It all began with mutual friends... Valerie’s good friend Shelby is married to Colin’s best friend Kyle and one day when the two individuals chose to support their friends at Kyle's high school coaching job, is when all the stars aligned.

First, meeting for pre-game dinner and drinks at Ninfa's with the wider group and introducing each other to one another to then celebratory after game drinks at Kirby Icehouse. Valerie and Colin got to know each other better as the evening went on. By the end of the night, Colin asked Valerie for her number and went on their first date just two weeks later on October 29th. The two went on to date for two more months cheering on the Astros, attending Valerie’s company holiday party, and exchanging Christmas gifts before making it official.

Now, three years later, Colin asked Valerie to marry him on the exact date of their first date; October 29, 2024!