Isabelle and Bryce met in high school architecture class in 2017. It was a tiny class of five, and one of Isabelle’s friends — for reasons no one ever discovered — thought Bryce’s name was “Rad.” The nickname made no sense, but it became a running joke for months.

They bonded quickly over shared interests and easy conversation. Their first date was back when malls existed: they wandered aimlessly through every store without buying a single thing. On their second date they went to the movies and talked so much they forgot what was playing — and somehow avoided getting kicked out. Bryce said “I love you” first; however Isabelle was hesitant as it was the first time either of them had been in a serious relationship. Saying those words felt like crossing a threshold, yet it only took the drive home for her to realize she was in love with him.

Bryce asked Isabelle to be his girlfriend the day after Valentine’s Day in 2018. They dated through high school, even going to prom together twice. They endured a long-distance relationship through college at two different schools. The pandemic’s first year brought relief when classes moved online and they were able to spend that time together back in Connecticut. Bryce, who had spent summers in Nebraska for many years, moved there with his family in late 2020. Isabelle visited during breaks, and after graduating in 2022 she decided to move to Nebraska to be with him.

On October 26, 2024, Bryce proposed at Kent Falls. They hiked to the top of the waterfall, stopping often to catch their breath; he nearly revealed the plan early, but held out. At the top he read a corny poem he’d written, knelt, and well, we all know what the answer was.

Their wedding is planned for September 2026, and they’re currently looking to buy their first home together before then. After eight years together, Isabelle and Bryce are excited to begin this next chapter and make more memories.