Katie and Alex matched on Hinge in October of 2022 (I know, so 21st century). After a few weeks of chatting, they scheduled their first date to be on November 4th at the Parlor Pizzeria. It didn't take much to make it clear to both parties that there was mutual interest in pursuing each other more seriously. They continued seeing each other regularly and talking everyday, building each others trust, respect and most importantly, a friendship. Only a few short months into knowing each other, they went on one of their favorite dates—ice skating at an outdoor rink the week before Christmas. It was after this date that Alex knew he wanted Katie to be his girlfriend. On New Years Eve, Alex boldly threw the idea of a Valentine's Day trip to Katie, which she excitedly welcomed. As they continued growing their bond, they discovered a staple activity: picnic dates at the park. After becoming "official" on January 8th, 2023, Alex and Katie planned their trip to take a train to the Grand Canyon. It was on this trip that they said "I love you" to each other for the first time. Fast forward to April, the two love birds went to the Flower Fields in Carlsbad, California for Katie's birthday, where they discussed the real possibility of marriage for the first time and what their future might look like. A few months later, to celebrate 6 months of being official, they looked at engagement rings. Unbeknownst to Katie, it was that same day that Alex purchased her ring, knowing he was ready to ask her to marry him as soon as the time was right. For 8 long months, Alex had to keep one of the biggest secrets of his life. Remember those park dates mentioned earlier? Well on March 16th, 2024, Alex planned a park date, promising to take Katie out to a nice dinner after. She had some speculation that she might get engaged that day, but couldn't be sure as she had no evidence, just her gut feeling. But, sure enough, Alex proposed, Katie said yes, and the final surprise of the night came with a catered dinner at Alex's parents house which included Katie's family, her best friend Shannon, Alex's family and his best friend Joey. Now, Katie and Alex are excited to start the next chapter of their life together surrounded by the people who love and support them the most.