Who knew that a match on Hinge would turn into the best thing that could ever happen for both Patrick and Gabrielle. As Gabby drove to meet Patrick at Carolina Ale House for their first date over two years ago, she remembers feeling nervous. She didn't know if he would match the person she had been communicating with online, if they would connect, or if it would be just a complete waste of time. However, she walked away from the date feeling pretty happy. Patrick seemed nice, he matched who he said he was, and they had a solid conversation. And if that was all it ever turned out to be, she was thankful to have met someone who seemed like a genuinely good person.

As time went on, the two continued to talk and go on dates, but Gabby already knew in the back of her head that she was moving to Tennessee for graduate school. The chances of someone wanting to build something long distance were not always high, and she didn’t even think that it would be something Patrick would have considered. She thought it would probably just naturally fizzle out, but even after she moved he still continued to reach out - and something in her told her it would be stupid to let long distance get in the way. Gabby went on and moved to Tennessee and Patrick accepted a job in Oklahoma, and yet their feelings for each other grew stronger despite being in different time zones. Pat asked Gabby to be his girlfriend in October of 2019, despite the fact that they didn’t live in the same city, and would only see each other for at most 3 days a month. They always say if you’re going to do long distance, make sure you do it with the right person. Gabby and Pat both in their hearts knew that this was something they wanted to make work - no matter what it took. Gabby says she will forever be grateful for the way Patrick made her feel so loved and seen when he was miles and miles away. The coach in Patrick always preached that they were a team, and they would be a team no matter how bright the sun shined, or how hard it rained.

What is interesting about the person that God has for you is that he has an understanding beyond belief of who you need. Gabby always describes Pat as the solid yacht in the hardest of storms - he is going to be cool, solid, and able to move through the water with such strength and tenacity that it is admirable to watch him. Pat describes Gabby as having a heart so big it is what allows her to connect with absolutely everyone she meets, and make anyone feel so deeply seen and loved. Patrick is peace when the world can pull Gabby high or low. Gabby can’t eat leftovers for more than 2 nights in a row, Patrick could eat the same thing, EVERY NIGHT. Patrick is objective where Gabby can be subjective, Gabby is the social butterfly where Patrick is relaxed and chill. As different as they can be, they both are God-fearing, authentic, loving individuals who will do anything to make sure the other person is okay. They both will go above and beyond to help others succeed, and at the end of the day try to always approach each day with a grateful heart. Their likes, dislikes, imperfections, values, and so much more make them both who they are - and who they are is what makes them perfect for each other. On May 8th, 2021 Patrick asked Gabby to spend forever with him - and it was the easiest Y E S of her life. Surrounded by family and friends, the two could not have been more excited. The amount of love they felt, made it a moment they will never forget. Who would have guessed that a Hinge app would lead to both of them finding their soulmate, but you can bet they are forever grateful for that first date at Carolina Ale House. On July 2nd, 2022 the two will become one - and they can’t wait to celebrate with you.