Our Love Story: Sofia & Lee

March 7th, 2026

Sofia Elizabeth Starne and Christopher "Lee" Leps began their journey together as high school friends during the summer of 2018. Their bond was instant, but it was Lee's unwavering persistence that turned their friendship into something more. By January 2019, Lee had set his sights on winning Sofia’s heart, and after weeks of persuasion and sweet gestures, Sofia said yes, making their relationship official on March 7th, 2019. At the time, Sofia was a sophomore, and Lee was a junior, starting what would become a love story for the ages.

Their relationship flourished through the ups and downs of high school and the transition to college life. After Lee’s senior year, he chose to stay home and attend community college, a decision shaped in part by the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Meanwhile, Sofia focused on her goal of attending Baylor University, where she officially committed in October 2020. Lee followed her lead the next summer, joining her at Baylor in August 2021.

During this time, Sofia and Lee welcomed a furry addition to their lives—a Blue Heeler Black Lab puppy named Beans, who quickly became the heart of their little family. Together, they embraced the college experience, making memories, building friendships, and thriving academically. Sofia fulfilled a lifelong dream by pledging Kappa Kappa Gamma, but by the summer of 2022, she felt the Lord calling her in a new direction. With faith in her heart, Sofia transferred to Oklahoma State University, and Lee decided to follow, once again proving his commitment to their journey together.

Their time at OSU brought new adventures. Lee joined Lambda Chi Alpha, and both Sofia and Lee found their communities and a sense of belonging that would shape the next chapter of their lives. Amidst the hustle of school and social life, their love continued to grow, rooted in shared dreams and unwavering support for each other.

In October 2023, they planned a trip to Philadelphia to see two of their favorite artists, Zach Bryan and Turnpike Troubadours. Little did Sofia know, this trip would become even more meaningful. By January 2024, Lee had decided he would propose to Sofia during their trip, taking her to one of her favorite places—New York City.

After graduating in May 2024 with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Management Science and Information Systems and a minor in Computer Science, Lee spent the summer planning the perfect proposal. On August 6th, 2024, under the glow of the New York City skyline at Hernshead Rock in Central Park, Lee got down on one knee and asked Sofia to be his forever. Her enthusiastic “yes” was followed by a celebratory dinner at Tavern on the Green and a magical weekend exploring the city as an engaged couple.

When the time came to set their wedding date, it felt like divine intervention. March 7th, the anniversary of the day they started dating, fell perfectly into place. Now, seven years to the day after their love story began, Sofia and Lee will say "I do" in front of their family and friends.

As they look forward to their wedding day, Sofia and Lee are filled with gratitude for the love, faith, and friendship that have guided their journey. Their story is one of perseverance, joy, and blessings—proof that when love is patient and kind, it truly thrives.