We met at a block party on the 4th of July. Stacy wasn’t set on going, but she eventually did, and as fortune had it, that party was on Michael’s block. Although we did not speak much, something was pulling our hearts closer. An invisible string, which had led us through high school together without crossing paths, was connecting us. Fate brought us together on August 3, 2019. Drawn to Michael’s charm and humor, Stacy fell head over heels. We bonded over music, and Michael even brought Stacy food when she said she did not eat anything that night. That night, Stacy for the first time also fell in love with Michael’s mom’s Mac and Cheese. Stacy then agreed to keep the night going, joining Michael for french fries, iced teas, and milkshakes, at Roll N’ Roaster. Though it wasn’t an “official” first date, this extra time together watered a now budding seed. Our friendship blossomed: we spent time at the beach, going to Coney Island, and binge watching all three seasons of Stranger Things on the backyard projector. And on August 20, 2019, our relationship became official. On September 1, 2022, we moved into our first apartment together in Arlington, Virginia. Despite the chaos of law school exams and term papers, our love grew stronger. We filled this chapter of our lives cooking together, watching movies, and enjoying many firsts, like baseball games and concerts. On July 9, 2024, amidst a heatwave, and after dancing together in the kitchen, Michael got down on one knee as the song “Buy Dirt” played. Michael waited for the part that said, “find the One you can’t live without, get a ring let your knee hit the ground.” Michael was nothing if not a romantic. In that moment, following one of life’s small moments, we made a heartfelt promise to spend our lives together. Pledging to be life partners, we expressed our love and commitment to one another, and vowed to continue to build a life together. Our story, we think, is a testament to the idea that the deepest connections can form when you least expect them. Sometimes fate conspires to bring you exactly what you were looking for and then some, delivering what was forever and always meant for you. We can't wait to celebrate this wonderful occasion, sharing life’s sweetest moments with loved ones like you!