Our adventure began in January 2023, when our paths crossed on Hinge. For our very first date, Mia, an avid climber, "showed Derek the ropes" at a climbing gym – it was his first time, and a memorable way to start! Mia's initial thought was that Derek seemed shy, which made his unexpected first kiss all the more delightful. Derek, on the other hand, was instantly charmed by Mia's infectious smile, laugh, and vibrant energy. He soon got to return the favor on our second date, planning a golfing excursion, only to be playfully surprised when Mia arrived with her own set of clubs! It wasn't long before Derek met Mia's parents on their third date, signaling that this was something truly special. Since then, our love story has taken us across oceans, creating unforgettable memories together on international travels through Spain, Portugal, and Italy. Our journey together reached a beautiful milestone when Derek proposed on August 16th, 2025, at one of Mia's most cherished spots, Shorelands beach in Madison, CT. We can't wait to continue building our incredible life together!