We met the modern way — on a dating app — in October 2023. Sarah was in Denver, I was in Louisville. I sent her a message, got no reply for almost a week, and was about one tap away from unmatching when she logged back in after a long hiatus and decided to go on a date with one of her matches. That one ended up being me. She made a good pick😉

I thought she was stunning, and the fact that she listed skiing and golfing in her profile meant she wasn’t just attractive, she also could tag along with me on my favorite hobbies. Sarah thought I looked like a classic Midwestern guy and liked that I didn’t waste time being vague about what I was looking for. We both appreciated the no-nonsense vibe. Our first date almost didn’t happen. She was nearly 30 minutes late thanks to a hair appointment that went long, and I was sitting there wondering if I was getting played. But then she walked in and all was forgiven over some margaritas and queso. What stood out most wasn’t the food or the awkward timing, though. We skipped the small talk and went straight into what we were actually looking for: marriage, family, shared values.

A few months in, I knew this was serious. I brought her to Minnesota to meet my family. It wasn’t some cinematic turning point — more like a quiet, certain shift. She fit right in! It confirmed what I already suspected: this wasn’t just something good, it was something real. We’ve made a rhythm of doing life together — not just in the big moments, but in the day-to-day. We hike, golf, ski, hit the gym, play pickleball, try new restaurants. It’s not about being “that couple who’s always on an adventure” it’s that we genuinely enjoy each other. I’ve especially loved watching Sarah get better and braver on skis these past few years. Lots of fun ski trips to come!

Even with the short distance between us, the logistics haven’t always been easy. Sometimes it seems easier to cross the southern border than to get from Boulder to Denver in rush hour traffic 🤠 However, we’ve grown to make Sunday’s at our church a staple in our relationship. We have been attending a conservative Christian church, the Well, where we’ve both grown in our faith — individually and together. One of the pastors there, who’s become a mentor and friend, will be officiating our wedding. That decision came easily. We’re building our relationship on Ephesians 5 — not as a lofty idea, but as a daily goal: love, submission, sacrifice, grace.

I proposed on July 4th at the top of Mount Sanitas — the spot where we had our second date and a trail we’ve hiked a few times since. I kept the pace easy (on purpose), trying not to look suspicious or get too sweaty, but I think Sarah saw right through it. Still, she was smiling, surprised, and excited when I dropped to one knee at the summit. We were too happy to be bothered by the rain coming down the mountain and enjoyed a day full of celebrations.

There’s a lot I love about her: her sense of humor, her patience with me and others, the way she’s anchored by truth, and how clearly I can see her being a phenomenal mom. I trust her completely. She says she loves how hard I work, how I lead, and how I don’t dream small — and I do everything I can to make that true. Now we’re looking ahead! Buying a home, starting a family, and continuing to root ourselves in the community we already love. We’ve got great friends that have become family, a strong church, and a lot of excitement for what’s next. Sarah and I are excited to celebrate our marriage with all of you this October!