Stephen and Rachel first met in the summer of 2016 at church. Throughout middle and high school, they were close friends, often playing music together and sharing the same friend group. While Rachel would never have admitted it at the time, she always had a bit of a crush on Stephen. In January 2020, Stephen asked Rachel to the winter formal, and there was undeniably something there. Then came COVID…

As things slowly opened back up, their friend group began hanging out more over the summer. Around that time, Stephen realized he wanted to ask Rachel out, but was waiting for the right moment. When Rachel’s summer plans at Camp DeSoto were canceled due to the pandemic, she spontaneously decided to join Stephen in Spartanburg, SC to study music.

It was during that trip that Stephen shared how he felt - and the day after they arrived home, July 22, 2020, he asked Rachel’s dad for permission to officially date her. The rest was history! Throughout high school, the two spent as much time as they could together. They both chose to attend the University of Tennessee, where they’ve built an amazing community of friends and have grown to love their life together in Knoxville.

On May 16th 2025, Stephen proposed at Lakeshore Park in Knoxville!

Growing up together and falling more in love as the years pass has been the greatest blessing of all. We wish 15 and 16 year old Rachel and Stephen could see us now.

We cannot believe the day will be here soon and can't wait to celebrate the big day with all of you!!!!

Photos