Matt and Cissy met the way many modern couples do—on the dating app Hinge. In September 2024, both had experienced their fair share of less-than-stellar dates that left them with plenty of entertaining stories. Their story began when they matched and Cissy struck up a conversation about one of Matt’s goals for the year: running a half marathon. Matt enthusiastically shared that he hoped to run the Philadelphia Half Marathon, which was especially fitting since Cissy had already signed up for the race. After quickly hitting it off online, Matt asked Cissy out that same week. On Wednesday, September 4, 2024, they met for drinks at a beer garden on South Street. What was supposed to be a casual first date turned into three effortless hours of conversation. They talked about their careers, values, faith, love of family and friends, and their shared passion for football and sports. The connection was undeniable, and both left knowing there was something special between them. The next day, Matt told his coworkers it was the best first date he had ever been on. Meanwhile, Cissy’s coworkers noticed that her already bright smile seemed even brighter. The rest, as they say, is history. Over the months that followed, Matt and Cissy built a life filled with adventure, laughter, and meaningful moments. They introduced each other to family and friends, explored new places, and created countless memories together. Cissy encouraged Matt to step outside of his comfort zone by getting a passport and traveling to Mexico, Canada, North Carolina, and Boston. She introduced him to the other side of the state including the “yinzer” culture. In return, Matt introduced Cissy to some of his favorite local treasures, including the unique culture of Delco and the charm of Wildwood, NJ, his favorite beach destination. In their first year and a half together, they celebrated plenty of memorable victories and defeats. Cissy watched her Ohio State Buckeyes defeat Matt’s Notre Dame Fighting Irish in the National Championship, while Matt got to celebrate the Eagles winning the Super Bowl that same year. Running remained a special part of their relationship. The Philadelphia Half Marathon—the race that first sparked their conversation—became their first race together. They later completed two more half marathons, one in Harrisburg and another in Cissy’s home city of Pittsburgh. Their faith also became a cornerstone of their relationship. Matt began attending Citylight Church with Cissy, and together they joined a Center City Bible Group, deepening both their faith and their Christian community. Then, on February 14, 2026, Matt planned a romantic evening at their favorite restaurant in Philadelphia. As they walked back to Cissy’s house, they turned onto Delancey Street—one of their favorite streets in the city. Waiting there were their family and friends. Surrounded by the people they love most, Matt got down on one knee and asked Cissy to marry him. She said yes. As family and friends cheered around them, the next chapter of their story began. Matt and Cissy are so excited to celebrate this next season of life with the people they love most. Thank you for being part of their journey—they can't wait to celebrate their special day with you!