March 30th, 2024 What began as an ordinary day quickly turned into something extraordinary. I was spending a quiet afternoon at Brittany’s house, working on homework, immersed in the comfort of what had become a routine since Brittany and I started working together through school. Meanwhile, Brittany’s daughter and Melinda’s daughter were enjoying time together, and Melinda had been invited to join the evening’s gathering. What seemed like a simple night was, in fact, the moment our lives were about to change forever. When Melinda arrived at Brittany’s house, she immediately noticed the sleek Tesla parked in the driveway. After meeting me, she casually asked Brittany, “Did you guys get a Tesla?” With a knowing smile, Brittany revealed that it was actually my car and encouraged Melinda to take a ride with me. Melinda, with her own blend of intelligence, steadiness, and fearlessness, noticed something more. Her natural ability to be direct and express what was on her mind without hesitation seemed like it would mesh perfectly with my own character. She was struck by my quiet confidence and, without overthinking it, agreed to take the ride that Brittany suggested. It wasn’t just a simple car ride—it was where the first sparks of connection were ignited. As we spoke, our conversation flowed effortlessly, revealing a shared ease and mutual respect. My calmness allowed Melinda to feel completely at ease, while her clarity and straightforwardness made the exchange between us feel refreshing and real. By the time we parted ways that evening, it was clear that something profound had begun, even though neither of us could have foreseen just how deeply our lives would intertwine. Easter Sunday, March 31st, 2024 The following day, Easter Sunday, I found myself eager to speak with Melinda again. There was an undeniable excitement in my heart, yet I felt a gentle pull to hold back, uncertain of what the next step should be. But Melinda, true to her fearless and straightforward nature, took the first step. She sent me a friend request, an unspoken invitation to deepen our connection. I didn’t hesitate for a second—accepting the request almost immediately. From that moment, our days were filled with messages, laughter, and conversations that only grew richer as time passed. What began as a chance encounter had blossomed into something far deeper—something that felt destined from the start. Looking back, we both understand that the path leading us to one another wasn’t a straight line. It was a winding road filled with unexpected turns, sweet surprises, and moments that led us exactly where we were meant to be. That road, though unpredictable, was a blessing—one we would never change.

The Proposal – July 1st, 2024 On July 1st, 2024, I knew the time had come to make Melinda my forever. I chose Haven’s Beach in Mathews, Virginia—a serene setting where the waves and beauty of nature echoed the love we shared. This spot was carefully selected with help from Sarah and Luke, who knew it would be perfect for the occasion As the sun set, casting a golden glow over the water, I dropped to one knee and asked Melinda, the woman who had changed my life, to be with me forever. The moment was even more special with our loved ones present: my mother, stepfather Dan, my sister Sarah, her husband Luke, their daughter Abigail, and my children, TJ and Adrianna. Surrounded by family and the beach’s natural beauty, Melinda, with tears in her eyes and joy in her heart, said yes. It was a promise of love that would last forever. Kyle’s Wedding Ring – A Legacy of Love As we step into the next chapter of our lives, there’s a special detail that means more to me than words can express—my wedding ring. It’s not just a symbol of my love for Melinda but also a cherished legacy from my late father, Elwood. I’ve always known this ring would be mine. My father wore it proudly as a symbol of his love for my mother. But it’s the story behind it that ties it to my heart. Years ago, my father fractured his finger, and the EMS offered to cut off his wedding band to treat the injury. But despite the pain, my father refused. They began to cut the ring off, but he stopped them. With unwavering determination, he carefully removed the ring himself, preserving its bond as a testament to his love. That ring, now passed to me, carries more than just a story—it carries a cut mark, a permanent reminder of true love that doesn’t falter, even in hardship. It’s a symbol of sacrifice, commitment, and a bond that cannot be severed. For me, this ring is not just a memento of my father but a testament to the kind of love I had always hoped to find—a love like my parents' that transcends time. As I place this ring on my finger, it represents the deep, unwavering commitment I’ve made to Melinda, grounded in the same principles of strength, loyalty, and devotion my father showed my mother. Our Wedding – September 13th, 2025 As we look ahead to our wedding day on September 13th, 2025, we are filled with immense gratitude. Our journey, though unexpected, has been magical. From the first ride in my car to the unforgettable proposal at Haven’s Beach, we’ve come to realize our love is extraordinary—written in the stars long before we met. We’ll say our vows in a at the Bushnell Event Center in Springfield, Ohio marking the start of the next chapter of our journey. It feels like the perfect place to officially begin our life together, with the love that has already carried us this far. Our story proves that sometimes, the most beautiful chapters in life come from the most unexpected moments. Fate works in mysterious ways, bringing two souls together with love that grows deeply. We are beyond blessed to have found each other, and we can’t wait to begin this new chapter. As we prepare to say “I do,” we reflect on the love that has grown between us and the joy of spending our lives together. We invite you to join us in celebrating this once-in-a-lifetime love as we say our vows on September 13th, 2025. Together, we will write the rest of our story, hand in hand.