In the spring of 2023, I started noticing a girl in the RSM office. She was beautiful, and every time I passed by her desk, I could hear her laughing. It quickly became clear that everyone gravitated towards her. Over the next few months, Jill and I became friends through volunteer events, happy hours, and other work activities.

Shortly after, I developed a crush and decided to take action. I reached out to the head of the Atlanta office's fantasy football league and schemed my way into becoming the commissioner of the league she was in. We sat next to each other, and I carefully guided her through a successful draft (she went 8-5 that season). Eventually, I orchestrated our “first date” by telling her that our coworkers were all going next door for happy hour, but in reality, I was the only one who knew the plan. The two of us chatted over drinks and got to know each other outside of the work environment.

Finally, I mustered the courage to ask Jill out for the first time. I texted her during the Tennessee-Georgia game asking if she wanted to go on a date, hoping that after yet another loss to Georgia (38-10) I would have something to look forward to. Unlike the Vols, she pulled through, and we went on a real date on the Beltline a few days later.

Getting to know Jill was effortless – we were just able to be us; it's who we have always been together, authentically us. What I loved the most about spending time with her was how much we laughed. If you know Jill, you know that she is an incredibly joyful person. Her presence can light up a room, and her laughter is truly contagious.

As time went on, we started to talk about what we were passionate about and the guiding principles of our lives. God's presence in our relationship has been so kind and evident, and attending church together has become one of our favorite activities. At the end of the day, I never could have imagined that I would have the opportunity to marry someone as beautiful, joyful, kind, and loving as Jill, who has always had my back through everything.

We are incredibly grateful for the guidance and friendship each of you has provided in our lives, and we cannot wait to celebrate with you in the city of dreams – Carrollton, GA!