In the Fall of 2017, fate brought Syriah (Sophomore) and Craig (Senior) together at Albion College. Introduced by their roommates, they instantly became friends.
Their connection was deepened in the Spring when they both sat next to each other in Dr. Shoene's World Globalization Sociology class. The two spent countless nights studying together at the Kellogg Center. Craig often retaught the class material to Syriah, who, in turn, would outscore him on exams - a friendly competition between the two.
One day during a cancelled class, Craig invited Syriah to lunch. What began as a simple gesture of friendship ended with a memorable kiss, despite Syriah's unfortunate sushi-induced hives.
Their relationship took a significant turn when Craig invited Syriah to his fraternity formal in Windsor, Canada. Syriah met Craigs entire family, earning the nickname Dream Daughter-in-Law from Craigs dad. Even with Craigs graduation looming, they decided to give their relationship a try.
The Summer of 2017 tested their commitment with a long-distance relationship. Craig in Chelsea and Syriah in Manistee managed their distance, knowing they'd be closer when Syriah returned to Albion. The distance wasn't easy, but their bond grew stronger.
In 2019, a pivotal moment occurred during Syriah's senior winter break. A hike with Craig and Morgan ended with Syriah breaking her Tibia and Fibula, resulting in surgery on New Years Eve. Craig's care and support, including administering her daily post-surgery shots, solidified their relationship.
Unable to return to her second-story apartment, Syriah stayed with Craig and his family while recovering. Craig drove her to physical therapy and classes, with the help of Dr. Schoene, symbolizing the full circle of their journey together.
Spring of 2019, Syriah graduated from Albion and returned to Manistee, juggling a full-time job and graduate school. Still, the two faced struggle of a distance relationship. Despite the challenges, they persisted in their love.
In March 2020, just before the pandemic lockdown, Syriah visited Craig, leading to an extended stay in Chelsea as the world shut down. Quarantined together for three months, they adapted to living together, finding joy in activities like Tiger King, TikTok, biking, and gardening.
Syriah eventually moved back to Manistee, graduated with her Masters degree, and became a School Psychologist. Despite the ongoing distance, their relationship remained strong. Three years of long-distance taught them resilience and dedication.
In 2022, Syriah and Craig took a significant step in their relationship and moved in to their first townhouse together in Lake Orion. Now, the two own a home together in Manistee and are reunited with their beloved dog, Roscoe.
Over the years, they treasured their time together, taking memorable vacations. They have traveled to New York, Texas, Colorado, Florida, Wyoming, Montana, Idaho, and Costa Rica, creating unforgettable memories.
After eight years filled with love, challenges, and growth, Syriah and Craig are excited to embark on the next phase of their journey: marriage. The two look forward to many more adventures and continuing to explore the world, building a life full of joy, love, and shared experiences.
They are thrilled to celebrate their love with you and cant wait to see what the future holds!