We both grew up as outdoorsy kids, spending weekends in Tellico Plains with our families, camping by the river and fishing in the same small town—yet somehow, we never crossed paths. Little did we know, God was saving the best for later. Years passed, and when we finally met, it was like finding the perfect bait for the big catch—we had so much in common!

Our first official date was at a Mexican restaurant (Tess’s absolute favorite, because…chips and salsa, obviously). But here’s where Brannon really reeled Tess in: he showed up with a Dr Pepper tumbler. Yes, you read that right. A Dr Pepper tumbler. Tess immediately thought, “This guy gets me,” and knew right then and there that he was the one. Over queso and tacos, we laughed, talked, and wondered how we’d gone so long without finding each other.