Like many modern love stories these days, ours started with a swipe on Hinge. At the time, Marisa was traveling as a respiratory therapist on assignment in Missouri, and after a little messaging back and forth we decided to meet in person and see if the connection was real. Our first date was May 26, 2023, in Joplin, Missouri. The plan was simple: Mexican food and a walk in the park. What we didn’t plan on was how easy everything felt. Conversation flowed, the walk lasted longer than expected, and by the end of the night we both knew we wanted to see each other again. Since Marisa was traveling for work, our relationship started with a bit of adventure built in. We met every other weekend in Kansas City, slowly but naturally building something special. The first couple of years came with some ups and downs, including a year of long-distance while Marisa worked in Arkansas—but we kept showing up for each other. Eventually we decided it was time to be in the same place. Moving in together came with a few house renovation projects, which turned out to be the ultimate relationship test—but we survived the paint, projects, and chaos. Over the past year we’ve spent our time traveling, cruising, exploring, and laughing our way through life together. Then on November 30, 2025, David proposed on a beautiful snowy day in the Rocky Mountains—which basically combines all of Marisa’s favorite things. It was the perfect moment… and of course, she said yes. Now we can’t wait to celebrate the next chapter of our adventure with all of you.