Stephan and McKenzie first crossed paths in May 2018 while studying at the College of Charleston in beautiful Charleston, South Carolina. Despite having countless mutual friends and attending many of the same events over the years, fate seemed to keep them just out of each other’s reach until that late spring day when everything changed.

McKenzie tagged along with a mutual friend to Stephan’s house, thinking she was visiting a different Stephan she knew. Coincidentally, Stephan thought a different McKenzie was coming over! When McKenzie went inside, both played along as if they knew each other - sharing a friendly hug and polite conversation - while McKenzie’s dog, Lafayette, instantly decided Stephan was her new favorite person. A few days later, they both admitted to the mix-up and burst into laughter, setting the tone for what would become a lifetime of joy and humor together.

From the start, their connection felt effortless. They were amazed to discover how much they had in common: both grew up as military kids, spending their childhoods in Heidelberg, Germany, Washington D.C., and Columbia, South Carolina. Both worked at The Gap at the same time, but at different storefronts. They shared the same circle of friends, a love of adventure, and more! But most importantly, they both felt a sense that this meeting, years in the making, was meant to be. By October 2018, they were inseparable and certain they had found their missing piece in one another.

A few years later, in 2020, their journey took them north to Portland, Maine where they fell in love with the charm of New England. In 2021, they made their next big move together to historic Salem, Massachusetts, which is now home to the couple and their three beloved pets: Lafayette, Zuri, and Sage. However, the whole family will be relocating to New Zealand in July 2026!

Since that serendipitous day in 2018, Stephan and McKenzie have filled their lives with love, laughter, and adventure. They spend their days hiking, cooking, baking, playing pickleball, hanging out with their fur children and friends, and exploring the world - from across the U.S. to Germany, Iceland, Honduras, Belize, and Mexico. Japan and Australia are next on their list, but their favorite place will always be wherever they’re together.

What started as a happy accident became something extraordinary: two people, choosing every day, to support one another, chase their dreams together, and love without end.

Enjoy a brief look at their journey below