We met in 2017 at the University of Orono studying Electrical and Computer Engineering. It wasn't until 2018 that we started talking to each other about something other than circuit analysis and statistics homework. On December 5, 2018 we began officially dating and it wasn't long after that we both knew we were going to spend the rest of our lives together. We both graduated and began working in Kittery.


In December of 2021, Jake planned a surprise weekend getaway trip to Stowe, VT. While in Stowe, we stayed in a small cabin where Jake put on his chef's hat and whipped up a wonderful breakfast for the two of us to share. We made our way to a small farm where we were taking a horse drawn sleigh ride (ARE YOU KIDDING ME?!) Once the sleigh horses were ready, we were off. If you've never been to Stowe, add it to your bucket list because it is one of the most beautiful places I've ever been.


The sleigh driver asked if we wanted to stop to take photos and brought us to a cute gazebo tucked away by a stream. We got out and she continued with the antsy horses while we took in the beautiful surroundings. Since it was only the two of us and we didn't have any way to snap a handful of photos quickly before the driver returned, Jake set up his phone to catch a video for us to grab screenshots from. Once Stephanie turned around to see the small stream through the snow, Jake got down on one knee. When Stephanie turned around, Jake barely had enough time to ask her to spend the rest of their lives together before she was sobbing yes in his arms. The sleigh driver returned, in on the secret surprise, and was the first of many congratulations to come.