Nicole and Eugene’s story began with a first date at a local board game shop, where Eugene repeatedly beat Nicole in a game called Santorini — the first of many board games Nicole would lose over the course of their relationship.

Afterward, they went to dinner and spent the evening talking, laughing, and realizing how naturally they connected.

About a month later, Eugene asked Nicole to be his girlfriend, and from there, their relationship continued to grow through countless laughs, adventures, and shared moments together.

In June 2025, they went on an Alaskan cruise with both of their families. During a stop in Juneau at Eagle Beach, Nicole tried to warm her hands in Eugene’s hoodie pocket. Instead, Eugene stopped, surprised everyone, got down on one knee, and asked her to marry him.

Nicole excitedly said yes, making an already unforgettable trip even more special.