We first “met” in the dorms at The Ohio State University through a mutual friend, except we never actually spoke. We didn’t even make eye contact! A few weeks later, I asked our friend for Austin’s number and called him before we’d exchanged a single word. He was half asleep before work, but we made plans for the next week. Five years later, we’ve built a life together and have now been engaged for the next chapter.

Austin proposed during our backpacking trip in Zion National Park, but there’s one detail we’ll never forget: he kept insisting I put my pants back on for a “cute picture.” I finally did… just not all the way. So our engagement photos began with a breathtaking view and me unknowingly wearing my pants halfway up! It perfectly sums us up: adventurous, a little chaotic, and always laughing together.

We would put the money toward our wedding, allowing us to focus on celebrating with the people we love instead of worrying about finances. It would ease the burden on both of our families while helping us start our marriage on solid financial footing. Any money we save could go toward our first home, giving us the opportunity to build not only our wedding day, but the life we’ll share afterward.