Alex and Max first met 13 years ago at Kealing Middle School, where they quickly became each other’s first love. Their early story was filled with hours of Skype video calls, a first date ice skating at the downtown Austin Whole Foods, a first kiss at Barton Creek Mall, and a very memorable Valentine’s Day gift—a light blue Tiffany heart necklace engraved with Max’s initials.

As Max transitioned to high school, their relationship gently shifted from romance to friendship. Over the next few years, they stayed in touch casually, each continuing to grow and experience life on their own paths.

When Alex chose the University of Texas for college, Max wasn’t far from her mind. As Max had just finished his freshman year, he was happy to share his advice with Alex, introduce her to his friends, and hang out with her during summer parties.

Alex’s first year at UT was dotted by quick run-ins with Max at tailgates and on campus, but it was at the end of the spring semester when everything changed. Max spotted Alex outside Cedar Street Courtyard during a spring formal event, and the next morning, he asked if he could take her to breakfast at El Alma. That breakfast marked the beginning of a new chapter, and the rekindling of their romantic relationship.

Over the past eight years, Alex and Max have built a beautiful life together. They’ve celebrated college graduations and job transitions, traveled through Europe and Mexico, moved in together, and adopted two beloved cats. Now, they’re so excited to take the next step: getting married and beginning the next chapter of their story, together.