It started when Thomas liked one of Bradley’s photos on the dating app Hinge. They had their first date at Thomas’s self proclaimed favorite first date spot, Carrigan’s. Bradley and Thomas bonded over working in health care and their love for live music. The two shared stories about concerts, festivals, and venues, including The Nick.

Following their first date, Thomas left the country for a month. He went to Sweden to hear his good friend, Joel, speak at a conference. While he was gone, he thought he “blew it” by disappearing. Thomas thought about reaching out but didn’t know how to start the conversation.

While on her way to work a few weeks later, Bradley passed The Nick and saw that it was flooded with people who appeared to be enjoying themselves (read drunk). This reminded Bradley of Thomas and their first date so she reached out to him. Thomas was relieved.

Thomas and Bradley became close to inseparable. Whenever Thomas was able to be away from the hospital, he was with Bradley. They enjoyed cooking together (ask Thomas about the disastrous vegan pizza), going on walks, and, of course, concerts. The two discovered a mutual love for fantasy novels and quiet nights in with wine and cheese. It wasn’t long before they knew this was forever.

On Sunday, November 19 Thomas was adamant the pair went to church. Following church, Thomas requested a walk. And not just any walk, Thomas wanted to go to the Botanical Gardens “because walking around our neighborhood is getting old”. Bradley attributed the nervous energy surrounding Thomas as fellowship jitters. Little did she know, Thomas had arranged for both of their families to meet in the gardens for a post-proposal celebration including champagne and petit fours. When Thomas got down on one knee, Sophie managed to capture the moment from nearby bushes. Saying yes was the easiest decision Bradley had ever made.