It all started the first week of college our freshman year. We were both out with separate groups of friends and Ryan came over to say hi to someone in my group. I made an attempt to be funny and made fun of his "California accent", saying it totally sounded like a surfer dude. In truth, it really didn't, but I was trying my best to flirt. Ryan eventually befriended one of my good friends from orientation because they lived in the same dorm. After spending some time together in a large group, Ryan told her that he thought Frannie was cute. The message was passed on and it was only a month later that we started dating, and the rest is history. We've made it through the pandemic and long-distance but never ran out of things to talk about despite our daily 3-hour Facetime calls while we were apart and almost 5 years together. Our proposal story will forever be my favorite to tell... As a Valentine's Day/Birthday gift, Ryan got us a private ballroom dance lesson because I always told him I wanted to dance with him. We showed up on a Saturday to a completely empty studio. The teacher started the lesson as normal. Toward the end, we practiced a move to upbeat music. Next, she said we would try a slower song. Then the first song Ryan ever sent to me and "our song" which is Best Part of Me by Ed Sheeran comes on. She told me to close my eyes and when I opened them he was on one knee. After obviously saying yes, Ryan went over and texted something on his phone. The next thing I knew, I saw two women running by the window. Our parents flew in from Minnesota and California to surprise us and celebrate. We all went out to a nice dinner in Milwaukee and now we get to plan a celebration with all of you:) We are so blessed to be able to share the beginning of our life as a husband and wife with you. We could not be more grateful to be surrounded by such loving family and friends. Please navigate our website accordingly for further information about our very special day! xoxo, Ryan & Frannie