Mr. and Mrs. Hechtman

The universe had been quietly writing this love story long before Ariel and Josh’s paths crossed. They didn’t just meet — their souls collided, instantly recognizing what they had been searching for all along. As they fell in love, it became clear they fit together effortlessly, like two halves finally finding their home. For many years, Josh was navigating the long, unpredictable nights of an NYPD patrol officer in Brooklyn, while Ariel was deep in the whirlwind of earning her doctorate and juggling two jobs. Many evenings, after leaving work in Wantagh, Ariel would drive to the Long Beach boardwalk to unwind and dream. She imagined a life by the water — and hoped she’d meet someone who shared that same love. Little did she know, as she strolled past Josh’s condo, he was asleep inside after a night shift — dreaming of a love he had yet to find. They must’ve “crossed paths” so many times. Without realizing it, their lives were running parallel, waiting for the moment they would finally meet. On April 24, 2024 — the one-year anniversary of Ariel’s doctorate defense — she matched with Josh on Hinge. A date already etched in her heart suddenly became something even greater: the day fate stepped in. Months earlier, she had engraved “April 24” on a special ring, never imagining it would also mark the start of their love story. A few days of texts and a laughter-filled phone call led to their first date at Hilltop on May 11, 2024. From the moment they met, the spark was undeniable. Conversation flowed like they’d known each other forever. By the second date, Josh solidified plans by saying, “me, you, and tacos” — a promise that led to a first kiss outside of Dirty Taco. Their third date in Long Beach was just as unforgettable: sushi at Nagahama, Marvel ice cream, and a kiss under the stars. That night, Josh told himself, “I’m going to marry her,” while Ariel typed in a note on her phone, “I’m going to marry this man.” The last year and a half together has been a perfect mix of adventure and comfort. Together, they traveled to Newport RI, California, Disney, Italy, Boston, Montauk, and Lancaster, and loved every season at their home in Long Beach. They have enjoyed brewery dates, Yankees games, and Jones Beach concerts, ate sushi on Saturday nights, spent countless days on the beach, and took long walks and bike rides along the boardwalk. At home, they found joy in the simple things — cozy nights binge-watching Dexter and Sopranos, cooking dinner side by side, dancing in the kitchen, cheering on their sports teams, blasting pop-punk in the car, and even turning food shopping into a fun outing every Sunday. With every moment, their bond has grown deeper, revealing the heart of their love: they’re not just partners, but true best friends — proof that when you know, you just know.

Then came Friday, August 22, 2025. From the moment they woke up, the day felt magical. Ariel didn’t know what was coming, but Josh did. For weeks, he had been secretly planning — working with a jeweler to create her ring, meeting a professional photographer to plan every detail, and rethinking the perfect spot after a storm. That evening, after dinner at Roc & Olive, they strolled to the beach like they always did. Ariel noticed a photographer taking pictures of his wife and commented on how sweet it was — not realizing it was for her. Moments later, Josh led her down to the sand. With the air warm, waves crashing, and sunset wrapping the day in gold, he asked her to marry him. The photographer captured every second, and they celebrated with ice cream on the boardwalk. Pure magic.

Josh and Ariel are so looking forward to a lifetime of love, laughter, and endless sunsets together. On July 5, 2026, they’ll celebrate their love surrounded by family and friends at The Watermill! For a couple whose love story has always felt like fireworks, there couldn’t be a more perfect date for a night of Red, White, and "I Do!"