Tanner's Point of View

Junior year of college, I was in a season of singleness, not looking or wanting anything about that to change until one short conversation with a beautiful girl on November 13, 2021. My roommates and I arrived late to a friends surprise birthday party. After making small talk with friends, I was quickly introduced to Molly. Prior to this conversation, I never officially met Molly, I just followed her on Instagram and knew she was quite the CrossFit athlete, absolutely beautiful, and was likely already in a serious relationship; therefore, I didn't get my hopes up. After that night, I figured Molly was just being nice, and convinced myself to not think anything of our conversation together until a few days later, she messaged me on Instagram with details about the marathon that she ran in high school that I had expressed interest in during our conversation together (so smooth Molly.) As small talk continued for a few days, it gradually turned into weeks. I eventually got her number and asked her to go to coffee. What was supposed to be a simple coffee date quickly turned into a four hour conversation that left me wanting to spend even more time with her. About two months and multiple dates later, I finally made things official. Over the past few years, Molly has become the biggest blessing God could have ever given me. The way I can make her laugh, the way she loves me and everyone around her, the way she strives to be better in everything she does every single day, the way she loves the Lord, and so much more. If you know Molly at all, then you know how she makes a place better just by standing in the room. She is truly my best friend and I couldn’t imagine my life without her by my side. Molly, I can’t wait to do this thing called life with you, FOREVER!

Molly's Point of View

Way before I even met Tanner, I vividly remember seeing him multiple times around campus and at a few Campus Ministry events at Grand Valley. Every time I saw him, I always made sure to tell my friends how cute I thought he was whenever I saw him in passing. We both unexpectedly showed up to one of our mutual friends birthday party. Not even 5 minutes into the party, another mutual friend of ours quickly introduced us to each other. After just a short 5 minute conversation together, I couldn't wait to tell my girls about our interaction. I was convinced a couple days later after the party to message Tanner over Instagram. Within just a couple days, he got my number and asked me out on a date. Our first date was at Roots coffee shop in GR and it lasted over four hours. Almost two months after our first date, Tanner asked me to be his girlfriend on the Blue Bridge in GR. Dating Tanner, I've found my best friend and my life partner. He makes me smile the biggest, laugh the hardest, and leads me closer to Jesus. I still can't believe in just a couple months I will be calling this incredible man my husband.