Our first date took place just days before the world shut down, though our story together goes back quite a bit. We both started at the State University of New York - College of Environmental Science and Forestry (SUNY-ESF) in the Fall of 2018, and although our paths crossed many times before, neither of us noticed the other until we both joined the Graduate Student Government in 2019. Justin remembers Jacki as beautiful, diligent, and helpful, while Jacki remembers Justin as handsome, attentive, and opinionated. Justin finally built up the courage to go talk to Jacki, after being encouraged by Daniel Hong (groomsman), at a graduate student event. We hit it off and went on our first date the the very next day; February 29th, 2020 (leap day).

Just a short drive from Syracuse is the gorgeous Fingerlakes wine region. Overlooking Seneca Lake at Lamoreaux Landing Wine Cellars with a glass of the Finger Lakes famous Dry Riesling and 76 West Bordeaux Blend, Justin pulled a ring out of his coat pocket. While we had designed the ring together, Jacki wasn't expecting the proposal since Justin had lied (!!!) and said the ring wouldn't come in time for our excursion to the Fingerlakes. After putting off wedding planning to finish our PhDs, we are excited to finally share our big day with you!