Like many modern love stories, ours began with a dating app—Hinge. Nikki had just redownloaded the app while apartment hunting and considering a move to SC with her dog, Paako. Dating wasn’t a priority, but she figured a few light conversations (and maybe a free dinner or two) wouldn’t hurt. On day one, she matched with Steven Surgeoner, whose opening line was: “You have the most beautiful smile I’ve ever seen.” It worked. After some profile “research” (yes, she zoomed in on the dog pics), Nikki replied. Their first date was at Sly Fox in West Reading—pizza, beers, and easy conversation. Sensing Steven wanted to keep the night going (but was too shy to say so), Nikki suggested Barley Mow for cocktails. They talked like old friends, and when Steven walked her to her car and kissed her goodnight, it felt right. A week after, Nikki was traveling for a rewards trip for work to Hawaii. Despite the time difference, Steven stayed in touch. One night, Nikki called him at 2 a.m.—and he answered, half asleep but happy to hear her voice. That effort meant everything. When she got home, Steven told her he didn’t want to use Hinge anymore—he wanted to be official. As things got serious, Nikki met Steven’s family and was welcomed with open arms. When his brother Clint and now-wife Rachel invited her to their wedding, it was a surprise—but a meaningful one. Dancing the night away with Steven and meeting a lot of his friends & family only deepened their connection. Steven didn’t just win Nikki’s heart—he won over her parents, too. On one of his early visits, he spotted a plug dangling off the gazebo wall. Nikki shrugged, “It’s been like that forever.” But Steven, being an electrician, couldn’t resist the current situation. He showed up next time with tools and quietly fixed it. No one asked—he just did it. That moment sparked more than just electricity—it earned him instant brownie points and a permanent spot at family dinners. Then came football talk. Nikki’s dad was thrilled Steven was an Eagles fan (GO BIRDS!), even if he wasn’t sure how things would play out with his own love for Penn State (WE ARE!) and Nikki’s growing affection for Alabama (ROLL TIDE!) thanks to Steven. Now, Nikki roots for both—and her dad and Steven never stop talking about The Birds. Nikki eventually shifted her apartment search from SC to something more local and found a cozy spot in Ephrata. Of course, once she moved in, Steven was basically a full-time resident. It just felt natural. Their little apartment quickly became their first home—filled with laughter, late-night talks, and everyday moments that built a life side by side. Just days after moving in, they flew to Utah for Nikki’s marathon. Steven, who rarely traveled and wasn’t a fan of flying, wanted to be there to support her. And he was so glad he went. They explored national parks, hiked incredible trails, and shared moments that felt like scenes from a movie. They’re a perfect match—not just because they support each other, but because they share the same values: love for family, loyalty, and a deep appreciation for dogs (Steven’s dad Jim lovingly calls Nikki “Mother of Paako”). Whether it’s a good day or a tough one, being together is the reset button. Somehow, just being in each other’s presence turns stress into laughter and ordinary moments into something worth celebrating. After nearly a year in their apartment, they began house hunting and found their first home. And on a quiet, meaningful day in March—Ash Wednesday—Steven asked Nikki to marry him. Because nothing says forever like a day known for ashes, reflection… and now, a ring. From a dating app to dancing at weddings, hiking in Utah, building a home, and falling in love—our story is one of adventure, laughter, and unwavering devotion. And it’s only just beginning.