The Love Story of Hilary and Drew
The Before
At the time, both Hilary and Drew were working for the University of Georgia, although they did not work together frequently and did not know each other. In August 2019, Drew and Hilary ‘s paths crossed at a work event. From the first moment Drew saw her, he thought she was so beautiful and sparked a huge crush on her. Unfortunately, for Hilary, Drew was too nervous to ask Hilary out!
In early November 2020, Hilary and Drew were watching the annual Georgia versus Florida football game with their “COVID-circle” of friends. Being in Bulldog Country, Drew was the only Gator around. Luckily, for Drew, the Gators won the game and Drew found a new surge of confidence. Hilary, on the other hand, found a new surge for a cocktail to wave off Drew’s victory. Although, Hilary was the real winner of the night when she boldly marched up to Drew and asked, “So when are you going to ask me out?”
First Date
November 13, 2020
Drew picked Hilary up at her friend Kate’s (now Hilary’s Maid of Honor!) house where she got ready for the evening. Drew, Hilary, Kate, and her husband Nathan enjoyed a drink together before Drew courted her for the rest of the evening.
They started with a cocktail and an app at The World Famous. Still nervous around his crush, Drew jokingly prepared “get to know you” questions in a small notebook. Drew used that same notebook to ask Hilary to marry him. That same notebook will be holding his wedding vows.
The night continued with dinner at one of Athens, GA favorite restaurants, Last Resort Grill. Over dinner, both knew the other was something special and couldn’t wait for a second date.
346 Miles
Drew accepted a position at the University of Florida, bringing him back to his Gainesville, FL roots. 346 miles stood between Drew and Hilary, but their love for each other was intentional and strong as they each frequently drove and flew to be in each other’s arms. FaceTime dates became frequent as did little weekend getaways to visit each other.
By June 2022, Hilary and Drew decided to close the gap between them and move-in together down in the Sunshine State. Hilary and Cooper packed up their world (UGA apparel of highest priority) and moved down to Drew and the Gator Nation. Drew and Hilary currently still reside in Gainesville, FL.
She Said “YES!”
December 21, 2023
Getting ready to leave for the Christmas holiday, Drew thought it would be best to go out to dinner and enjoy a Christmas Date Night together. Planned was a dinner at Mark’s Prime Steakhouse followed by a Christmas Jazz Band over cocktails. Hilary had a feeling that tonight was the night Drew would propose! Although, throughout all of dinner, Drew was so calm she talked her self out of her romantic idea. Walking to the music venue, Drew stopped amongst the glittering holiday lights of Downtown Gainesville and got down on one knee. With excitement and giddiness pounding in her heart, Hilary was too overcome with joy to speak, but finally kneeled down with her, now partner for life, and said “yes” as she kissed Drew.
Popping out of hiding, was Drew’s bother, Josh (now one of Drew’s Best Men!) to take pictures of this special moment. Hilary and Drew celebrated their engagement over cocktails and music at their favorite Gainesville bar, Kin. Their best Christmas present to date is that of receiving a fiancé!
