How We Met: A Hinge Love Story It all started on Hinge. After months of swiping left and right, Dee and Courtney’s profiles finally matched, and the connection was immediate. Their conversations flowed effortlessly, and before they knew it, they were planning their first date. Dee was nervous but excited, and Courtney was hopeful but curious. They decided to meet at The Continental, a trendy spot in Philadelphia known for its laid-back vibe and delicious small plates. When they met in person, it instantly felt as if they already knew each other. Dee immediately complimented Courtney’s style and said, "you're here to see me?" She couldn’t help but smile. The conversation was easy, laughter came naturally, and everything seemed to click. Over drinks and appetizers, they shared stories about their lives, but it was when they started talking about family that things took a funny twist. Dee mentioned that his mom, grandmother, and himself all shared the same birthday—March 15th. Courtney was floored. "Wait, that's my Mom's birthday too! That’s wild!" she exclaimed. “What are the odds?” Dee laughed, thinking it was just a quirky detail, as he began to ask more about her family, genuinely interested in getting to know Courtney’s world better. As the evening went on, Dee and Courtney found themselves talking about everything under the sun. They discovered common interests in music, food, and even their shared love for adventure. By the time the night ended, it was clear that they had made a real connection. They went through multiple servers and closed down the restaurant. Then, the night ended in embarrassing fashion for Dee. As the date winded down, he asked for Courtney's Instagram profile so he could follow her. He handed her his phone to enter her information. Courtney’s eyes widened in surprise, then burst out laughing. “Looks like you already have been on my profile,” she teased. Dee turned red (which is difficult for him lol), and he quickly clarified, “I just wanted to make sure you were real!” The awkwardness was brief, though, and they both found the moment endearing rather than off-putting. Fast forward a bit, and the chemistry between them only deepened. After a few years of dating, Dee knew he wanted to make Courtney his forever. He had been planning for a while, and one summer day in June, he knew it was the perfect time. He surprised Courtney in Rittenhouse Square after brunch with her friend. She was greeted by Dee, looking handsome as ever in a linen suit, as well as a a jazz band playing one of their songs. Dee got down on one knee and asked the most important question of his life: “Courtney, will you marry me?” Tears filled her eyes as she said yes, and just like that, their story came full circle—from a first date full of laughs to a proposal in the heart of Philly. The rest, as they say, is history.