Brandon and Whitney first met in October of 2024 on a brief break from his deployment. Sheila (Brandon's mom and Whitney's high school welding instructor) had reached out to Whitney about painting his Halloween costume, as he was gone and couldn't do it himself. She accepted, and through the project, the pair got to know each other and eventually attended the same Halloween party and scare park.

From there, Whitney and Brandon saw each other every weekend. They enjoyed hunting dates, quiet nights in, and Whitney's home-cooked meals (a welcome change from bachelor cooking). Brandon began asking Whitney to be his girlfriend, but she held herself to high standards and wanted to be sure he met them before committing. Over time, Brandon showed himself to be a kind and trustworthy person. By November 14th, Whitney felt confident that he was truly someone worth letting into her life. So when he asked her again that day, she said yes.

Not long after, Brandon moved back to New Mexico and the couple began dating long-distance. Late FaceTime calls and laughter kept the two close, but visits home from Brandon over Christmas and Valentine's Day were always long-awaited.

At the end of May, Whitney visited Brandon in New Mexico for the first time. He took her around the Santa Fe area and showed her the vibrant and thriving art world that the region offers. On June 2nd, he brought her to the immersive art installation Meow Wolf. It was there that Brandon picked a secluded exhibit and asked Whitney to marry him. With no hesitation, she once again said yes.

Brandon and Whitney are eager to start a new chapter together shortly after their wedding here in Iowa. They plan to move Whitney to New Mexico at the end of 2025. Once there, Brandon will continue serving his country in the military and Whitney will pursue her art full time.

We are so thankful that you and your family have come together to help us celebrate the beginning of our life together. We look forward to seeing you all on October 25th!