Emily and Nate's love story defies conventional romance. After meeting through a mutual friend in 2015, they barely spoke for years, maintaining only occasional contact. Everything changed when Emily moved to Arizona for college and they unexpectedly became daily confidants despite the distance.

Feeling a connection that "felt like past lives," Emily boldly asked Nate out multiple times, facing rejection until he finally invited her to a Dairy Queen date during her winter break in 2018. Their relationship survived four years of long-distance challenges between California, Arizona, and eventually Ohio, where they now live.

The proposal came during a cozy evening at home when Nate, who had originally planned an elaborate public gesture, followed his instinct and dropped to one knee in front of their fireplace. Within months, Emily secured their dream vendors for their spring wedding at an intimate venue that felt like "home."

As their wedding approaches, they look forward to sharing personal vows and creating a celebration that authentically represents them, from the music to involving their puppy Atlas in a first look. Their advice to engaged couples? Plan early, embrace a longer engagement, and most importantly, "enjoy your engagement while it lasts."