OUR STORY

We first met in the Boreham Library on the campus of the University of Arkansas - Fort Smith. It happened to be Valentine's Day: February 14, 2023. Anna was serving as the Freshman Representative for the Student Government Association, and Justin had been invited to their weekly meeting as a special advisor. We were formally introduced that day by the Dean of Students.

A few months later, Justin announced his bid for SGA presidency, and Anna joined the ticket as the Chief of Staff. After an uncontested victory, we really began to know one another as we worked to run the student government more efficiently than ever. Throughout this process, Anna fell first—though Justin didn't fully come around until about November of 2023. We went on our first date on December 13, 2023, and officially became a couple on December 19, 2023.

Since then, we have been a steadfast presence in each other's lives. From day one, we aimed to uphold a Biblical understanding of relationships, setting our compass toward the goal of marriage. Through mutual support, we quickly discovered that what made us great partners in student government made us excellent partners for life.

We knew we wanted a short engagement, so we had to plan wisely. It was a challenge to coordinate while Justin was in his first year of optometry school and Anna was tackling her busiest year of college. Justin selected a ring in early January 2025 and waited for the perfect moment. On May 24, 2025, Justin got down on one knee and said:

In my life I will only ever kneel to God and to the authority He has rightfully ordained. But tonight, I kneel before you — to ask you to marry me.

The reply was a resounding "yes." We celebrated with our families and immediately began planning for the big day.

Like all relationships that aim to glorify God, ours hasn't been without its trials. We have worked through various challenges, proving to ourselves that we can endure and grow together. After the wedding, we plan to move to Tahlequah, Oklahoma, where Justin will complete optometry school. Anna will graduate from UAFS shortly before the wedding and has already begun preparing for our future home.

Our reliance on and identity in Christ isn't just for show; it is deeply rooted in every decision we have made since the day we committed to marriage. We have learned so much already and look forward to learning the many things we don't know yet. Please join us on May 23, 2026, for our wedding—we can't wait to see you there.