We met at Rutgers University at the end of 2016. We were introduced by one of Brandon's fraternity brothers who inexplicably decided to play matchmaker that night—telling each of us that the other was interested, even though neither of us had any idea. We had run into each other before because he worked at the gym on Cook campus where I was living my sophomore year of nursing school. Though initial attraction had sparked, I still played hard to get. Even after an Instagram DM left on read, Brandon stayed persistent and patient. Eventually, I agreed to going to formal with him and we've been inseparable ever since. Brandon was actually the first to say "I love you" and we began dating in August of 2017. Over the last eight years, we have been through so much together - nursing school, Brandon's first master's program, and then PA school, and traveling from North Bergen to Freehold and back. All of life's highs and lows and everything in between. Through it all, we've grown stronger as a couple, building a love rooted in trust, laughter, and support. Brandon completely surprised and shocked me by proposing on my birthday in July of 2024 and through my happy tears, I told him the easiest yes I've ever said. It was a sweet and private moment on the beach with both of our families witnessing from the boardwalk. Now we are counting down the days until we get to say "I do” and as we step into this next chapter, we’re filled with gratitude and excitement—not only for the life we’re building together, but also for the chance to celebrate this moment with the people who mean the most to us.