Nicole's initial encounter with Matthew at Sydness Architects was a serendipitous twist of fate, an unexpected collision of paths within the confines of a mundane elevator ride. As she stepped in, nerves tingling with anticipation for her job interview, she found herself face to face with Matthew, a moment that kickstarted their journey. Their first exchange, amidst the brief elevator ascent, sparked a conversation that transcended the formalities of a typical workplace encounter. Their connection was immediate, their conversation flowing effortlessly despite the fleeting moments before the doors slid open. Nicole left the job interview and texted her girlfriends about the “cute guy” that would be her future co-worker. As they worked more and more together on projects, their friendship grew. Nicole's artistic flair and Matthew's architectural prowess interwove seamlessly, igniting a partnership that surpassed professional boundaries. Their friendship burgeoned amidst brainstorming sessions, project meetings, and shared lunches where laughter echoed through the office corridors. Their bond, initially rooted in mutual admiration for each other's creative skills, grew stronger with every project they collaborated on. As time went on, their shared experiences, late-night brainstorming, and unwavering support for each other paved the way for a love that bloomed unexpectedly yet beautifully amidst the blueprints and design concepts they meticulously crafted together.

For Nicole and Matthew, their journey toward forever took a turn on June 10th, 2023, when Matthew orchestrated an awe-inspiring proposal that he had been planning for months. He knew that she was the one he wanted to spend the rest of his life with, and he couldn't wait to ask her to be his wife. He wanted the moment to be perfect, so he had meticulously crafted a plan that he hoped would sweep her off her feet. Matthew devised a scheme to create a day Nicole would cherish forever. He orchestrated a clandestine girls' day for her surrounded by those she holds dear. For Nicole, who thought she was celebrating her birthday a few days early, it was a day that started like any other, unaware of the magical surprise being set in motion. With the assistance of Nicole's brother, Anthony, and sister, Christina, along with the Matthew's parents, Brenda and Tony, a picturesque setting was crafted. The pièce de résistance stood tall—a collection of large, meticulously crafted metal letters that spelled out "Will you marry me." Amidst the anticipation and beating hearts, a long red carpet adorned with delicate rose petals led Nicole to the moment that would etch itself into the fabric of their shared story. Expecting an early birthday dinner, Nicole arrived at the designated spot where her brother awaited her, guiding her down the crimson path toward the breathtaking scene carefully assembled by Matt and his family (old and new). As she walked, with tears in her eyes, the magnitude of the moment unfolded before her—the waning sun filled the sky with rich colors of orange, red, pink, and violet. The Manhattan backdrop mirrored the gleam in Matthew's eyes as he stood beside the poignant declaration of his love. Time stood suspended as Matthew poured out his heart, culminating in the pivotal question that hung in the air. With tears of joy glistening in her eyes and a heart overflowing with love, Nicole said yes, setting off a chorus of applause and cheers from their loved ones hiding nearby, witnessing the culmination of a love story that had woven its way through their lives.