We met over dinner at the Rainbow Lodge in Houston, Texas on January 19th, 2024. That evening, we knew we had found something special. We enjoyed our time so much that, at Jared’s invitation, Amanda cancelled plans the next evening to spend the night enjoying a comedy show and putt-putt together. From then on, we rarely spent a day apart.

We quickly learned how much we had in common. Family values, hometown, appreciation of Texas, entrepreneurial bug, and faith are just some of the ways we connect. These bonds gave us the confidence to overlook each other’s alma maters. Joking aside, we look forward to attending many UVA/VT rivalry games together.

We both love to travel. Not wanting to spend a day apart, we invited each other to existing trips and booked new ones together. Costa Rica, Vegas, Tahoe, and Lake Conroe are just a few of the adventures we have taken so far. On these trips, it became clear that we wanted to spend our lives together.

Family is important to us both. Our most recent trip was back to our stomping grounds for Amanda’s mom’s retirement party and to celebrate Father’s Day with both families. Ahead of the trip, Jared had an idea that he shared with Elizabeth and Robert, who were thrilled to hear it! He planned to propose.

The trip would provide the perfect chance. We had an evening planned at the Cavalier Resort. We both agreed it would be an ideal place to get married one day. Upon checking in, Jared took Amanda to the room where the future ceremony will be held. Together, they looked at the water. When she turned around, he was on one knee. “I love you. I trust you. I connect with you. I want to spend the rest of my life with you. Will you marry me?” She said yes!