Bret and Matthew had both had their share of pain and disappointment in the love department so it was with some nervousness and apprehension that they both joined Bumble in 2018. They matched in August and quickly began getting to know each other. Since they each had week long vacations planned nearly back to back, Bret proposed a first date before Matthew's upcoming cruise and Matthew, on a whim, selected a restaurant called Copper. On first meeting, they each felt a connection during a nice dinner followed by a sweaty August evening walk through The Domain. It was supposed to be the only date before the back to back vacations, but Matthew decided to invite Bret to a game night that weekend and Bret cut short his lake day with friends to attend. That evening, they got to see each other in a social setting and both had a great night that deepened their connection. Matthew left for a cruise the next morning, but purchased the internet package because he couldn't stand to go four days without communicating with this amazing man. Upon Matthew's return, there were only a few days before Bret left for his cruise, but they found a time to meet up for a short trip to Target and a coffee at Starbucks. When Bret left on his cruise, he also purchased the internet package so they could continue to get to know each other uninterrupted. There were many heartwarming moments like Bret giving Matthew a 2018 penny to commemorate their first date at Copper or tracking down an old toy from Matthew's childhood. They also frequently surprised each other at work by sending flowers and snacks. It was obvious pretty early on that Bret and Matthew would marry and that it was only a matter of time. Before even a year was up, Matthew was looking for engagement rings, as Bret had made it clear early on that he was the one who would be proposed to! Matthew decided that a ring featuring copper would be appropriate and chose their annual December trip to Marble Falls as the right time.