Sean had suggested a walk in the first place.

Lanae is currently in the process of applying for an Internal Medicine Residency, which will serve as the next phase of her medical training. They expect to learn where she will be placed in late March, and are excited to see where this next chapter of their journey will take them for the next three years.

Through every challenge and triumph, Lanae and Sean have supported one another, and are eager to continue their adventure together as they prepare to say "I do."

Photos