Michael, originally from California, moved to Holland, Michigan, in 2018 for a career opportunity. Emma was in her sophomore year in college at Grand Valley State University. They had no idea that in only two years, they would meet each other. Michael and Emma met at the New Holland Brewing Company in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Just 3 weeks before the COVID-19 pandemic. They made a strong and immediate connection as they talked about their aspirations, values, family, and more. The conversation was so engaging that by the time they looked up from their table, the waitstaff had put up chairs and were mopping the floors around them. Emma was disappointed since the "best first date" was coming to an end. Fortunately, Michael promptly inquired, "Do you want to go across the street to another bar called the Butcher's Union?" They skipped across the street and ended up conversing for longer. This time, when they looked up from the table, they could smell fresh chocolate chip cookies. Emma was overjoyed when she noticed a woman from the restaurant walking around with a fresh batch of free chocolate chip cookies. Michael thought her excitement was the sweetest thing. They ate warm cookies and drank mezcal till 2 a.m. In the weeks that followed, the two of them spent hours on the phone between dates all around West Michigan. When the COVID-19 outbreak began, they got creative and started going on a lot of hikes, beach dates, and camping trips, where they discovered their mutual love of the outdoors. In August 2020, they went on their first vacation as a couple, trekking around Washington state. Before this trip, Michael met Emma's father, Rick, and older sister, Chloe. They seemed to like him, which calmed Emma down a little. Emma, on the other hand, knew that this trip would be a "make it or break it" type of expedition, requiring solid communication and teamwork on the path. Needless to say, they ended up strengthening their relationship and falling in love from there on. They have so many memories from this trip. Emma and Michael have experienced life events like relocation, new employment and career options, and further education. They found the world's cutest Rottweiler, Siggy, who brings them incredible joy. Most importantly, they have shared their families and traditions, which will continue to support them now and throughout their marriage and lives together.