We met in the fall of 2020 during our freshman year at Washington and Lee University when we happened to live on the same floor in the same dorm. We quickly became part of the same friend group. Our friendship took off when Tyler became the designated driver to church on Sundays. Getting to know each other as we served in the church together helped us to develop a strong foundation on friendship. (It also helped that Tyler tutored Sion through Physics 1 & 2!)

Friendship soon turned into feelings, but it wasn't until a period of prayer that we began to date in Oct 2021. On April 6, 2024, Tyler popped the question and Sion said "Yes!"

Tyler proposed at a small gazebo on a hill located on the university's back campus. In the weeks leading up to the proposal, Tyler asked Sion to visit the gazebo periodically so she wouldn’t suspect anything on the big day. To make sure Sion dressed up without raising suspicion, Tyler and a few friends planned a senior photo shoot.

Funnily enough, on the way to the gazebo, Sion was not happy. It was a cold and windy April day, and despite the sunny sky, the temperature was in the 50s. She tried really hard to convince Tyler not to go to the gazebo, but Tyler was determined to see the views from there on that particular day.

Tyler did everything he could to make sure Sion made it to the gazebo without turning around. Eventually, he even carried her up the hill on his back!

The gazebo was decorated with photos from throughout their relationship, which were vigorously flapping in the wind as they approached the location. Soon after arriving, Tyler got down on one knee and asked Sion to marry him.

Who made the first move? How?

Tyler made the first move when he asked Sion to dinner one night as he dropped her off at her room. This only started the ball rolling, because it wasn't until 8 months later that we officially started dating.

What's your favorite activity together?

We love doing anything together! Particularly anything that has to do with good food and the outdoors. Whatever the activity, the longer the car drive the better. Some of our favorite conversations have been on the car ride to some other adventure.

What do you like most about each other?

Sion: I love Tyler's genuine and honest heart. His desire to connect with people sincerely in a sea of small talk and his heart to serve those around him are what first drew me to him. Then, as we became friends, it was Tyler's wholehearted, life transforming love for Jesus Christ that kept me close. Plus, I also love Tyler's laugh!

Tyler: I love Sion's creative and exuberant attitude toward life and her friends. There is never a boring moment with Sion, and she often breaks through people's guards and becomes a blessing in unexpected and powerful ways. Sion is such a beautiful and lovely daughter of God.