Caroline and Josh first connected online while Caroline was a student at Hood College and Josh was living in Frederick, Maryland. At the time, Josh was finishing his associate’s degree at the local community college before transferring to Hood… where he somehow ended up in the same class as Caroline that semester. Coincidence?

For about a year, the two insisted they were “just friends.” During that time they spent plenty of hours hiking, having bonfires, and taking walks with Josh’s dog, Irma. One of their first “unofficial” dates was a trip to Markoff's Haunted Forest—where Caroline also met Josh’s sister, even though they were definitely not dating (according to Josh).

Caroline is pretty sure she knew how the story would end long before Josh did—or at least before he was ready to admit it. Finally, on Valentine’s Day in 2020, after dinner and a movie, Josh made things official by presenting a cake that asked: “Will you be mine?” Luckily for him, the answer was yes.

Since then, their relationship has been filled with adventures. They share a love of animals, enjoy tackling projects together (which has come in handy with Josh’s house-flipping), and never pass up the chance to travel—especially if a cruise is involved.

They also push each other in different ways and share a competitive side, often spending their free time playing pickleball, kickball, or whatever activity they’ve decided to try next. Above all, they keep each other laughing and fully embrace their goofy side.

In November 2025, Josh proposed under the pergola at Hood College, bringing their story full circle. They’re excited to welcome their closest friends and family to Sarasota to celebrate their wedding and the start of this next chapter together.