In July 2024, Ryan and Katie met online like many modern couples. Conversation easily flowed from the moment they matched. Their first date was to the state fair. They instantly clicked and had their second date the next evening. Katie's dog, Schafer, fell in love with Ryan the moment he met him and Katie knew Ryan was a special guy. Soon "I love you's" were said and Katie and Ryan met family members from both sides of the family from far and wide. In September, they took their first vacation together to Kentucky at Red River Gorge. In October, Ryan traveled to Texas to meet Katie's friends and family, and attended his first Texas Aggie football game. Later that month, Ryan and Katie traveled to Chicago and made many fun memories exploring the city. In November, they enjoyed Thanksgiving with Katie's parents and Ryan's family before flying to Hawaii. It was in Hawaii that Ryan decided he knew he wanted to marry Katie. January 4, 2025, Ryan asked Katie to marry him. The proposal plan was Madison asked Katie and Ryan out to dinner to celebrate Madison and her husband's anniversary. They took pictures out by the water at The Harbor in Rockwall, TX and Ryan surprised Katie during one of the pictures. Katie said "Yes!" and was then pointed in the direction of many of her friends and family watching from afar. It was a beautiful proposal made even more special because Katie was able to see some of her loved ones that she had not seen in months.