Rewind to June of 2017, we were two incoming Purdue freshmen anxiously planning the start of our college careers. A couple time zones away and still unbeknownst to each other, we packed our bags in preparation for the next chapter of our lives – not knowing that destiny would soon intervene!

Garrett was born and raised in San Diego. He used to joke with his sister, Taylor, that he wouldn't find a girl at Purdue. One day over the summer, Taylor happened to be scrolling through Instagram's "Explore" page, where the App’s algorithm suggests compatible posts/people based on possible connections or similar interests. Among hundreds of different suggestions, @gmomholt23 appeared and Taylor happened to click on the account where the bio read "Purdue Class of 2021." Taylor immediately sent Gretchen's account to Garrett and told him "Follow her! She's from Texas!" (Garrett's family used to joke that he would marry a girl from the South. He would propose on the day Taylor found Gretchen, June 23rd, six years later). But, at the time, Garrett thanked Taylor for her help and proceeded to follow Gretchen on social media. And Gretchen followed back. However, the two never thought too much of the new following and never messaged each other as it was quite the norm for the incoming freshman class to follow each other.

Fast forward a month to move-in day, Gretchen was putting the finishing touches on her dorm set-up with the help of her Mom & Dad and sisters Kirsten & Lauren...which meant it was now time to say goodbye. They hugged and unsuccessfully held back tears as Gretchen walked away to her freshman orientation session. At the same exact time, Garrett, who ironically lived in the dorm next door, finished his move-in. He tearfully hugged his Mom & Dad goodbye and proceeded to the same orientation meeting. Two firstborns leaving their respective nests simultaneously and on a collision course with their future spouse and soulmate.

<<Cue destiny>>

As Gretchen walked down the block to the meet-up lawn, the first person she made eye contact with was – you guessed it – @garrettmitchell32. Both were too nervous to say anything to each other but each immediately knew who the other person was based on photos from social media. A similar encounter happened again the next day…and the day after…on the campus of over 40,000 students. What are the odds?!

Finally, on the fourth chance encounter, the confidence built for Garrett to approach Gretchen, introduce himself, and tell the story behind how he recognized her. Gretchen was hesitant at first but as their conversation continued, there was no denying the connection. Talk about ‘meant-to-be’!

To this day, Garrett claims he was in love at first sight and Gretchen soon felt likewise. The cherry on top was the week after they met when Garrett picked up a fortune cookie from the campus dining hall which read "A new relationship is about to blossom. You will be blessed."

And blessed we continue to be…

Registry