Her Side: After hearing about a friend's sister having success on Hinge, I decided to give it a shot even though online dating wasn't my thing. A few days in, I received a rose from Christian. Most people would be flattered, but I thought the roses were not cool. However, I still decided to match, and we chatted online and on the phone. The timing wasn't right though, and I soon left Hinge and Christian had removed our match anyway due to my lack of timely communication. Although those who know me can't fault me for that, as I am known to pack a lot into each day, which Christian too would eventually learn. Fast forward a few months, and I decided to try Hinge again. Christian debated, but decided to match once more. Once again we chatted online and on the phone. Christian tried to secure a date, but I needed more time. Eventually I agreed, and we decided to go to the 4PM church service on Saturday at Eagle Brook and get sushi at Akita after. In typical Erica fashion, I texted to say I was running late, to which Christian was hoping I wouldn't actually show up. However, ten minutes in I did, and after the captivating smell of my perfume and my "cute" appearance he was so glad I did. The first date went well, and we planned another one the next weekend to go to the outlet mall. However, I had hurt her knee, so I struggled to walk through the outlet. I had planned to bring crutches, but remembered how tough it is to walk with them too, so I left them at home. Christian had to help me, and we had to sit down several times to allow me to rest which allowed us plenty of times to talk. When we got back to my house, he kissed me, and I invited him in to play games, something that would become a favorite activity of rus. Our third date which was did it for me, he wanted to celebrate my birthday, so we decided to go to the Mall of America and get dinner. He arrived with flowers hidden on the passenger seat for me to find when I opened up the door. He bought me a perfume I wanted at MOA and took me to Hazelwood for dinner. I was so blown away by his thoughtfulness, and I knew there was something different about him. A few more dates, and we officially started dating after enjoying dinner on opening day of the Woodbury Crisp and Green on Thursday, May 5. He told me he loved me on Sunday, May 8 after a Mother's Day dinner at Texas Roadhouse. Christian asked my dad to marry me on Wednesday, August 9. He was eager to propose, but a few spoiled plans and solidifying the ring design took some time. We got engaged on Friday, December 1 during the fireworks show in Whoville at Miracle at Big Rock. I had an idea it was coming because of the impromptu visit, the eagerness to see the fireworks show, and the fact that my mom put on the *NSync Christmas album for us to listen to (TWICE THROUGH) on the way up. On our way up, we had a slight delay when we got pulled over by a cop. Luckily no ticket was issued and we were on our way. We pulled in next to my dad and step-mom and parked directly across from them which had my step-mom trying to hide. We are excited to promise forever on Saturday, July 27 in a oceanside cermony at the Majestic Elegance Resort in Costa Mujeres, and we can't wait to celebrate back in MN with you on Saturday, August 17 at The Cottage Farmhouse in Glencoe!

His Side: I could tell from the very beginning this lil’ lady was going to be a tough cliff to climb, but I knew this view would be something I’ve never seen before. She held her head up high, was calculated, and wanted to know everything about you. She was full of questions and showed a genuine interest in you. I could tell she was very well put together and had many admirable accomplishments. This woman would give you her all and pour everything into you. However, I knew she wasn’t going to hand that out freely. Judging from how meticulously and precise she had designed the gorgeous mountain that was her life and incredibly sturdy it was; I knew I could trust it. She requested my presence for dinner a few times, and I could see this gentle sweetheart knew her value. I wasn’t sure of how to show her I could see her heart and illustrate the respect and admiration I had for a woman of her caliber. I just had to keep climbing her spiritual and emotional rock-side. I saw how beautiful this hillside was, but knew I had to show it the utmost respect and not hurt myself in the process. I’d have to get to the top and let her know what I see. I’d have to take care of it, fix any scratches or nicks I may cause, and let her know how I was going to prevent it in the future. Once I got a peak of the internal beauty, I knew there would be others admiring it. I ended up stating my love for her early on. I waited a few months to hear that beautiful statement from her lips. It eventually came through speaker phone from the car her mom and Dave were riding in with her. Then she hung up just to mess with me. I found it endearing and hilarious. This blinged out sparkling, diamond covered, cowboy boot wearing lil’ lady played every 90’s pop song and pop country song imaginable in my truck for months, as we drove around the Twin Cities visiting Plato’s Closet’s, TJ Maxx’s, Marshall’s, Home Goods, Eagan Outlet Mall, and Mall of America, where she sniped out amazing deals on otherwise expensive clothing and home decor. She introduced me to activities and places that took me outside my comfort zone and caused me to grow. We introduced each other to our friends which led to vacations and dinners together. As a couple, we also made new friends, through our faith, with couples who are beginning the journey of marriage as well. Erica has challenged me in many ways to be the best version of myself. Without those challenges, I would not have been able to grow into who I’ve become these past two years. She can see my capabilities and character defects which stand in the way better than I can myself and I appreciate that immensely. I will cherish and honor her forever. I take a lot of pride in calling her mine and being a provider for her and our future family. I cannot fathom or wait to see the incredible mother she will be, and how God will continue to use us together to further His kingdom.