During the spring of 2019, we met during the final stretch of senior year at Furman University in Greenville, SC. Through mutual friends, Joe asked Alex to a fraternity function in Folly Beach, SC. While there was an instant connection, we knew we’d be starting new chapters in different cities – Joe in Charlotte, NC and Alex in New York City. Even from afar, we kept in touch and visited each other a few times. Fast forward to early 2020, and the world turned upside down. The pandemic brought Alex back to the southeast (and to the same region as Joe). We started visiting each other, turning uncertain times into something unexpectedly meaningful. In the five years to follow, we built our life together in Charlotte, NC - a city that has truly become our home. From setting up our first apartment to exploring local restaurants, weekend walks through Freedom Park, and discovering all the hidden gems the city has to offer, Charlotte has become the backdrop for so many of our favorite memories. We even became “paw-rents” to our favorite little pug, Luna, who’s been known to join in on all of our adventures. On October 11, 2024, Joe surprised Alex at Folly Beach with the perfect engagement on the beach. The same place, where they connected for the first time 4 years prior. After she said yes, Joe organized the perfect weekend with both families and friends celebrating around the Charleston area! We can’t wait to start this next chapter together, with all of you by our side!