Much to Zach's mom's dismay, Zach and Susie met the new-fashioned way-- online! Susie always joked that she would marry an Olympian, and her eyes lit up when she saw DC Trident and Olympic prospect, Zach Apple, pop up on her screen. Zach was drawn to Susie's profound beauty and her one-of-a-kind personality (but was also maybe a bit intrigued by the fact that this random girl knew what the International Swimming League was).

They started hanging out in January 2020 and by March, Susie had effectively moved herself into Zach's apartment (they had to go into COVID lockdown sooomewhere). They got to know each other quickly and realized that their relationship was rapidly becoming something special. Susie fell in love with Zach's hearty laugh, his positive outlook on life, and his authentic and considerate personality. Zach fell in love with Susie's strong will, bubbly spirit, and her compassion for others.

Zach proposed to Susie in Rocky Mountain National Park during a long weekend trip they embarked on in March 2023. Equipped with hiking boots, snow pants, and handwarmers, it was perfectly ~them~ and they wouldn't have changed a thing about it!

Zach and Susie's first four years together have been filled with some incredible memories, and they are excited for all of the years and memories to come.