The summer of 2022 was a season that would change our lives forever.

Rewind to late July 2022, mutual friends reached out and asked us both to join them at the county fair. At the time, we didn't think much of it other than a casual summer outing doing what you're supposed to do in southern Indiana- attend a tractor pull in 90 degree weather and cool down with a few beers in hand. We hopped in our friends side-by-side and headed to the Vanderburgh County fair grounds. As you can imagine, attempting to strike up conversation and getting to know someone while you're screaming over the ear-piercing sound of diesel engines was quite romantic.

We ended the evening swinging by a local tavern for quick drinks and appetizers with our friends, giving us another chance at small-talk.

The next day, our mutual friend reached out to us separately fishing for all the details. "So what did you think of Taylor?!" " How was it talking to Derek? Did he ask for your number?!" The answer was... nope. Anyone who knows Derek, knows he's a critical thinker with a cool-as-a-cucumber mentality at all times. After we went our separate ways that evening, it took at least one full week until that mysterious text from a stranger popped up. "Hey, its Derek. I got your number, I hope that's okay."

Two weeks later we went on our first date, just the two of us. As contrary as it sounds, once again, we found ourselves sitting outside in the blistering summer heat enjoying a cold beer and deep-fried bar food. As the weeks went on, our connection began to grow more and more. We began to build the start of forever.

Fast forward to New Years 2025. We hosted a group of friends over to ring in the new year. With a lot of strategic planning down to the exact minute, our New Years Eve party turned into an engagement party once the clock hit midnight. It was an amazing evening filled with many emotions realizing how excited we were to begin planning our journey as Mr. and Mrs. Oliver!

Throughout our relationship, we've each held so much pride introducing each other to family and friends, which is something that was very important to the both of us from day one. We've been so lucky to travel many places together and tackle new adventures that our hearts will remember forever. Some of our favorite pastimes include spending time outdoors, tackling house projects to create our house into our home, spoiling our beloved dog Milah, cruising backroads on our side-by-side, trying out new dinner recipes, bourbon sampling, game nights, cheering on the Purdue Boilermakers, and traveling to new places.

We are so grateful to have such a strong support system that has been able to witness our love story unfold. We cant wait for what the future holds as we begin this next chapter!

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