Maria and Nick met through mutual friends. They both believed they were attending a house party hosted by dear friends, Colton and LeAnn Ott, but to their surprise it was just the four of them! Nick arrived only two hours late that night and Maria felt he was not interested in her. Maria was shocked when Nick asked for her phone number at the end of the evening but that is where their evolving love story began to blossom. A week later, Maria and Nick went for a romantic walk down the Sandusky County Bike Trail and out for dinner at The Depot in Fremont. From there, they have continued to choose each other everyday to keep their love flourishing.

To celebrate the beginning of Thanksgiving break from school, Maria had a relaxing deep tissue massage and Nick let her pick anywhere she wanted to go to dinner that night. While eating dinner at Bluto's Hometown Tavern in Norwalk, they had insightful conversations about their future. Little did Maria know, Nick had bigger plans for the evening. Upon returning to Nick’s house, Nick began unloading Maria’s car while she conveniently used the restroom. Maria immediately changed into her pajamas. Nick questioned her outfit change to which she responded, “It’s not like we are getting engaged tonight!”. They were engaged five minutes later.