We're Getting Married!

Josh and I met on 1/14/22 while he was working as a Firefighter EMT, and I a Deputy Sheriff. We both remember approaching each other a little differently (lol), but we agree that it ended with Josh asking for my number. Once I gave it to him, we texted almost every day. Josh asked me on a date several times before I finally agreed to go out with him on 1/31/22. Our first date was at a restaurant called World of Beer. We met at dinnertime and stayed talking and laughing until the restaurant had to close. From that point on, we were almost inseparable. Josh and I continued going on dates, getting to know each other, and talking every single day for six months. On 6/11/22, Josh took me to one of his favorite restaurants, Bahama Breeze. In between eating our meals, he asked me to officially be his girlfriend. It didn’t take me long to say yes, as I was already falling in love with him. Over the years, Josh and I have shared countless adventures, vacations, and experiences that have helped us grow and love each other more with each passing day. We became best friends, partners, and each other’s safe place. Whether it’s taking naps after long shifts or flying off to places we’ve never been before, we love doing life side by side. Who would have guessed that one meeting would turn into a love this deep? What started with laughter, long conversations, and an unexpected connection turned into a forever kind of love. We are so grateful we found each other and cannot wait to continue choosing one another for the rest of our lives!

On August 23, 2025, my brother convinced me to take a trip to the Botanical Gardens near St. Pete, claiming his wife had suddenly taken up gardening. I was suspicious (she’d never mentioned plants before, and my brother has terrible allergies), but I went along with it anyway. We got dressed up and drove down in the pouring rain, only to find the gardens temporarily closed due to the storm. Instead, we spent a few hours at a nearby bar before heading back to my house. As I walked up to my front door, I heard noises inside—strange, considering Josh was supposed to be working that day. When I opened the door, I found a trail of rose petals and candles leading into the living room. There was Josh, surrounded by flowers, a sign that read “Pretty Girl” (his nickname for me), a framed photo of us, and my favorite drink! I walked up to Josh and hugged him. He then got down on one knee, holding a GORGEOUS ring, and asked me to marry him. Of course, I said yes! What I didn’t know was that Josh had called out of work that morning but left the house like normal so I wouldn’t suspect anything. He had originally planned to propose at the Botanical Gardens, but when the rain ruined his plans, he quickly had to come up with a plan B. While my brother kept us busy, Josh rushed home to set up the most perfect surprise!

Joshua Rife was born in Honolulu, Hawaii and lived there until he was five years old. Josh then moved to Florida and bounced around the Tampa Bay Area. Josh had a few different occupations until he decided to go to the Fire Academy in 2019. Since then, Josh has worked extremely hard to get promoted from Firefighter, EMT, Paramedic, to now Driver Engineer!  Josh absolutely loves movies, TV shows (especially anime), playing video games, paddle boarding, traveling, and experiencing new things. Josh has a sweet tooth and is always in the mood for treats (he always asks for extra when I’m making them for my small business lol).  Josh is an amazing father to his beautiful daughter, Rose. The way he centers his life around her, plays with her, and loves her unconditionally made me see the kind of man he truly is. Josh has so much love to give and he loves so deeply. Josh proves how much he dedicates his life to Rose and I every single day.  Josh is the most committed, resilient, lighthearted, passionate, and loving man I know (let’s not forget extremely handsome)! Whatever stressors come throughout the day or in our lives, he never fails to try to make me smile every day. There are so many things I love about Josh but if I had to pick one favorite characteristic, I would definitely pick his dedication to me. I have never felt more loved or seen than by Josh. Since our first date, I have never questioned or doubted how he felt about me.   I’ve never been one to be attracted to a man in a suit but I’m proud to say I’m marrying a smoking hot Firefighter 😏🔥!

Crystal Claudio was supposedly born in the Bronx, New York—but what she doesn’t realize yet is that she was actually born in the beautiful state of Florida 😄. Crystal has worked in several occupations that ultimately led her to becoming a deputy of the law. She holds a master’s degree in Criminal Justice with a specialization in Behavioral Studies. She is, without question, the smartest person I’ve ever met—and she continues to grow and impress me every single day. Crystal is absolutely obsessed with NCIS and has watched it so much she practically knows every episode word for word. She’s also an incredible cook and baker, spending hours creating the most amazing dishes and desserts—which I happily take full advantage of! Crystal is strong, independent, and beautiful. She makes both Rose and I feel incredibly blessed to have her in our lives. She makes me a better person, and I learn from her strength, determination, and confidence every day. I cannot wait for the day I get to say “I do” to the most beautiful woman I’ve ever had the honor of meeting.