A swipe right led to forever. We met on Bumble, but our first date in Tustin felt like a romantic comedy—equal parts hilarious and awkward. Ashley remembers meticulously splitting the food into two perfectly equal portions... while Fiona admits she was so nervous she barely touched her plate! We were both a bundle of nerves, but in different, complementary ways. It didn't matter. From that first evening, the easy laughter and connection made it clear: more than a date, we had found our best friend. That feeling of simply clicking has never faded, and every adventure since has only confirmed that we were meant to be each other's person.
Our first official date was on June 24, 2021, and it wasn't the candlelit dinner you might expect. Instead, we found ourselves at a drive-in. The movie playing on the screen? Honestly, we couldn't tell you. We were so wrapped up in conversation that the dialogue on screen was drowned out by our own. We spent the entire time laughing, talking, and getting to know each other, completely oblivious to whatever blockbuster was supposed to be the star of the night. It was the most perfect first date because the only thing that mattered was us.
Our relationship officially leveled up at our favorite spot: Huntington Beach. That day, we established what would become our summer ritual—setting up the car all cozy with treats like Chinese food, and simply enjoying the view and each other's company. As the sun began to set, we walked down to the water for a stunning view. When the bonfires were lit, Fiona made her quick escape. Ashley stayed behind, chatting with some new friends, but curiosity eventually led her back to the car. There, she found the sweetest surprise: the interior was glowing with twinkling lights, and a small, antique-looking wooden chest held a beautiful love note that finally popped the official question. Right there under the stars, we became girlfriends.