Austin and Abbie’s love story didn’t begin with sparks flying across a crowded room—it began with an empty gas tank and twenty borrowed dollars.

Though they attended the same high school, they hardly knew one another until fate (and a roundabout accident) redirected Abbie into a gas station parking lot. There stood Austin, stranded with zero miles left on his tank and no wallet in sight. Abbie thought he was cute, handed him $20 for gas, and even asked if he wanted to grab lunch. He paid her back the very next day, but months would pass before their first real date. Looking back, it’s fitting that their story began with a simple act of kindness—a glimpse of the love, selflessness, and grace that would come to define their relationship.

At first, neither expected much. Austin was preparing to leave for college at Southern Miss, while Abbie still had another year of high school. The odds of something lasting seemed slim. Yet, as it often does, life unfolded differently than planned. They quickly became inseparable best friends and soon realized that what they had stumbled into was real.

One of their earliest adventures together was a spontaneous road trip to Fairhope, Alabama, during Mardi Gras break. With no agenda besides a long car ride, endless conversation, and a quick lunch, they turned right back around after the meal. It may not have been glamorous, but it was unforgettable, setting the tone for the countless memories they would make in the years to come.

Through high school dances, the challenges of long-distance during college, their first jobs, and the addition of their sweet dog Sprig, Austin and Abbie grew side by side. Life brought its share of ups and downs, but faith remained at the center, guiding them and reminding them that true love is built on patience, trust, forgiveness, and resilience. Their story is not one without challenges—but one in which every obstacle deepened their bond and strengthened their faith in each other and in God’s plan.

They also created traditions along the way—like settling every disagreement over ice cream (because it’s impossible to stay mad over sprinkles) and cherishing peaceful boat rides at sunset with Sprig.

Seven years later, Austin knew it was time to ask the biggest question of all. On Friday, June 20, 2025, in Ocean Springs, Mississippi, he took Abbie to dinner at Maison De Lu. She cried happy tears throughout the meal, sensing what was to come. Sure enough, after dinner, Austin popped the question just outside the restaurant, and Abbie said yes to forever.

Now, after years of growing together, they are ready to step into their next chapter. On October 3, 2026, Austin and Abbie will be married at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in New Orleans, Louisiana, surrounded by the friends and family who have supported and celebrated their journey. For them, the wedding day is not just about the day itself—it is about a promise to continue building a life rooted in faith, laughter, adventure, and love.

And to think, it all started with $20 at a gas station.

-Written by Julia Knower