If things are meant to be they will find their way back together. This was true when it came to Holly and Ethan’s love story. These two first met when they crossed paths unexpectedly one weekend in college. Holly had traveled to Virginia Tech to visit some of her high school friends. While at a party, she decided to join a game of flip cups, ironically right across from Ethan. As the game continued, Ethan was impressed with her effortless ability to flip a cup and land it perfectly upside down on the first try. Although Holly had caught Ethan’s attention after a few rounds they went their separate ways and returned to their lives at school – Holly at George Mason and Ethan at Virginia Tech.

Two years later, Ethan graduated college and moved to Northern Virginia. He was excited about this new adventure, however, he found himself thinking about Holly. A few weeks after he arrived, Ethan reached out to Holly’s good friend, telling her that he remembered meeting Holly and asked for the scoop about what she had been up to. He also requested her friend to put in a good word for him. Playing matchmaker, the friend relayed Ethan’s message and Holly was surprised and intrigued that Ethan had remembered her. She knew it must have been her exceptional skill at flip cup. After reconnecting, the two of them soon planned their first date at Uncle Julio’s. The conversation effortlessly flowed as they enjoyed overpriced margaritas and endless chips and salsa, and they have been together ever since! 

When we asked Holly and Ethan how they knew marriage was the next chapter in their relationship, they both spoke of how strong their love has become since the first day they met. Holly shared, “We have been together for over 7 years now and our love has only grown stronger each year. We have experienced a lot together, worked through hard times, and feel that these experiences have only strengthened our relationship. We share similar values and goals in life. We have decided to spend the rest of our lives together and are ready to make that commitment to one another.”

In their free time, Holly and Ethan enjoy spending time with their dog, Nala, and exercising together whether it’s running or bike riding. They also love to travel near and far to explore new areas, try new foods, and drinks! Two of their favorite types of places to spend time are breweries and wineries. When not on the go, Holly, and Ethan like quiet nights relaxing together, watching new movies or favorite tv shows.

Holly and Ethan have built their strong and loving relationship on three shared values. First, they value commitment to one another and to others in their lives. Second, they value being honest and open to one another every day.  Finally, they both value listening – really hearing one another and being present.