Ryan and Tori's story starts back in 2016 during the second semester at Texas Christian University. They walked into a small criminal justice class of about twenty people. They sat across from one another at a big conference table, never having been in a class together and never meeting before. Tori remembers noticing Ryan for the first time, sporting a backwards Yeti hat and a Sig Ep t-shirt - she was instantly intrigued.

The two began chatting here and there during class, often bonding over how none of it made sense. Sure enough, other students felt the same and a study group formed over GroupMe. They would all meet at the library to study together, which allowed Ryan and Tori to continue getting to know each other. After some time, they realized how many mutual friends they had and wondered how they had never met before. Soon enough, Tori decided to try and talk to Ryan outside of the group chat, but she didn't have his phone number. Instead, she messaged him separately on GroupMe which quickly led to Ryan giving her his number. The two continued to talk and see each other, and then Ryan asked Tori to go to his fraternity formal called Red Garter. Afterwards, it was clear Ryan and Tori really liked one another and wanted to pursue a relationship together.

The next few years at TCU consisted of many more formals, football games, study sessions at the library, and so many fun memories together. Before Ryan graduated, he accepted a job in Austin and moved at the end of the summer in 2017. The two were thrilled as it was only a three hour drive from TCU where Tori would be for senior year. Once Tori graduated, she moved back to Illinois and the long distance began. After about a year and a half, Tori moved down to Austin and the two were only a twenty minute drive away versus a two and a half hour flight.

Fast forward about two years, Ryan and Tori moved in together and picked up their dog, Bentley, from Ryan's parents. Another year and a new house later, Ryan knew it was time to ask Tori's dad for her hand in marriage. Ryan began his search for a ring and spent months planning the proposal, as well as a surprise engagement party. On November 4th, 2023 Tori thought the two of them were meeting some friends for dinner and drinks, only to be completely shocked at the proposal Ryan had set up overlooking the Austin skyline. Afterwards, Tori again was fooled and thought they were going to a small dinner, but instead they were greeted by family and friends with nothing but excitement.

Their story continues to be written and they are looking forward to celebrating their special day with everyone!!