From the moment the Bayer announcement was made about a new ABM in the Central Plains, Austin was intrigued to meet Ciera. She vaguely remembers their first encounter during a busy networking night in St. Louis, but for Austin, that moment sparked something.

As spring unfolded with corporate marketing meetings that brought Ciera to Missouri, Austin made sure to find moments to connect. After a week of meetings, he finally worked up the courage to add her on Instagram—and in true Ciera fashion, she slid into his DMs with the wittiest message. And just like that, a beautiful love story began to take shape.

Their first "date" was more like a three-day adventure in St. Louis, filled with laughter, connection, and that unshakable feeling that something special had begun.

From there, the jet-setting began—splitting time between Colorado and Missouri, chapter after chapter was written. Ciera quickly fell in love with Missouri summers, and Austin embraced the mountain air of Colorado. Together, their shared love for skiing—something that became a core part of their adventures and memories.

One of their earliest milestones was Austin taking Ciera on her first flight with him, a symbolic moment of trust and excitement. Over time, their lives became beautifully intertwined—with family, friends, and a shared love of sports, golf dates when possible, and fall weekends fully scheduled around football. Each week, Ciera still helps Austin fine-tune his fantasy football lineup, and together, they’ve built a life of joy, travel, and teamwork.

Eventually, Ciera’s heart was all-in on life in Missouri—with Austin. She closed the Colorado chapter, ready for the next one. Through it all, Austin has been her steady encourager and greatest supporter—leading with love and faith, just as God has called him to.

On January 2nd, at Bear Tree in Vail—Ciera’s favorite place—Austin planned the most thoughtful and unforgettable proposal. She said "yes" to forever in the mountains they both love, making sure Vail would always hold a special place in their story.

Now, we can’t wait to celebrate with all of our favorite people. Our story has been written in God’s perfect timing, and His presence remains the center of our lives. Through seeking His Will, we’re now ready to Ring in the Raines!