During the early stages of college Anthony and Courtney connected through mutual friends. At first, Courtney tried to friend zone him, due to wanting to enjoy the college life. Very quickly though her heart was won over due to Anthony's polite, extremely caring personality. The two quickly hit it off and then headed home for winter break from school. Even from so far away, the two fell in love through a phone. When reconnected their bond grew stronger, friend groups merged, and they began to build a life together. They shared common interests of hiking, lazy days, and dogs. Anthony brought home their first pup, Copper and a year later Courtney adopted Charlie. More and more pieces started to fall into place and they carried one another through graduation in 2021. After school, Courtney moved back to Illinois to catch up on much needed family time and Anthony began an incredible job in Virginia. The two once again stayed connected through long Face Time calls and weekend trips halfway across the country. After a year, the two wanted to truly begin their lives together and Courtney moved out to Virginia and started her full time teaching career at a middle school. A couple months later, Anthony surprised himself and Courtney by proposing one Saturday morning when they woke up. It has been a journey of always working toward never having to spend time apart again, and the two are so thrilled that is now the case. The next step in the journey is with all of the most important people in their lives coming together to celebrate their love. #hitchedbyhaden