Life is funny and beautiful…

Our journey began in the fall of 2013 at the University of Kansas. Shelby was a freshman, Ryan a junior. A mutual friend tried to set us up for a fraternity date, which never happened but fate had other plans. Instead, Ryan gave Shelby a “frat tour,” and from that moment on, we became best friends.

In 2015, friendship turned into something more. We discovered a shared love for cows, family, and exploring Kansas City. Life was simple and sweet. But in 2019, Shelby moved to Los Angeles to chase her dreams. Though we parted ways, our connection never truly faded.

After the world paused during COVID, Shelby returned to Kansas City in 2021. Despite not being together, we talked almost every day. Time and distance made one thing clear to Shelby: Ryan was always the one. So began her mission to win back her farm boy because love stories deserve happy endings just like the hallmark films.

In April 2022, we officially found our way back to each other. Decided to make it official again April 3rd, 2022, we put a lock on the Old Red Bridge in Kansas City. From that moment on, life took off: we moved in together in 2023, traveled the world (hello, Spain!) in 2024, took multiple cruises, played sand volleyball with friends and family in a league, and cheered on our favorite teams: the Jayhawks, Chiefs, and Royals.

Weekends on the farm are our favorite. It’s where we slow down, disconnect, and enjoy the simple things, just us and the cows. Shelby even has a baby heifer coming fall 2025 named Milk Dud!

On March 22, 2025, Ryan proposed. Adding another unforgettable chapter to our story. We also become godparents to Oliver Schmidt which was a very special moment for the both of us. And now, we can’t wait to say “I do” on June 13, 2026, surrounded by the people who have been part of this journey.

We’re so excited to build a future together full of family, faith, travel, laughter, and maybe a few more cows. ❤️

Travel

Kansas City Marriott Downtown

Hotel Phillips Kansas City, Curio Collection by Hilton

Crowne Plaza Kansas City Downtown, an IHG Hotel