​Matt & Julie's love story is one of dreams. Childhood sweethearts (they met in elementary school!), they have two beautiful daughters with one just getting married this past spring. 

I was thrilled to talk to Matt & Julie about their love story. Julie and I worked together a few years ago and she is one of the best people I know. Talking to them about their relationship, I could feel the strength of their love for each other. I especially love the sweet, practical ways they show their love to each other. I hope you are inspired and encouraged by their story.

How long have you been together?
26 Years.

How long have you been married?
25 Years.

How did you meet?
We met in 4th grade at Armagh Elementary in Milroy, Pa.

What do you love the most about each other?
We are best friends. We can talk about anything and all of the time. Supportive, always there no matter what.

What is your fondest memory together?
When our daughters were born or our family beach vacations. Cruise, lazy river with live music, sunshine, and relaxation.

What activity do you love to do together?
Country drives in the mountains. We like to go “deer spotting”. Movies/ Netflix marathon of Harry Potter. We like to cook. Matt does the smoker, pulled pork and ribs - invite family over and enjoy company.

Tell me about your first date.
We have dated off and on since 4th grade. Our first “date” that we remember was on the playground/ school bus. Holding hands 🥰

How did you know he/she was the one?
We are best friends and still miss each other if away for even a weekend. It is different than just dating. It is like we are embedded within each other in every way.

How did he propose?
He asked me to get something out of his pocket during a movie. (Ring) Read an amazing note he wrote to me and then asked me to marry him.

What do you remember about the day you got married?
Our best memories of our wedding day was just how many people showed up. We felt so loved!! Unfortunately so many people that we were not expecting and had to pay extra for food and all - a lot of extra last minute logistics. The best part of the day was leaving for our honeymoon.

What was the best advice you received when you got married?
Enjoy every moment and don’t stress the little things.
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In what practical ways do you show your love for each other?
We are very close. Surprising me with breakfast. I pack his lunch for work. Leave notes in his lunchbox. Go out and get gas for him so he doesn’t have to stop the next morning. Texting each other selfies. Brings me wine home when especially bad day at work. Just take care of each other and be there for each other.

​Seth & Mackenzie's story is so sweet and beautiful. They met in their church youth group over 3 1/2 years ago and are set to get married in May this year. And wait 'til you hear how he proposed!

​I was thrilled to talk to Mackenzie about their love story as I have known Mackenzie and her family for a couple years now. She even babysat for me when my son was a toddler. Here's what Mackenzie had to say about her and Seth's relationship. I hope you are inspired and encouraged by their story.
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How long have you been together?
About 3 1/2 years.

What do you love the most about each other?
We can be goofy together and go on spontaneous adventures.

What is your fondest memory together?
We just got finished going to one of our friends wedding in Illinois... we were running behind because we wanted to catch the metro to go into Chicago for the evening. Little did we know we would be running in our dress clothes in the rain to catch the train before it left! We laughed the entire way there.

What activity do you love to do together?
Car rides to anywhere and everywhere! We made a spontaneous trip to Alabama when we were in Tennessee one time just to get Seth’s beloved Whataburger (he loved eating there when he lived in Texas).

​Tell me about your first date.
We went to the train museum in Lancaster (it’s super cool if you haven't been there!). We got to walk around and see all the different trains. He held my hand for the first time here too.

How did you know he/she was the one?
Seth is so different but so similar to me in so many ways. It’s crazy, I knew and prayed for a man like him and then when I got to know him I was like “woah Lord you weren’t joking when you said you’d send me someone that would not only be my best friend but a man of God.” He pushes me to be better in every way and still loves me when I mess up.

How did he propose?
He bought tickets to a sunflower festival in Lancaster. Little did I know he’d have my sister taking photos in the corn with his brother and best friend with sunflower masks on hiding. He proposed in the sunflower field and then brought an entire picnic for us afterwards.

In what practical ways do you show your love for each other?
Seth loves back scratches. I love when we get to sit and talk for hours.

How do you make up after getting mad?
We usually hug each other and apologize. Then we go somewhere fun or take a walk together.

What do you see as one of the biggest challenges couples face in their relationships?
Not communicating enough in each aspect of their lives. Also, not having the similar cornerstone of beliefs that make up who they are.

What was a defining moment of your relationship? (experience, trial, situation)
I wouldn’t say there was a specific moment. Through our relationship though I have seen Seth turn and grow into an amazing man of God. One that makes me not think twice about our relationship.

If there is one, what would you say is the secret to a happy and fulfilling relationship?
The Lord. Pray everyday. Know that each of you aren’t perfect and will make mistakes.

What do you look forward to in the rest of your life together?
Continuing our spontaneous adventures!

What advice do you have for other couples who are dating?
Always communicate with one another. Know that no one is perfect. Make an effort to find what their love languages are.

What advice do you have for other couples who are engaged?
Enjoy every moment! I’ve had so many people say they hated being engaged. I love it. It’s a sweet season of time that should be cherished.