We met in a DPT program during an icebreaker where we had to find someone whose shoe matched ours, making us instant “solemates.” From the very beginning, it felt like we’d known each other forever. What started as a coincidence became the greatest love story of our lives. We spent a year and a half loving each other long distance before moving across the country to finally be together. Now we’re building a beautiful life together, grateful that one small moment changed our lives forever.

We’ll never forget the day we got engaged in Joshua Tree, California. We spent the day exploring one of the most beautiful places we’ve ever been and documented every moment on a Polaroid. That night, under a sky full of stars, surrounded by string lights and candles, we began our next chapter together. It wasn’t just the start of our engagement, though. It was the moment we promised to choose each other, that day and every day after. It’s a memory we’ll carry with us for the rest of our lives.

This prize would help us create the wedding of our dreams and bring all of our loved ones together. Since we started our relationship long distance, our families are spread across the country, and some may not otherwise be able to afford the trip. Any remaining funds would go toward our dream honeymoon, where we can continue doing what we love most— exploring new places, making unforgettable memories, and celebrating the start of forever together.