James and Alyssa’s story starts with a classic setup: Alyssa’s sister had a feeling they’d be a great match and introduced them at a casual get-together. James was charming, Alyssa was skeptical—and firmly refused to give out her number. (She’s a woman of mystery, okay?) Enter fate… and Halloween. A few weeks later, they crossed paths again at a Halloween party. Alyssa showed up as a terrifying doll—fake blood, creepy makeup, the whole horror movie vibe. James came as Clark Kent, ready to save the day. Despite Alyssa looking like she’d crawled out of a haunted attic, James struck up a conversation. (We’re still not sure if it was bravery or curiosity.) Somehow, it worked—they talked and laughed all night, and this time, numbers were exchanged. One date turned into many, and before they knew it, they were falling for each other—despite living 93 miles apart. At the time, Alyssa was out east on Long Island and James was in Staten Island, but that didn’t stop him from making the trip (often) to see her. Ninety-three miles each way, fueled by podcasts, playlists, and love. The long drives quickly became a routine part of their story—proof that when it’s right, the distance doesn’t matter. Eventually, their journey took them even further: a new adventure in Arizona. It was a big leap—a new job, a new city, and a 40-pound commitment in the form of their beloved beagle, Jax. While he was definitely the wild card, those desert years ended up being a time where Alyssa and James grew even closer. Whether they were hiking through cacti or learning how to build a life full of joy, teamwork, and late-night grocery runs, they discovered just how much better everything is with each other. (Even when Jax occasionally chewed that life to pieces.) After nearly two years of sunshine, saguaros, and lessons in love and patience—mostly from each other, sometimes from their dog—they made the move back to New York. Alyssa missed her family, bagels, and not sweating in November. James may have needed a little extra convincing (okay, a lot of pizza), but in the end, they both knew home was calling. On a trip not long after, James pulled off a masterclass in misdirection, crafting a very convincing story about why a proposal definitely wasn’t happening. So when he got down on one knee at a beautiful beachfront dinner, Alyssa was completely shocked. Her first words were, “You tricked me!” — followed, of course, by a very enthusiastic “Yes!” Now, after years of laughter, long drives, Halloween parties, desert detours, and daily reminders that love is equal parts fun and effort—they can’t wait to make it official and party with all of you!