A few years after college, both found themselves back in their hometowns near Cleveland, Ohio — Matt returning from Pittsburgh and Alyssa from Cincinnati. Like any modern love story, they connected on Hinge… and immediately hit it off with effortless conversation that felt like they’d known each other forever. Before their first date, Matt sent Alyssa his number — and Alyssa, being Alyssa, of course did a full Google search before meeting him in person. To her surprise, she discovered Matt’s Facebook profile… and realized they were already friends. With Matt attending Chardon High School and Alyssa going to rival West Geauga, they grew up running in the same circles and hometown spaces — just never at the same time. Matt planned their first date at one of Cleveland’s best cocktail bars — Cloak & Dagger — a spot that would quickly become their spot. It holds a special place in their hearts for so many milestones — their first Valentine’s Day, their post-engagement celebration, and even their engagement photos. From that first night, it was clear this was something different. “When you know, you know” — and they both just knew. Their first “I love you” came during the Great Lakes Christmas Ale Tapping, surrounded by the excitement of a big Guardians playoff win — a very on-brand Cleveland love story moment. From there, life filled up with shared experiences and new traditions: Family vacations to Aruba and Hilton Head Island ✈️ Fish fries, family clam bakes, and holiday celebrations 🦀 Cheering on Cleveland sports together ⚾ Cooper’s Hawk Wine Club date nights 🍷 And celebrating the love stories of friends at countless weddings 💍 Along the way, Matt bought a house — and Alyssa got to channel her inner Joanna Gaines, turning it into a home where they’ll continue creating memories for years to come. As their life grew, so did the feeling that they were ready for the next chapter. The proposal came through one of their friends’ favorite traditions that they decided to try — monthly “surprise dates,” where one plans a full mystery day for the other. Matt took the lead and crafted a full fake itinerary to throw Alyssa off. Stop one: One of Alyssa’s bucket-list breweries. Stop two: A walk to see the fall foliage at the Solstice Steps in Lakewood — a place within walking distance of Alyssa’s apartment where they frequently tried (and sometimes failed) to catch sunsets together. During that walk — surrounded by fall colors, memories, and the Cleveland skyline they loved — Matt got down on one knee and asked Alyssa to spend forever with him. She said yes 🤍 From sharing similar hometown roots… To rival schools… To Hinge reconnecting what life started years before… Their story proves that timing is everything — and the best love stories were written long before you even realized they began.