It all started with a putt-putt date while Stephen was visiting his parents from Chicago. From the very start, Stephen and Katie were smitten as some kittens—I mean how could they not be when they were both so naturally impressive at mini golf? (note: katie is not good at mini golf) They went their separate ways for a bit of time after their perfect first date, occasionally keeping in touch.

Fast forward—Stephen moved to Charlotte, settled in, and after nearly a year, he decided to give fate another nudge. On the exact one-year mark of their first date, he asked Katie out again for what they now call their "second first date."

From that moment on, it was effortless. They fell in love almost immediately, became inseparable, and found themselves in the kind of happiness that feels like home.

And now… here we are, ready to say I do!