Parker and Tara finished their time up at their middle school and went to the same high school together, where their relationship got to develop over the course of 4 years, as well as their interests and activities.

Throughout high school, they never took a break, even when it may have been tough. Through much convincing (*basically forcing*), Parker got Tara to audition for choirs, plays, and musicals with him, leading to them spending 2 years in choirs together and 3 years of main stage shows together (Select favorites include: Sweeney Todd, The Odd Couple, Shrek! The Musical, and Les Miserables)! These experiences together formed a lot of great memories that they share and enjoy looking back on. They say singing can really bring people together...

Outside of school settings, they got to experience traveling together, learning to drive, and of course, those summer swim meets that everyone loves! High school was truly a special time because they had one constant thing throughout what felt like 4 years of change... each other!

When it came time to move on to college, Parker and Tara didn't look at schools together intentionally. They knew that deciding on a school to attend was a very personal decision and shouldn't be taken lightly, which should explain why they ended up in San Antonio, Texas and Des Moines, Iowa. After numerous conversations during their senior year about whether or not to stay together, the decision was clear: staying together made more sense than breaking up, even if it meant long distance! They were up for the challenge, and after already 4 ½ years together, they were confident they could do it.

If you have ever talked to a couple who did long distance for a portion of their relationship, they have probably said something similar: it is hard, but so worth it in the end! Parker and Tara managed to do all 4 years of college long distance, seeing each other in either Iowa or Texas once a semester and meeting up over holiday breaks and summers (except for the one summer they continued long distance!). If anything, long distance made their relationship stronger. They were forced to communicate better than they ever had, and although encountered a couple challenges along the way, made it work through weekly FaceTime "dates" (which turned into nightly calls) and focusing on making sure the time spent together was well spent.

Registry

Please know that your presence is gift enough. We know life is busy and we are so honored that you would choose to spend your evening celebrating with us. Our registry is a work in progress always, but below you will find some gift options if you so choose :)