The Donovan’s

It all started with a few taps on a screen. Gabriella first spotted Ryan on a dating app, and something about his smile caught her attention. She couldn’t help herself; she went full 21st-century bold and decided to strategically spam his Instagram with likes, hoping he’d notice. It worked. A few notifications later, Ryan slid into her messages with the perfect line: “If that wasn’t a mistake, you should hit me up.” That message sparked a connection that quickly grew into something real. From their very first conversations, it was clear they shared an easy chemistry, laughter, curiosity, and that feeling you get when someone just gets you. Over the next six years, they built a life together filled with love, laughter, and a few big adventures. They made it through the challenges of Covid side by side, proving that their relationship could handle anything. They added a furry new family member, their beloved puppy Dallas, and eventually made a house a home together in Wilmington. Then came the moment, one that Gabriella didn’t see coming. On St. Patrick’s Day 2025, with friends and family gathered in Dewey Ryan had a secret. He had only had the ring for three days, but he couldn’t wait any longer. Surrounded by the people who meant the most to them, he got down on one knee and asked Gabriella to marry him. She said yes to forever, to love, to the life they’d been building all along. Now, as they look ahead to the next chapter, Gabriella and Ryan’s story continues one built on a spark that started with a few Instagram likes and has grown into a lifetime of love.