Derek & Jolenne met in December 2020 at a bonfire near where Jolenne grew up. The pair sparked a conversation and a bet whether or not she could pronounce what would become her last name. Regardless of how her pronunciation went, they were instantly connected to each other and quickly made plans to see each other again. Luckily, Derek was going to school not far west of Jolenne so they spent every weekend together that semester building their relationship. After Derek graduated, they continued visiting each other, never letting the trip from New Jersey to Pennsylvania get in the way of their love.

In February 2022, Derek received a job offer in Colorado that would require them to be moved out there in 6 weeks or less. Jolenne knew she wanted to be with Derek, so without hesitation, she moved out with him. They didn’t know what the future had in store for them, but their love was strong enough to overcome any challenge that laid before them. For 2 1/2 years they enjoyed a wonderful time in Colorado exploring everything the state has to offer, while also deepening their relationship and growing together.

In the summer of 2024, the universe called them back home to the east coast, and in another whirlwind move, they packed everything up and moved back home. Derek knew after 4 years, 2 moves, thousands of miles, and millions of memories, that there was no one else he wanted to spend the rest of his life with. He had a plan to take her camping at one of their first date spots, all that was left to do now was keep it a secret. Derek found a good weekend and the camping spots were booked! Jolenne assumed they were going on a normal camping trip right up until Derek explained to her that they tried to reach the spot once before, but ended up stuck in the snow on the very same road. As the overlook into the mountains of Pennsylvania came into view, Derek dropped to one knee and surprised Jolenne with his mother’s ring. A very excited Jolenne immediately said yes!!